What is a CDL?
A CDL is commonly known as a Commercial Driver's License. A CDL will allow you to legally operate any type of vehicle that has a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 lbs or over. Common types of equipment that a CDL will allow you to operate include tractor trailers, buses that are designed to carry 16 or more people , and tow trucks.
Why Get a CDL?
A CDL will increase your chances of finding employment. Employers value the employee that has a CDL. When people think of having a CDL they think of having to drive all over the country delivering loads but there are many possibilities to those with a CDL. There are many jobs that require a CDL that will allow you to be in your local area. Local beverage distributors provide jobs that allow drivers to be home at night on a regular basis. Construction companies also find a need for employees to have their CDL. Many people want to receive their CDL not with the intention of becoming a truck driver, but to make themselves more sellable to potential employers.
How Do I Get My CDL?
To receive your Class A CDL you must first pass three written tests. You can find the location of these test sites at your local driver's license bureau. The three written tests that you must pass are: General Knowledge, Combination Knowledge, and Air Brake Knowledge. Once you have passed these three written tests you will be issued your Class A CDL permit. This permit will allow you to operate a commercial vehicle on public roads as long as you are accompanied by an individual that has their Class A CDL. Having the permit will allow you to learn and grow accustomed to operating a large commercial vehicle in traffic. When you are ready to receive your CDL you must then schedule a driving test at the DMV. This driving test involves three tests: pre-trip inspection, skills test, and road test. The pre-trip inspection involves walking around the vehicle and inspecting several parts of the vehicle to make sure they are in proper working condition before operating the vehicle. The skills tests involve backing the vehicle in a straight line and other several backing maneuvers. Finally, the road test is a drive on public roads with an examiner to see if you can safely operate a commercial vehicle through everyday traffic. Once you pass all three of these tests you will then be issued your Commercial Driver's License.
Where Do I Find A Vehicle to Take the Test?
Many trucking schools provide a commercial vehicle to practice with and take the test in. Their training courses vary from 3-6 weeks. There are alternatives to trucking schools. There are companies that provide services and a vehicle for one day to those who need to take the test. This is especially convenient for those who already have experience in commercial driving or for those who wish to receive their CDL to make themselves more sellable to prospective employers.
Shane Goines provides services that help people receive their CDL in one day. If you would be interested in receiving your CDL without spending thousands of dollars or spending a month training, please contact Shane by visiting www.getacdlnow.com
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