You've seen those huge 18-wheeler trucks on the road or passing by your car while you're traveling on a highway. As a driver yourself, you may find that it looks simple and easy to maneuver those large vehicles. But the truth is, it's not as easy as it looks.
So how would you know then if a truck driving job is for you? Some people may think that because they can't find a good job around, they'll just become a truck driver.
But take note that to become a professional truck driver takes a lot of patience as well as the right knowledge and skills. Driving an 18-wheeler truck to far destinations can be tiresome and very challenging. You will have to make a self-assessment first as to how serious you are in entering such a job and if you're ready for the challenges ahead.
You may already be driving a car and other small vehicles but you still need to undergo additional training if you're determined to become a commercial truck driver. The CDL or commercial driver's license course is what you have to obtain first. This is offered at vocational institutions and provides students with sufficient background on managing and repairing a huge truck in particular an 18-wheeler vehicle or a semi. It normally takes three to four weeks to complete the training course.
On the management aspect, students will learn the proper ways of maneuvering a truck such as on a sharp curve and how to take a turn without shifting the load in your truck, among many others. On the repair side, participants will be taught how to fix certain parts of the truck in the event something goes wrong while you're on the road. For instance, you will learn how to replace a tire or inflate it when it has low air pressure or how to fix the starter when your truck won't start.
The requirement for truck drivers to obtain a CDL license to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMVs) began in April 1992. CMVs primarily refer to tractor-trailers which require advanced skills and knowledge. In the U.S., the license is required in order to manage any type of vehicle with a weight rating of 26,000 pounds or more for commercial use.
Testing standards have been developed as well by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for licensing aspiring truck drivers. A written and practical driving test is normally given by the states or an accredited testing facility before they issue a CDL license. A CDL license can also be either Class A or Class B.
On the personal side, you will have to decide if you're physically and emotionally fit for a truck driving job. Physical fitness is necessary because even though you're just sitting down and driving, you should be alert at all times. In short, your hands, eyes, ears and feet are working and should be well coordinated to allow you to drive safely to your destination. In addition, you will be leaving your family behind for days or weeks or even months and this means you'll be on your own most of the time.
So again, think it over many times before making a final decision to pursue a truck driving career.
For great information on CDL schools, visit Truck-School.com
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