Helpful Hints

Helpful hints on entering the transportation industry. Before you begin classes there are a few items you must obtain.

We suggest that you go to your family physician, or a local walk in clinic and request a Department of Transportation physical.  If in fact your family physician does perform these physicals, the office will have all the paper work needed.  Upon completion, the medical office will send you away with a DOT Medical card to carry in your wallet, and a long form of the physical.  Please keep the long form at home, with your personal records.  If it is requested from any trainer or prospective employer, give them a copy.  You should retain this form. You will also need to go to your local Department of Motor Vehicles and request the Commercial Driver Handbook.  Study for following written tests:  General Knowledge, Air Brakes and Combination Vehicles, (tractor trailer).  The handbook includes quizzes so that you can track your knowledge and determine when you are ready for the test.  On the day of your test, arrive with your current license and Department of Transportation Physical card.  Inform the DMV worker that you desire to take the written test for a Class A license.  Again, that is General Knowledge, Air Brakes and Combination Vehicle (tractor and trailer).You will need this written document in order to receive any behind the wheel training with an instructor.  While you are at the Department of Motor Vehicles, request a printout of your driving record.  The average fee for this is under $5.00.  Often when it is requested that you provide this document, it should be less than thirty days old.

While there is a set process to go through to obtain your Commercial Driver License, the tasks are small compared to the large pay offs that await you.