CDL Training 101 | Your Guide to Truck Driver Training
Becoming a truck driver required a truck driver training. That job is one of the most stable and well-paying career options in the United States. However, before you get behind the wheel and set out to drive across the country, you need to complete your truck driver training and earn a commercial driver’s license, more commonly referred to as CDL.
If you already have a noncommercial driver’s license and a spotless driving record, you will most probably be eligible to enroll in a CDL school in your city. These schools offer different training programs, ranging from entry-level courses to refreshers, to help aspiring truckers receive their specialized driver’s licenses.
What Does Truck Driver Training Include?
The CDL training is an instructional program that usually comprises of classroom training, range training, and on-the-road training. Students must complete all of these modules to prepare for their CDL exam and obtain the appropriate license to drive a commercial vehicle.
Before we begin, please note that each truck driver training program is different from the other. For instance, some of the courses at CDL School in Michigan do not require experienced commercial drivers to attend classroom training. Therefore, please make sure to go through the student’s handbook provided by your selected truck driver school to find out details about each training program.
Classroom Training
During classroom training, experienced trainers provide prospective truckers with all the information and materials required to obtain a Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP). Students will need TIP for their behind-the-wheel or on-the-road training.
Here are some of the things students learn during classroom training:
- Introduction to over-the-road driving
- Road signs and safety regulations
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations requirements
- Personal health and safety
- Map reading and trip planning
- How to use electronic logs
- Time and speed management
- Fuel-saving and preventive maintenance
- Extreme driving conditions
- Environmental awareness
- Securing cargo properly
- Defensive driving
Range Training
The areas of focus for this part of the training include:
- Conducting a pre-trip safety inspection of the vehicle
- Truck or trailer maneuvering, as required by the state
On-the-Road Truck Driver Training
Once you have obtained your Temporary Instructional Permit, you can start your on-the-road CDL training.
During this part of the training, students get a chance to learn the following:
- Making left and right-hand turns
- Utilizing mirrors to reduce blind spots
- Intersection and railroad crossing
- Changing lanes while driving
After completing your training, you can appear for the CDL exam comprising written and practical tests.
CDL School in Michigan Can Help You Start Your Truck Driver Training
The CDL School in Michigan is the only nationally accredited truck driver school in the state, offering a range of training programs for fresh and experienced drivers alike. If you want to start your career as a trucker, our qualified trainers can help you achieve your dreams. We also have a stellar job placement record, which will certainly be beneficial for you.
For more information about truck driver training, please look at our admission requirements and career services. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to us.