Starting your journey toward becoming a professional truck driver is both exciting and life-changing. If you are wondering what to expect in the first 30 days of truck driving school, you’re not alone. Whether you’re brand-new to the road or already comfortable behind the wheel, knowing what lies ahead can help you feel more prepared and confident.
Week 1: Hitting the Books
Your first week in CDL training programs at HDS Truck Driving Institute will be spent in the classroom. Here, you will study essential topics like cab familiarization, safety rules, and how to perform pre- and post-trip inspections. This is the foundation for passing your CDL permit test and setting yourself up for success on the road.
Our instructors will walk you through topics like hazardous material handling, shifting techniques, and the basics of driving large vehicles like dump trucks and tractor trailers. This week is also a great time to get to know your instructors and classmates—you’re all on the same road to becoming commercial drivers.
Weeks 2-3: Hands-On Range & Yard Practice
After you pass your written permit exam, you’ll move to the training yard. This is where the real excitement begins! You will start wheel training with Class A CDL vehicles and get a feel for handling their size and power. From backing and turning to mastering parking maneuvers, you’ll build essential road skills.
The experienced instructors at HDS are there every step of the way to help you gain confidence and control behind the wheel. You’ll also work on specific skills needed for different vehicle types, including those required in entry-level driver positions involving dump trucks and other commercial vehicles.
Week 4: Road Training & Career Readiness
By your final week, you’ll be out on the road. You’ll practice real-world driving techniques on highways, surface streets, and industrial areas. This phase prepares you for the actual CDL driving exam, as well as for the challenges you’ll face as a CDL driver.
You’ll also receive guidance from our Job Placement Coordinator. Whether your goal is long-haul trucking, local routes, or specialized positions, we’ll help you explore career choices and connect with employers ready to hire. Our partnerships with reputable companies mean you could be employed as soon as you graduate.
Launch Your Driving Career With Confidence
From your first classroom session to your final road test, the first 30 days of truck driver training at HDS Truck Driving Institute are designed to set you up for long-term success. Whether you choose our standard CDL training program or the more advanced Professional Truck Driver Training Program, you will receive top-tier instruction and career support every mile of the way. You’ll build the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in the trucking industry from day one.
