Category: HDS Truck Driving Institute News

Once you have completed your CDL training and passed the CDL exam, it’s time to begin your job search as a new truck driver. The time has never been better to pursue a career in trucking—each month, new jobs are added throughout the industry. As a new driver, there are numerous possibilities just waiting to be explored; take a look at the tips below to get started.

Applying for Jobs

The best time to begin applying for jobs as a truck driver is as soon as you know the completion date of your CDL training. Apply for as many jobs as possible, keeping in mind that you can always turn down offers if you have too many. Having multiple options allows you to choose the job that best suits you, rather than settling for the only employer that makes you an offer.

Types of Trucking

Most new truck drivers begin their careers as OTR, or over the road truckers. OTR trucking involves longer routes and many days spent on the road at a time. Even if you want to try other types of trucking, OTR provides you with the experience you’ll need to seek more specialized job options later on. As an OTR trucker, you can haul various types of freight for additional experience, such as flatbed trailers and refrigerated trailers.

Talking to Recruiters

One of the best ways to get the trucking job you want is to learn how to talk to recruiters. Keep in mind that recruiters have many different approaches, but being honest and maintaining a positive attitude will help you get the perfect job. Additionally, make sure to ask important questions about pay, benefits, and time spent away from home—this information can help you find the job that meets your wants and needs.

HDS Truck Driving Institute of Tucson offers lifetime job placement assistance once you graduate. Contact us today by calling (877) 205-2141, visiting our website, or stopping by an open house event to find out how we can prepare you for a successful career in trucking.

Even after you have received standard CDL training, you will still receive on-the-job training once you begin work. This training may last for weeks or months, during which you will work with your trainer to hone the specific skills necessary for your job. Knowing what to expect from your on-the-job training can help you make the most of this valuable experience.

What You Will Learn

The purpose of on-the-job training is not only to practice your trucking skills, but also to ensure you learn all regulations and procedures required by your employer. Every trucking company has a unique set of driver requirements and protocols in place, which depend upon the company and your position. These requirements may include safety procedures and specialized policies on damaged goods or package returns. During your on-the-job-training, you’ll also become familiarized with the types of trailers you’ll be handling to ensure you can control your truck safely and effectively once you are on your own.

Why On-The-Job Training Is Valuable

One of the best ways to get the most from your on-the-job training is to recognize why it is valuable. During your on-the-job training, you’ll be working constantly with a more experienced trucker who can offer you advice, tips, and guidance. Taking advantage of your trainer’s experience can give you valuable insight that will help you avoid making beginner mistakes. It’s also important to recognize that the best way to hone your trucking skills is to practice them in the real world on roads in all types of conditions. Your training will allow you to do this while still retaining an experienced trucker at your side to help when you need it.

Are you ready to pursue a career in truck driving? HDS Truck Driving Institute is here to help—we offer comprehensive CDL training, refresher courses, and job placement services for all our graduates. Check out our blog for additional trucking advice and information, or give us a call at (877) 205-2141 to discuss admissions today.

As the job market continues to improve, the trucking industry continues to add new jobs each month. Commercial truck driving offers you the opportunity to see the country and enjoy time to yourself while playing an integral role in the American economy. If you would like to consider a job in the commercial trucking industry, stop by one of HDS Truck Driving Institute’s Tucson open houses to learn more.

Integral to Economic Recovery

The trucking industry has always been integral in the movement of consumer goods. Trucks carry anything from raw materials and ready-to-buy products to food, livestock, and chemicals. Although the trucking industry, like many others, saw a reduction during the early years of the recent recession, today it is leading the national recovery. As the U.S. economy continues to improve, the need for both raw materials and consumer goods has increased. Thus, the trucking industry has needed to expand as well, opening up new jobs every month. Because the demand for new truck drivers is so high, there is currently a shortage of drivers. CDL schools report that many graduates have six to 10 job offers before they have even passed the CDL test.

Fast On-the-Job Training and Advancement

Commercial truck drivers are also desirable because on-the-job training is fast and effective. Once you are employed, you will immediately begin building upon the training you received in CDL school. In as little as one year on the job, you can have gained enough experience to significantly advance your career and command a higher salary. After just three years of driving, many truckers enjoy salaries in the range of $50,000. Additionally, if you want to pursue specialties such as the transport of hazardous materials, this training is provided by your employer while you work.

HDS Truck Driving Institute will prepare you for a successful career as a CDL trucker. We invite you to explore our website to learn more about admissions, training, and job placement in Tucson. You can also reach us by phone at (877) 205-2141for the answers to your CDL training questions.

Most professional truck drivers spend multiple days out of the week driving goods to and from various destinations. This can mean significant time spent away from home, which can be a challenge for married couples to overcome. Keeping a positive attitude and communicating with your spouse can help you maintain a healthy and happy married relationship with a truck driver.

Enjoy Your Independence

Spouses of truck drivers have the opportunity to enjoy their independence in a way many other spouses do not. Because a trucker may be gone five or six days out of the week, you have the opportunity to live and enjoy an independent lifestyle. Find hobbies and activities you love that don’t require your spouse. Focus on your own lifestyle and finding things that make you happy when your spouse is not available to help. You can also take time to focus on your non-marital relationships, such as spending time with other family and friends.

Plan Your Time Together

Because time spent together with a spouse who is a trucker is often limited, planning out that time can give you the opportunity to make the most of it. Making plans can also help to bolster your mood if you are feeling lonely while your spouse is away. Keep in mind that plans for time spent together don’t need to be large—think about watching a movie you both enjoy, having dinner at a nice restaurant, or simply talking a walk or a bike ride together when the weather is nice. If you’re able, talk to your spouse while they are on the road to develop plans together that you can both look forward to upon their return.

Truck driving can be a rewarding career that allows you and your spouse time to enjoy an independent lifestyle. If you would like to learn more about becoming a truck driver in Tucson, contact HDS Truck Driving Institute today by calling (877) 205-2141. You can find additional tips for managing your work and home life as a trucker on our blog.

A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is required for those who wish to legally operate a Commercial Motor Vehicle. To obtain your CDL, you must pass both a written exam and demonstrate your ability to safely and correctly handle a tuck. Attending a Tucson CDL school can prepare you for both portions of this exam to ensure you have no trouble passing and pursuing a career as a truck driver.

Receive a DOT Physical

Before you can operate a truck for training or employment, you must first receive a Department of Transportation physical. This physical is designed to ensure that you are physically able to drive a truck safely without putting yourself or others at risk. Your physical may include a vision test, hearing test, blood pressure reading, and assessment of any other physical conditions that may interfere with truck driving.

Obtain Your CLP

A Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) allows you to operate a truck in the presence of a licensed individual for training purposes. To receive your CLP, your driving record over the past 10 years will be checked in all 50 states. You may also need proof of state residency. Additionally, you will need to pay a fee before receiving your CLP.

Enroll in CDL School

The CDL exam includes four parts in total: a written portion and three skills tests. Skills that will be tested include vehicle inspection, basic control, and a road test. A CDL school can provide you with the training and knowledge needed to pass all portions of the CDL exam.

Take the CDL Test

Once you have had your CLP for 14 days, you can elect to take the CDL test for a fee. Upon successful completion of the test, your documentation will be processed; you may either receive your CDL in person or it may be mailed to you.

HDS Truck Driving Institute is here to help you prepare for the Arizona CDL test. Visit our website to learn more about our fully-accredited CDL school in Tucson. You can reach us by calling (877) 205-2141 or clicking on our web contact form.

Finding healthy meal and snack options can be a challenge while on the road as a commercial truck driver. Bringing your own healthy snacks or making healthy store-bought choices can prevent overeating, maintain your weight, and keep you feeling healthy and alert behind the wheel. Check out these healthy snack suggestions to find your next go-to snack while on the road:

Fresh Fruit and Milk

Fruit and milk are a classic combination that fulfills many of your body’s needs. An apple, banana, peach, pear, or plum from a convenience store offers a natural energy boost and a crisp, fresh flavor. Pair your fruit with a carton of skim milk to add calcium, protein, and vitamin D to your healthy on-the-go snack.

Wheat Crackers and String Cheese

Another great snacking combination truckers can easily obtain is wheat crackers and string cheese. If possible, choose a single-serving package of wheat crackers from a convenience store to prevent overeating.  You’ll gain all the benefits of a low-fat dairy snack, as well as the health advantages of choosing a whole-wheat product.

Chocolate-Covered Pretzels

Chocolate-covered pretzels can help to curb a sweet craving while providing a snack that isn’t overly heavy on calories or fat. If you’re in the mood for a treat, this option can be the perfect easy-to-find solution without resorting to a less healthy alternative.

Fruit and Yogurt Parfait

Today, many fast food restaurants have expanded their menu to include healthy options. Fruit and yogurt parfaits are a staple of many healthy menus and a great healthy snack truckers can enjoy while on the road. A parfait offers a sweet treat while providing your body with healthy energy and protein to get you to your destination.

Choosing a trucking career doesn’t mean giving up the healthy lifestyle you love. At HDS Truck Driving Institute, our experienced instructors will provide you with the firsthand knowledge you need to pass your CDL exam and enjoy a successful career as a truck driver. We invite you to check us out online or give us a call at (877) 205-2141 for more information today.

Semi truck drivers operate vehicles over 26,000 lbs in weight. Most semi truck drivers are long-haul drivers working for spans of many days at one time before spending one to two days off at home. Semi truck drivers play an integral role in the U.S. trucking industry, providing transportation of both raw materials and consumer goods.

Semi Truck Driving Wages

In 2013, there were more than one million semi truck drivers employed in the United States. The mean hourly wage for semi truck drivers was $19.68, resulting in a mean yearly salary of $40,940. However, both hourly wage and annual salary are dependent upon a number of factors, including experience, miles driven, and home state. Hourly wages for a semi truck driver range from $12.18 to $28.66 throughout the U.S., while annual salaries can range from $25,330 to $59,620.

Semi Truck Driving Employment Information

As of 2013, the states with the highest number of employed semi truck drivers were Texas, California, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Illinois. Annual wages in these states ranged from $36,400 in Florida to $45,040 in Illinois. However, the top paying states for semi truck drivers were Alaska, North Dakota, Massachusetts, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. Of these states, Alaska’s annual wage was highest at $53,440. In 2011, most semi truck drivers are employed with general freight trucking companies, with salaries averaging $41,250 per year. The highest-paying semi trucking jobs are currently express delivery positions, which provided average salaries of $56,830 per year in 2011. The second most highly-paid semi truck drivers in 2011 were those who worked for aerospace corporations; the annual salary for these drivers in 2011 was $56,350.The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the current trend of growth in the trucking industry will continue to grow through the year 2022.

Are you looking for a job in a desirable, fast-growing industry? Contact HDS Truck Driving Institute today by calling (877) 205-2141 to learn more about CDL training in Tucson. Please visit our website for additional information about financial aid, military education benefits, and our Lifetime Job Placement Assistance.

Life on the road can tempt you into following unhealthy habits. However, staying healthy as a commercial truck driver doesn’t need to be a challenge. Staying aware of the ways in which you can maintain good health will ensure you look and feel great throughout your career as a commercial driver.

Pack Your Own Food

One of the biggest challenges for truck drivers is sticking to a healthy diet. The best way to ensure you’re eating healthy foods is to bring them along and keep them in ready supply. Purchasing a cooler can help you keep fruits and veggies fresh while on the road. Newer coolers can even be plugged into the power outlets in your cab to actively keep food chilled without the need for ice. Pack plenty of your favorite fruits and vegetables, whole-grain breads, deli meats, and low-fat cheeses to create healthy meals. Low-fat yogurt, cottage cheese, and hummus with pita chips all make excellent midday snacks.

Make Healthy Menu Selections

There are many ways to eat healthily even if you do stop for fast food. Making smart menu choices in the drive-through can keep fat, calories, and sodium to a minimum when eating out. When selecting beverages, opt for water or unsweetened tea instead of soda, which will only add more calories and sugar to your diet.

Exercise Regularly

Every time you stop for gas, talk a walk around the area to keep your body moving. A pedometer can help you count the steps you’ve taken so you can set daily or weekly goals. There are also many simple exercises and stretches you can do in your cab, such as sit-ups and pushups. Try to perform a few sets of these daily before bed or first thing in the morning.

At HDS Truck Driving Institute, you’ll learn how to balance your health and your trucking career. Check us out on the web to find out more about our CDL classes, or call (877) 205-2141 for the answers to your questions about becoming a truck driver in Tucson.

Getting enough sleep as a truck driver is important for two major reasons. First, numerous studies have shown that poor sleeping habits raise your risk for serious health concerns, including obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Second, drowsiness while driving can also increase your risk of an accident on the road, endangering yourself and other drivers.

Plan Your Stops

As a truck driver, part of your job is planning out your route and the stops you will make along the way. Before setting out, know where you’re going to stop for the night and how long it should take you to get there. Once you’ve made your schedule, stick to it even if you’re feeling awake. You might not be so alert by the time you reach the next available place to get some rest.

Shift Your Schedule

Because parking spots at truck stops and rest areas can fill up quickly, it’s best to stop early to ensure you can beat the rush. If you stop in the late afternoon or early evening, you can get back on the road in the early morning. This strategy can not only ensure that you’ll have a place to stop for the night, but that you can avoid traffic by passing through cities long before rush hour hits.

Treat Sleep Disorders

Sleeping disorders, such as insomnia, restless legs syndrome, and obstructive sleep apnea, can affect your ability to get a restful night’s sleep even if you’re stopping for eight hours of rest. Seeking treatment for these conditions can help you to achieve the restful sleep you need to maintain good health and mental alertness. If you suffer from sleep apnea, talk to your doctor about treatment options for healthier sleep.

You can get more advice for a healthy trucking career from your experienced instructors at HDS Truck Driving Institute. Call us today at (877) 205-2141 for more details on admissions to our CDL school. We also invite you to check out our blog for more tips on truck driver health.

After you’ve graduated from CDL school, it’s time to begin your new career as a truck driver. There are many options to pursue, so it’s best to take some time to think about the career path you’d like to follow and how it will fit best into your needs and preferences. Even if you aren’t able to start out following the exact schedule and route you’d like, more paths will continue to open up as you build experience and credit as a trucker.

Company Driving

Working for a trucking company is one of the easiest and most common ways to begin a trucking career. When you work for a company, they will provide your truck and pay to maintain it to ensure it is safe and working efficiently. However, working for a company may offer more limited choices in routes, number of miles, and hours spent at home at first. As you build working experience and longevity with your company, you’ll likely gain seniority and the option to have more control over your schedule and routes. If you’d like to learn a new trucking skill or specialize in certain types of cargoes, consider signing on with a company that will either provide that education or help to fund further trucking courses.

Owner/Operator Driving

Rather than working for a company, you can go into trucking for yourself. Becoming an owner/operator requires a larger upfront investment because you’ll need to lease or purchase your truck. You’ll also need to pay to maintain it and keep up your own commercial auto insurance. However, becoming an owner/operator offers you the immediate freedom to choose the routes, cargoes, and companies you’d like to work with. Many truckers enjoy working for themselves and the freedom that comes with being an owner/operator rather than a company driver.

HDS Truck Driving Institute is here to help you prepare for a successful truck driving career. We are a nationally-recognized truck driver school that offers Class A and B training and testing. Please visit our website or call us at (877) 205-2141 to learn more about enrollment today.