Trucking driving schools come in with a variety of curriculums and options. Money for classes at such enterprises varies as well. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics proper training for the job comes essential. Unfortunately the price of tuition is not a good indication of the quality of the school. One of the major advocates in the industry is The Professional Truck Driving Institute. It lists certified schools and gives great information on truck-driving careers. Plus it offers information on schools that issue commercial driver’s license. According to the Institute, tuition ranges from $1000 to over $10,000 depending on the program and the number of certifications.

Types of Classes

Vocational or technical schools cost the least amount and are the most comprehensive. Financial aid often is available. Other programs exist that offer one or two day trainings that are less than $4000. Check these particular programs carefully for types of certification, and for a list of skills covered. Make sure the program covers all standards of the CDL license test.

A good trucking school will have as its goals obtaining a commercial license by passing the CDL test. Private truck driving schools charge what the market will bear. Costs will range from just under $4,000 to over $10,000. Private trucking schools are not subsidized by the government and must make a profit. Look for schools that have been in business a while and have a good reputation. Some industries give on-the-job training. The company may pay a student while training for truck driving. Be aware this will not be a full course but will provide the skills necessary to do the job.

Differences Between Schools

No standard curriculum or format exists for truck driving schools. Much of what the trucking industry does depends on the state of the economy, and how much gasoline costs. Company schools respond to the economy the most. Courses come specifically developed for that business’s needs. A major is job comes available at the end of the training. For the skill set taught these schools provide the best training. Disadvantages are the narrow focus on skills limits other job opportunities in other industries. School quality becomes subjected to the nature and intent of the business.

Technical schools offer broader programs. Courses are more general since they train for a profession rather than a particular business. Advantages are technical schools courses come low cost since the government subsidizes tuition. Instructors will cover most skills from any type of trucking giving students a variety of options for entering a trucking career. Students will have access to many services such as financial aid, and career counseling. Disadvantages are courses will not focus on a particular industry and skill set. The amount of hands on driving may be less.

Most goods in the American economy are hauled by trucks so jobs exist in any state of the economy. Be aware that gasoline pricing has a major effect on pay and profit in the industry. Different companies operate by different rules so every time a job change is made check on the stipulations. When in doubt check with The Professional Truck Driving Institute which will have plenty of information so one can make an informed decision.

Cole & Lambert sells concrete pump trucks & concrete pumps and provides information to help keep the trucking and concrete industries healthy and growing.