Are you thinking about starting a career in truck driving? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Before you hit the open road, it’s necessary to understand the truck driving school requirements that will help you kickstart your journey toward becoming a professional truck driver.
Seven truck driving school requirements include:
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Age Requirements
To enroll in a truck driving school, you must meet certain age requirements. In most states, you need to be at least 18 years old to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and drive within your home state. However, to drive across state lines or transport hazardous materials, you’ll need to be at least 21 years old.
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High School Diploma or GED
Having a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate is often a prerequisite for truck driving school admission. This requirement ensures that you have the basic reading, writing, and math skills necessary for the job.
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Clean Driving Record
A clean driving record is crucial for anyone aspiring to become a truck driver. Most trucking schools will conduct a background check on your driving history. Excessive traffic violations, DUI convictions, or a suspended license can make getting accepted into a program difficult.
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Medical Exam
Truck drivers must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam. This exam ensures that you are physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle. It includes vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall health checks. Passing this exam is a must to obtain a CDL.
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CDL Permit
Before you start driving big rigs, you’ll need to get a commercial learner’s permit (CLP). To obtain a CLP, you’ll have to pass a written knowledge test on CDL rules and regulations. This permit allows you to practice driving a commercial vehicle under the supervision of a licensed CDL holder.
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CDL Skills Test
To earn your CDL, you’ll need to pass the CDL skills test. This test evaluates your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. It’s essential to practice and be fully prepared for this test because passing it is the key to getting your CDL.
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Endorsements
Depending on the type of trucking job you want, you may need to earn additional endorsements on your CDL. For example, if you plan to transport hazardous materials, you’ll need a hazmat endorsement. Other endorsements include tankers, double/triple trailers, and passenger vehicles.
Discover Your Road to Success with Phoenix Truck Driving Institute
Meeting the requirements and receiving quality training are crucial steps toward becoming a skilled truck driver. At Phoenix Truck Driving Institute, we offer an accredited program with experienced instructors and job placement assistance. Get on the road to success today – enroll with us and begin your journey toward a rewarding career as a professional truck driver!
