In order to get into the trucking business it is essential to have a commercial driver's license. Each state requires that you pass the commercial driver's license test to get a trucking job. The following advice will help you to prepare for both the written exam and the road test.
In order to get a commercial driver's license (CDL), you first have to pass the written exam. This will require that you show general knowledge of various regulations and rules, including those pertaining to cargo vehicles and combination vehicles. Here are a few things you can do to prepare.
Read the Handbook - Make sure that you thoroughly read the CDL handbook. It is important that you read for comprehension and don't just rush through it. You may even want to read through it more than once, until you feel like you understand everything.
Quiz Yourself - You'll also want to take the time to study and quiz yourself on various parts of the handbook. Reread important parts and then go back and quiz yourself on them. Consider getting a prep test so you can practice with the format and types of questions. Start studying in advance. Don't wait until the last minute. Spend a few weeks with the material.
Make Sure You Know Rules and Regulations - Before you take the written portion of the test, make sure that you know all of the rules and regulations. These are usually included in the test questions, so you'll want to make sure that you have a good grasp on them.
Of course, in order to pass the commercial driver's license exam, you'll have to take a road test. This is the practical part of the examination. It is important that you master good driving skills. Here are several tips that will help you prepare.
Show Skills in Gear Shifting and Backing Up - Trucking jobs are going to require that you are able to back up and easily shift gears. For this reason you'll be expected to show these skills when you take the road test. Make sure that you are excellent at smoothly shifting gears and that you can maneuver the truck backward safely.
Practice Turning - Turning skills are also very important. Take time to practice accurate turning skills whenever you can so that you'll be able to show that you can easily maneuver the large vehicle.
Learn from Seasoned Drivers - If you have gone through any training, you probably have worked with a seasoned driver. Before taking the road test, make sure that you learn from them and glean any helpful information. They can help you with the practical part of the test, as well as give you information on the industry.
Get Practical Experience - Last of all, it is important that you get some practical experience behind the wheel of a truck before taking the road test. This way you have real experience driving the truck and you feel comfortable handling the large vehicle.
Trucking jobs are excellent ways to make a living, but passing the CDL is essential. Take these tips into consideration and use them to pass the test with flying colors.