Becoming a Truck Driver: Find the School

Choosing the School That's Right For You [Part 2 of 4]

You’ve put a lot of thought into it, and you鈥檝e made your decision – you鈥檙e ready to begin trucking school. That’s great! Now, your first step is choosing a CDL school.

The number of schools to pick from depends on where you live. When you’re looking at your options, there are different criteria to consider. The bottom line is you want attend a quality school that helps produce safe and successful truck drivers. Become the best driver you can be by taking your time and choosing the school that is best for you.

Setting Up an Appointment

One good way is meeting with a few schools in your area to learn more about them. At ACI, you’ll first set up an appointment with one of our school Admissions Representatives who will answer any questions you have about enrollment and tuition assistance. You’ll also receive a tour of any of our three campuses. Another way is to join in on the conversations on , and talk with students and graduates to learn about their ACI experience.

Once you鈥檝e chosen a school, you can begin the real work. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires drivers to meet certain health and wellness standards in order to drive a truck. Most importantly, before you can pursue a Commercial Driver鈥檚 License (CDL), you must pass a medical exam. The Admissions Representatives at ACI can help you find the appropriate medical facility so you can get the required Driver鈥檚 DOT Medical Examination Card. They’ll also go over the entire enrollment process, including finding and applying for appropriate student loans, or help you identify appropriate grants you can use.

Beginning the Enrollment Process

Keep in mind there are certain factors* that play a huge role in qualifying for CDL training. Students are聽required to complete a drug test with a negative result upon enrollment. They are also subject to random drug and alcohol testing in accordance with DOT regulations. Additionally, students are聽asked the following specific questions prior to enrollment in any of our CDL training programs:

  • Do you have any moving violations or vehicular accident(s) in the last 3 years?
  • Do you have any tickets pending?
  • Have you ever had your drivers license suspended/revoked, or are there any restrictions on your license?
  • Have you ever been convicted of a DWI, DUI, or careless driving?
  • Do you have any Alcohol or Drug violations?

Truck driving is a job that requires聽trust. Employers cannot fully trust drivers who have聽a record of traffic infractions. Your reputation will precede you, so make sure you have a good one. So, take your time and look at your options to determine the school that’s right for you. Doing a bit of research will go a long way in your career training.

Learn More About ACI

If you’re ready to take the next step towards a career in the truck driving industry, the right training makes all the difference. Learn how ACI can help you reach your career goals! Fill out the form you see on this page, or give us a call at 1-877-649-9614.

If you’d like more information on the Truck Driver CDL 91影视 available at 91影视, please contact us or visit advanced.edu/training-programs/

*91影视 is an Equal Opportunity Educational institution and does not discriminate in the recruitment and admission of students with respect to race, color, creed, sex, age, handicap, disability, national origin, or any other legally protected characteristic. Applicants should be aware, however, that there are U.S. Department of Transportation physical requirements that must be met for admission into any of our Transportation programs. More information can be obtained from the Admission鈥檚 department or by reviewing our School Catalog and Handbook here.

Other Articles in This Series: Your Guide to Becoming a Commercial Truck Driver
Part 1: Is Truck Driving Right For Me?
Part 3. CDL Training
Part 4: CDL Endorsements