If a career in truck driving interests you, the first step is obtaining your commercial driver’s license (CDL). In order to obtain this license you will need to pass a CDL test that includes a written component that covers your general knowledge of commercial vehicle operation as well as a driving skills test. Truck drivers can make up to $64,000 a year* and many employers will allow you to choose the loads you want. This allows you the freedom to make your own schedule and an opportunity to see more of the country.
If you are preparing to take a CDL test, here are some things you should know:
The Written Test
The first part of the CDL test is a written general knowledge exam. This will assess your knowledge of commercial vehicles, rules and regulations, including safety and operation. You can also take endorsement tests, which include information about specific areas of commercial vehicle operation. These can include hazardous materials, double/triple trailers, and tanker endorsements. In order to pass your written CDL test, you will need to study all the material in the New Mexico Commercial Driver’s License Manual. You can also make use of CDL practice tests to prepare for the questions you might see on the actual exam. When you enroll with Phoenix Truck Driving School, we extensively go over all the information you will need to pass this portion of the CDL test.
The Skills Test
The skills test portion requires you to drive a commercial vehicle. This test is given by a state-certified testing administrator and covers the basics of driving. This includes skills such as: safety inspections, parking, starting, stopping, backing, and more. It also includes a section where you drive on the road. You cannot take the skills portion of the CDL test without having experience behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle. At the Phoenix Truck Driving School, you get hands-on experience operating a tractor-trailer under the supervision of seasoned truck drivers. Our instructors will teach you the basics of operating tractor-trailers and will help ensureyou are confident when you take your skills test.
Benefits of CDL School
Although you can study on your own and pass a CDL test, there are many benefits to studying with experienced instructors at a truck driving school. Many trucking companies prefer or even require candidates for their jobs to not only have a CDL, but also a certificate from an accredited trucking school. When you attend a CDL school, you also have more confidence and more experience when you take your CDL test. Phoenix Truck Driving School in Albuquerque can help prepare you to pass your CDL test. We use a combination of classroom learning and hands-on driving to make sure you are fully prepared for a career as a truck driver. Our accelerated program can have you on the road in as little as four weeks. Contact us today for more information.
*Professional truck drivers earn a mean annual wage of $44,500 (https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes533032.htm). The top 10% of truck drivers make more than $64,000 per year according to the 2017 Bureau of Labor Statistics.