When it comes to finding the right CDL School, there are certain things you should look for. These include:
Accreditation
Has the truck driving school sought accreditation? This is currently voluntary and there are some great schools that have not bothered to get accredited. But usually those that have been accredited by the PDTI are the best.
Safety record
Choose a school with a good safety record. At this stage you are obviously concentrating on getting your CDL but once you have it you want to maintain it. Some commercial drivers have had their license suspended or revoked for dangerous driving. Get the best start by learning at a school that takes safety of drivers and the community in general seriously.
One student per truck policy
It sounds obvious but when you are completing your CDL training, you want to be the only student in the truck. You are looking to complete 44 hours of actual driving practice and that will take ages if you have to share a rig. Only book a truck driving school that guarantees you your own cab.
Is the school local?
You might be dying to drive across the open country but you don’t really want to start racking up miles before you gain your CDL exam. So choose a local school unless you opt for one that offers residential accommodation as part of the total package.
What size are the classes?
Some students will fly through the CDL training regardless of the size of the class. But most would benefit from smaller class sizes where more individual attention is likely.
Does the CDL School offer a comprehensive program?
As you will know from looking at the CDL study guide, the amount of information you require as a commercial driver is huge. You want a school that offers a comprehensive program providing you with every chance to pass all your exams at the first attempt.
Does the school offer advanced facilities?
Not all CDL schools can offer advanced facilities like the Fox Valley Technical College in Wisconsin. This college has a very well deserved reputation so if you live locally it would be the one to check out.
How long has the CDL School been around?
Ok it could be the best school ever but unless it has been around for a few years, you won’t have any past results to judge it on.
Financing options
Attending truck driving school isn’t cheap so if finances are an issue you should opt for a school that offers good financial aid programs. The admissions office should be able to provide information on grants or other incentives that may be available.
What about Job placement?
Even the best CDL school cannot and shouldn’t guarantee you a truck driving job when you graduate. But the better schools will work proactively with trucking companies in the area to get their students the vital work experience they need to earn the higher truck driving salaries.