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Once you have made the decision to become a truck driver and you are working on your CDL, you will inevitably wonder about what it will be like once you start looking for your first trucking job. With so many companies and types of jobs to choose from it may seem a bit overwhelming. Drive My Way provides a vast number of resources and information to students and established drivers alike, which can provide you with a starting point as you begin looking for your first trucking job.  

The three most important tips we have for student drivers looking to land their first trucking job are: do your research, build a network, and keep your options open.  

Do Your Research: As with any new job hunt, the first step for a student driver is to do research on potential employers and create a list of companies that offer positions and benefits that align with your personal preferences and goals. You will also want to determine whether you want to work for a large carrier, small carrier, public or a privately owned company.  

Some key qualities to look for in a trucking employer include: 

  • Compensation 
  • Benefits 
  • Training/Mentoring 
  • Opportunities for Advancement 
  • Home Time/Schedule  
  • PTO 
  • Driving Distance  

For any company you research, make sure to read testimonials of current and past employees to get an idea of whether it will be a good fit for you.  

Build a Network: From the time you begin truck driving school, you will be encountering several people, from other students to instructors. It is important to build a network with everyone you meet, because you never know who could be a referral for your first job, or when you want to change jobs down the road. As a first-time truck driver, you will also meet people on the road who will be important contacts to maintain for the future.  

Keep Your Options Open: Whether you are a rookie or a veteran in the trucking industry, it is always a good idea to keep your options open when it comes to finding, and getting hired, for a new trucking position. This is especially true for student truck drivers looking for their first opportunity. Even if the job you are researching is not a perfect fit, it is always worth applying for and finding out more information about the role. Student truck drivers may also benefit from applying for team driving jobs, which would allow them to gain vital experience and skills alongside a more seasoned driver. By keeping your options open, you give yourself the best chance of finding a position immediately after receiving your CDL.  

Drive My Way offers job listings for student truck drivers who are looking for their first trucking job and can provide additional support in landing a job that best fits with their lifestyle. For more information about our program, please create a Free Driver Profile with us today! We look forward to helping you find your first job in the exciting and evolving trucking industry.  

cdl driving test

If you’ve recently passed the CDL driving test, you know the relief, pride, and satisfaction that comes along with it. Truck driving can be a great career, and if you’re thinking about becoming a driver, passing the CDL driving test is your first step. Here’s what you need to know to pass the CDL test with flying colors.  

What Does the CDL Test Consist of?

It’s different in every state, but all tests will consist of a written knowledge test and a driving test. In some states, the written test is taken to get your CDL permit, while in others it’s taken to get your actual CDL. The driving test goes by different names state to state, but will always consist of some combination of these; pre-trip inspection, basic skills (or backing), and road skills.  

1. Study, Study, Study

Like with any test, the best way to pass the CDL test is to study.  

Every state has some sort of guide or study material for their CDL test. There are a lot of websites that may ask you to pay for a study guide, but you can usually find a free version on the state’s D/BMV website.  

Once you’ve got your study materials, you’ll need to set a study schedule for yourself. Choose a target date to take the test and then spend a little time studying every day, preferably the same time every day so you can get used to the routine of it.  

Also, be realistic about the date you choose. You’ll want to be fresh for the test and stay motivated, so choose something relatively close. That said, make sure you give yourself enough time to properly study. For most people, 2-3 weeks is a good timeframe.  

Once you get to know the material, start taking practice tests. Many states offer free practice tests on their website. There are also third-party sites like Trucker Country that allow practice tests. Drivers can take a generalized test for a CDL license or practice tests that are for a specific endorsement. These practice tests are a great way to test your knowledge and find any areas that need more studying.  

But, just be aware that the CDL test is a little different based on what state you are in. Make sure you get a copy of the study guide from the state where you’ll be taking the licensing test.

2. Demonstrate Technical Expertise

With the written portion of the CDL test done, it’s time to show off your driving skills. First and foremost, make sure you know the truck. The last thing you want is to try and make a simple air vent adjustment and be fumbling with the buttons. With the evaluator watching, even routine adjustments can feel like they have a lot of pressure. Know the inside of the cab like the back of your hand.  

Aside from knowing the inside of your cab, there are a few skills that you absolutely have to get right to pass the CDL driving test. Some of them are obvious — don’t stall and no shifting at intersections. Others are skills that you may need to be more conscious about.  

For example, it’s very important to use proper exit and entry techniques when you are getting in and out of the truck. Similarly, train yourself to notice weight limit signs as you’re driving.  

An examiner may ask you about a posted weight limit sign shortly after you’ve passed it. You need to know what it said. Any time you are driving, even in a personal vehicle, try to notice details on the road like weight limit signs.  

We spoke with new CDL driver Brittany, and she shared this advice:  

New CDL Driver, Brittany

New CDL Driver, Brittany

“If you’re going to school, be out there every day doing pre-trip inspections and maneuvers and stay focused while doing it. Ask all the questions you can think of because that’s what instructors are for. No question is a dumb question and don’t be nervous on test day. All the practice will show as long as you’ve put in the work.”

3. Make the Basics Obvious

trucking carrierWhen you take the CDL driving test, it’s easy to focus on the things that will be challenging, but don’t forget the basics. These are the things that are probably almost second nature to you, and you do them any time you drive.  

Keep two hands on the wheel. Check your mirrors and scan regularly. Signal all lane changes. Keep an eye out for speed limit signs and make sure you’re driving a few miles per hour under the speed limit. All of these are common sense basics, but make a point to make these obvious when you take your licensing test. 

4. Beyond Passing

DOT inspectionMake sure you know the automatic failure points so you can avoid them, but set your sights higher. Don’t focus on just barely passing. When you are in the cab with the evaluator, remember to stick to your purpose. You’re not in the cab to make friends, so don’t get too chatty. Some evaluators may consider this distracted driving.  

Above all, stay calm even if you make mistakes. You will likely encounter at least one small unexpected surprise while doing the CDL driving test. Take in the new information and keep moving forward. If you made a mistake, fix it for the next time.  

A calm personality and the ability to respond well to unexpected changes are key for drivers. Demonstrating that skill in a road test will impress your evaluator and give them confidence in your ability to be on the road professionally. 

two men in a truck

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Ever wonder if your brakes are safe enough for your trip? Getting brakes inspected regularly and practicing braking system safety extends their life. In addition, it ensures the safety of people with CDL trucking jobs, states a CCJ article from Feb. 11.

In the article, writer Jason Cannon writes about the importance of brake inspection. They also say technological leaps in braking systems are only as good as their upkeep.

“It is critical [brakes] are kept within their adjustment spec, which will give the vehicle even and balanced braking for better control,” says George Bowers, director of maintenance operations, Ryder. “Proper brake inspection is more than just the ability to stop the vehicle. It is about vehicle control.”

Matthew Mendy, product segment manager, Daimler Trucks North America Aftermarket, says fleets can actually lower their cost-of-operation by having brake maintenance procedures meet all industry standards and state and federal regulations.

Brake violations were one of the three most cited violations in the past 5 years. In his article, Cannon reiterates the importance of routinely checking your brakes.

A driver’s pre- and post-trip inspections are critical parts to identifying issues before violations occur. Rust streaks; air leaks; oil stains; worn, missing, broken or loose brake components; air lines rubbing on cross members or frame rails and/or bad or missing glad-hand seals are all obvious red flags every driver should be on the lookout for.

Routine brake inspections will not only keep you safe, but will also extend the life of the brake system itself.

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