If you are considering a career in truck driving, earning your commercial driver’s license (CDL) is the first step, and there are many schools to attend to do so. While websites are full of information and can answer many of your questions, the best way to narrow down your options is to talk directly with an admissions representative at the schools you are considering. Not sure what to ask CDL school representatives? We compiled a list of the most important questions to help you make the right decision.
Questions About the Trucking Industry
Although you may already feel that trucking is the right job for you, you may not know what type of driver you’d like to be or what to expect during your career. It is helpful to ask questions about the trucking industry to establish a solid foundation of knowledge.
Some questions to ask include:
- What are the different trucking jobs available? What does a typical day look like for each?
- Do different types of driving require different qualifications?
- Besides truck driving, what job opportunities are available for CDL holders?
- What does the trucking lifestyle look like?
- Is there still a professional truck driver shortage? If so, how does this affect me?
Questions About the CDL Training School
Along with learning more about the trucking industry, talking with a CDL school representative can also inform you about the training school you are considering attending.
Consider asking questions such as:
- How long does training take in your program?
- What information does your training program cover?
- What is the completion rate for your truck driving school?
- Do your professors have real-world experience?
- What is the student-to-instructor ratio?
- Does your school offer full and part-time classes?
Questions About Tuition and Financial Aid
Finances are a huge factor in deciding where to earn your CDL. Including questions about tuition and financial aid will help you better understand if a school is a good fit for you.
A few questions to ask about funding are:
- How much does your program cost?
- Do you have funding options available, such as scholarships or grants, that students can apply toward tuition? If so, what are they?
- Are there tuition reimbursement options?
- Do you accept benefits for veterans, such as the GI Bill®?
- How much money can I expect to make as a trucker? Will this wage differ over time?
Questions About Graduation and Support After Training
Most CDL training programs help students transition into their new careers after graduation, so asking questions about support after training will help ensure that your preferred school will be there for you.
Ask a CDL school representative questions like:
- How long does it typically take to find a job in the trucking industry after graduation?
- Do you offer job placement assistance to your students? If so, how does this work?
- What are my options if I fail the CDL exam?
- What trucking companies do your graduates often work for?
Attend a High-Quality CDL Training School in Phoenix
If you are ready for a rewarding career in trucking, then include Phoenix Truck Driving Institute in your list of potential schools. Our CDL programs have been providing high-quality truck driver training for over 11 years. With our accelerated classes, we can get you on the road and earning in as little as four weeks.
