Are PTDI grads more likely to get a better job after graduation? What are the benefits of going with a school that is PTDI certified?

I have been looking hard at training schools and have discovered that a good school does not have to be PTDI approved. All that a school needs to be PTDI approved is the money to pay for the designation. However, some trucking companies won't hire students out of non-PTDI driving schools.

While there are very good schools that are not PTDI, it has much more to do than paying a fee for the designation. There is a set curriculum and minimum hours that the school has to follow. It's more of a assurance that you're not going to a CDL mill where they push you out in 80 hours. As you said it does open doors to better companies that take new drivers. Almost all companies that hire students will take a PTDI student.

Right on!

I went to a PTDI school that gave you a 160 hour cert. for 24 hours of attendance. This school was on the approved list of most of the major carriers.

PTDI is a well respected curriculum in the industry.

Here's the link: PTDI

Very comprehensive, as noted, gives you a leg up for potential hiring.