Keep your cashflow rolling
How to Prepare for Your CDL
Commercial Driver's License
Often becoming a trucker driver can be the key to success, as a new up-and-coming driver getting ready to hit the road, take a minute and ponder on the following tips. It is interesting to note that though there is a shortage of drivers, there is not a shortage of people who have their CDL; this seems contradictory, but the fact of the matter is that little issues that were never contemplated are often what make the difference in deciding if a driver continues to be on the road or has a change of career.
Before getting your CDL please take a minute to consider:
- Is your driving record clean and in good standing?
- Is your criminal record clean?
- Do you have a history of substance abuse?
- Healthy Medical Record
- Is your recent work history verifiable?
- Are you okay with spending time away from home?
- Will you be an owner/operator?
Is your driving record clean and in good standing?
Potential employers take driving convictions seriously. This is not just a job requirement; it is the law. An employer will ask for a clean driving record for at least three years. This includes no speeding tickets or careless driving that could affect your ability to drive safely. On top of this, you must disclose any other convictions during the application or interview process. Hide nothing just because you do not think it is important or relevant anymore. It might cost you your job and even your relationship with an employer. Be honest about any mistakes and convictions in the past and share why they never happened again or any precautions you have put into place for repeat offenses through coaching and mentoring."
Is your criminal record clean?
Certain arrests and convictions have dire consequences for your ability to find work in the trucking industry. Felonies can be a major deterrent for potential employers, as they may reflect poorly on your character, history of trustworthiness, and lack of accountability. Applicants who cannot seem to stay away from drugs could invite lawsuits, or even worse, cause accidents that result in injury or death. DUI convictions give employers evidence of reckless behavior and a drug problem that may cost lives and money. Rates will be astronomical to insure such a driver.
Healthy Medical Record
Reveal all medications and treatments you have received in the past or are currently taking. You should expect to produce medical records for all conditions. In addition, most companies are going to want at least 30 days of stability regarding conditions such as blood pressure or sleep apnea.
Also, understand that what the DOT allows and what a company may allow can be two different things. Companies can set their standards for physicals, and one of the most common issues to arise pertains to psychotropic medications. Do not assume that a company will accept your antianxiety or antidepressant.
Often a company will have a list of medications on their "banned list" and may allow you to go home and switch to another medication and return after 30 days of stability. If the employer does not accept your medication, understand that it is nothing personal.
Is your recent work history verifiable?
You should consider your employment history and the level of commitment you will make to a new career and employer. If you're job hopping or resign without notice, you can ruin any chance of getting a job at an established company. It is important that you update your resume with all relevant information including experience, skills, education, certifications, and dates of employment.
Are you okay with spending time away from home?
Understand that much of your time will now be away from home, often this is something that inexperienced drivers do not give the weight it deserves when deciding if becoming a driver is for you. If you are a newlywed and just had a child, this may become a family problem you will have to deal with. Stability in your home is key to having a favorable driving experience.
Besides all the above considerations, you will need to have the following documents ready.
-A state-certified birth certificate
Your social security cards
The last three W2’s you received as well as the last three pay stubs
A 30-day record of any sleeping treatments you may have received
A voided check or bank deposit information
Of course, your current driver’s license
A marriage or divorce certificate for female drivers
A list of all medications you are currently taking or have taken in the last 30 days.
Finally, if you are looking at becoming an owner/operator, please understand that the biggest key to your business’s success is maintaining a good cash flow. It is most common that trucking companies to find a factoring company whom they may develop a working relationship with. These factoring companies are often the backbone of the operation. To find out more about factoring, visit us here.
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