The Steps to Becoming A Truck Driver
There are a few major steps towards becoming a truck driver that potential truck drivers should know about. First you have to do research to see if you are the right fit for a bay area trucking job, so getting the commercial driver’s license handbook in your state is the first step. Every state publishes an adaptation of a standard version provided by the Federal government, the most current template being 2010. Second, you have to decide where to go and plan the route, because the licensing system gives you an overview of the variety of driving jobs that are available for you.
You have to look at the types of careers offered such as one hauling truckloads over the road, and regional driving between depots with mixed loads. Needless to say, there is a lot of variety. Information on truck driving is available on Google where you can get hits for blog articles, YouTube videos, and other resources that help you learn about what it is like to be a truck driver. Another way to do research is to talk to a truck driver who can explain the reality of the jobs available.
There are CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) classifications that are classified for the different kinds of vehicles and there are classes called A, B, and C. Class A allows for tractor-trailer combinations, and vehicles of all sizes weighing over 26,001 pounds. Class B lets you drive single vehicles over 26,001 pounds, and Class C does not meet the criteria for Class A or B but may carry hazardous compounds, or sixteen or more occupants in the vehicle including the driver. Earning Class A should be your first goal as the other classes could follow if you need to borrow, rent or sign out a tractor-trailer rig.
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