Your first year after CDL school: what to expect
How new-driver programs work, and how to choose one.
Your first year sets up your career. Most carriers hiring new drivers follow a similar path.
The usual path
- Orientation: paperwork, a road test, a drug screen and safety training.
- Training with a mentor: you drive with an experienced trainer for several weeks. Pay is usually lower during this time.
- Solo driving: you get your own truck and start building experience.
What to compare between programs
- Training pay and how long training lasts.
- Contracts: some programs require you to stay a set time or repay school or training costs if you leave early. Read this part carefully.
- Home time during training and after you go solo.
- Type of work: some carriers start new drivers on over-the-road only; others have local or regional options.
- Who pays for travel, lodging and your physical.
Tips that help new drivers succeed
- Keep your first job for at least a year if you can. Many carriers look for 6 to 12 months of recent experience.
- Protect your record. Tickets and preventable accidents in the first year follow you.
- Ask questions. Your trainer, dispatcher and recruiter expect it.
Ready to look? See jobs that accept new drivers or talk to a recruiter.
Have a question about a specific job?
Text (307) 218-3831 or send the short form. A recruiter will help you compare.