Blog posts of '2023' 'January'

How to get a CDL in Texas 2023

Supply chain issues are not what they were in 2021, however, there are many factors that are motivating Texas residents to get a commercial driver’s license (CDL), in 2023.

Data collected from the American Trucking Association reports that nearly 1 trillion dollars in gross freight revenue were shipped in the United States in 2021. In addition, there are over 1 million different carriers. So, yes, freight is on the move and there are considerable opportunities for those considering pursuing a career in driving commercial vehicles.

According to statistics compiled by Indeed, the average truck driver salary in 2023, with less than one year of experience, is over $72,000! It is no surprise that many who are in need of a new career are seriously considering truck driving for a living. In years past, it was far more difficult to start out in the trucking industry with competitive pay because most carriers want to see experienced drivers who have shown that they can drive safely and efficiently before qualifying for top salaries. 

You may be surprised to know that you can begin your steps in obtaining your commercial driver’s license online. Since February 2022, the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration, (FMCSA), has required specific Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) for all new applicants seeking a CDL. The theory side of ELDT can be taken online nationwide at CDLDIRECT.COM. The convenience of starting online is proven by the over 25,000 students who have taken this online ELDT theory course since February 2022. CDL training involves both classroom and behind-the-wheel training.  Why take more time off work to spend time in an actual classroom? Why add time to the length of your in-person training if you don’t have to? Our online ELDT theory course can be taken from home or on the go! It Is mobile-optimized, so you can learn wherever you are at whatever time is convenient. 

It is important to know that obtaining your commercial driver’s license in Texas requires several steps in addition to the ELDT theory course. See the requirements listed by the Texas Department of Public Safety HERE. We are ready to help you along the way!

CDL Direct is committed to providing the highest quality Entry Level Driver Training course available online. We also provide ongoing safety tips for truck drivers through our blogs. If you are considering getting your commercial driver’s license or would like to benefit from the safe driving tips that we provide, then check us out at CDLDirect.com today!

How to get a CDL in Florida 2023

Seeking a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is a popular idea in Florida. To understand each step that a prospective truck driver must take, it is wise to become familiar with CDL requirements and standards for the State of Florida. See everything you will need to do on the Florida Highway and Motor Vehicle Safety website HERE. To summarize the requirements, it is important to note that you must pass three basic tests.

You must pass a knowledge test. This can be described as the CLASSROOM section that covers practical and general information related to commercial vehicles. It also includes specific topics that the FMCSA requires a commercial vehicle driver to comprehend. This part of the training can even be done online.

You must pass a physical. Florida requires commercial vehicle drivers to be at least 18 years of age, to pass a vision test, and to meet certain physical standards to confirm that they do not have a serious health condition that could affect their ability to drive safely. Here is a link for a list of the PHYSICAL requirements.

You must pass a skills test. This is the behind-the-wheel portion of CDL training. Obviously, one can meet the classroom and physical requirements from afar. But actually gripping the wheel, sitting in the seat, shifting gears, and gaining real-world experience of what is involved in driving the truck is essential. The average cost for behind-the-wheel training in Florida in 2023 is about $3500 and may take about 2 weeks, depending on how fast a student progresses.

It is highly common for behind-the-wheel schools to have direct connections with companies that can help CDL school graduates to find employment. In addition to those contacts, many trucking companies will send recruiters to talk to CDL students to explain what options may be immediately available, based on the student’s needs and circumstances.  With supply chain issues, and the pressing demand for drivers, there are many opportunities for those seeking a career as a commercial vehicle driver.

CDL Direct is committed to providing the highest quality Entry Level Driver Training course available online. We also provide ongoing safety tips for truck drivers through our blogs.  If you are considering getting your commercial driver’s license or would like to benefit from the safe driving tips that we provide, then check us out at CDLDirect.com today!