The trucking industry is an excellent career choice because regardless of supply, prices, and demand, goods get from the producer or distributor to customers via tractor trailer truck. A commercial driving license (CDL) is available in two different classes, A and B, for several types of trucks. Class A is for driving a tractor and trailer combination. Class B allows the holder to drive a one-piece truck, such as a local delivery truck, a school bus, or a construction vehicle.
Some require extra training, such as carrying hazardous waste, using a refrigerated trailer, driving an open trailer, or a tandem-trailer. It takes approximately four weeks to complete a course when attending full-time depending on the choice among CDL Schools in Chicago.
What Is Needed?
All schools require the same documentation from students because those are indicated by law. A permit is needed from the State, just like one was needed when first learning to drive as a teenager. A Department of Transportation (DOT) physical, which includes a drug test, is also necessary. A certification of health status from a general practitioner is not accepted as a substitute. Every student also needs a driving record from the Secretary of State.
Cost
Most CDL Schools in Chicago will not allow a student to enroll without payment in full for the course. Several schools offer only full-time status and do not have customized scheduling or any flexibility. One school, Company Name, is different from most others in both these respects. Pay-as-you-go financing is available with zero finance charges. Discounts are offered and students can get help applying for state, federal, and veteran’s grants.
Flexibility and Practice
Classes for both types of license are offered full-time, part-time, and on the weekends. Tutoring assistance is also available for those who need extra practice on the road or require help with the classroom work and testing. Students are allowed to take the State driving tests for a license up to three times if failure is the result of the first try.
Another benefit is that students begin to drive on the first day of classes. On-hands driving is done on the streets and in a real trucking terminal. This is an important difference over driving in an empty lot with cones indicating turns, lanes, and curbs.