What is all involved with a refresher course if I hadn't driven a tractor trailer in 1yr?

Question

Found a company that would like to hire me but I haven't been in a Class A automobile in 1yr. For the pass yr I've been in a Class B automobile. I know it will b diff driving local vs otr so I know Dot reg. on that. I know mapping my route. Then finaly gettin back behind wheel. What else would course consist of. Im having a very hard time finding class. Schools want me to enroll for entire segment for $2700.00 when I already know most of what I think course consist of! What else can I do?

Answer 1

As long as you still have a Class A CDL, it shouldn't matter that you've been driving class B.  Are you worried you forgot and just want a refresher or are you worried you won't be able to pass the test?  I know this won't help but there are no "refresher" courses.  See if you can borrow someone's equipment to practice driving.  I will tell you 100% for sure if it bothers you to go over the road then don't.  I owned a transporting company and my driver was a former dumptruck driver who pulled trailers before working for me.  He had never been OTR.  We're based in Fl and he went to PA.  I got a call from him while he was having a nervous break down.  He couldn't find a bathroom and he had to pee.  I had to tell him to stop the truck and walk around before he ran over someone.  So I'm not sure what your motives are behind this question but I strongly recommend be sure you can handle the job.

Answer 2

Emphasis is placed on shifting, turning, double clutching, backing and docking a tractor trailer and a review of the current rules and regulations of the trucking industry.

Answer 3

Dear Fellow Driver,  Most companies want experience behind the wheel. I am sure you meet the qualifications but experience talks,,,others walk. One of the reasons companies want experience is driven from the insurance providers. Many companies have "training" trucks that allowed qualified (licensed) drivers to go out with an experienced driver for several weeks / hrs on the road. This driving will be in your drivers log book and will demonstrate you have been in training. Maybe your new company can help you in this respect. There are schools that offer "driver finishing courses" that will identify and help with specific areas of driving. ( backing, set-up, close quarter maneuvering, etc.)  My former school in Iowa does this,,,,check into your area,,Welcome to the wonderful world of trucking !!!!