Learning About The Educational Curriculum Creation Process

Embarking on a new career as a truck driver will require you to make numerous decisions, many of which can determine the course of your future for years to come. However, the first and arguably most critical decision you'll need to make is seemingly the most straightforward: where should you take your CDL classes?

While there are plenty of factors to consider when choosing a school, you'll need to begin by deciding whether you want to work with a paid or unpaid (sometimes known as private) CDL training program. Of course, there's no single choice that's correct for everyone. Instead, ask these three questions to help decide which route fits your needs, budget, and goals.

1. How Are Your Finances?  

There's no getting around the elephant in the room: private CDL schools can be expensive. Costs vary, but you'll need to cover the tuition for these courses on your own. Fortunately, most schools offer options for new drivers with limited means, including loans, scholarships, and grant programs. If your finances are limited, you may want to see if these programs can help.

On the other hand, paid CDL programs typically don't involve many out-of-pocket expenses. Company-sponsored schools usually pay for temporary housing (if necessary), so you'll probably only need to cover your regular day-to-day costs and bills. However, these courses can be intense and may involve living away from home, so always consider how time off from your current job may impact you.

2. What's Your Timetable?

Attending CDL classes isn't like attending a traditional university or technical school. Completion times can vary between options, sometimes significantly. While there are exceptions to every rule, it's generally true that company-sponsored paid programs usually take less time than private schools. The difference may be a few months or longer.

Note that these shorter programs tend to be more intense. If you find a paid program that will get you your CDL a few months quicker than a private option, make sure you consider the intensity and speed of the courses. If you like to take your learning experiences a little bit more slowly, you may want to consider a private program you can take at your own pace.

3. Do You Have Pre-Hire Letters?

Pre-hire letters are a somewhat unique facet of the trucking world. These letters are effectively conditional employment offers that trucking companies provide to candidates without CDLs. A pre-hire letter doesn't guarantee a job, but it means that a company will consider you for a position once you complete your training.

Going with a private program can be advantageous if you have multiple pre-hire letters. You'll get to choose from multiple companies and have a good shot at landing a job as soon as you complete school. On the other hand, a paid program may be better for new drivers without many pre-hire letters. In that case, you'll have a guaranteed job lined up without having to conduct pre-CDL interviews.