Blog posts of '2023' 'January'

Supply chain issues are not what they were in 2021, however, there are many factors that are influencing 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 of 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 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 of 2022, the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration, (FMCSA), has required specific Entry Level Driver Training, (ELDT), for all seeking a new CDL going forward.  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 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 convenient time you need it.

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!

Seeking a Commercial Driver’s License is a popular idea in Florida.  To understand each step 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 for simplicity you must pass three basic tests.

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

You must pass a physical.  There are specific requirements that can vary slightly depending on which state you are seeking to obtain your CDL.  Florida requires commercial vehicle drivers to be at least 18, to pass a vision test, and to meet certain physical standards to confirm there is no serious health condition that could affect one’s ability to drive safely.  Enclosed is a link to see 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 already yet 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 progress.

It is highly common for behind-the-wheel schools to either 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, 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!