Month: October 2018

Spotlight on the CDL Exam: Demonstrating Basic Control of the Vehicle

Just like the process to obtain a regular driver’s license, the exam for a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is broken down into a written test and a road test. The road test evaluator will judge you on your ability to exercise basic control of the vehicle. In other words, you’ll have to show that you can control its speed and direction in a safe and appropriate manner. Aspiring truck drivers often get nervous about the skills portion of the exam, but there’s nothing to worry about. You’ll get all the practice you need during your CDL training program.

Accelerating

Accelerate the vehicle gradually to prevent it from jerking. This is important because rough acceleration can damage the coupling when you’re hauling a trailer. If the road is wet, speed up even more gradually. Otherwise, you might lose control.

Steering

The road test evaluator will check whether you have both hands on the wheel at all times. This is significant because, if you hit a large pothole, you might lose control unless you have both hands on the wheel. Keep your hands on opposite sides of the wheel.

Stopping

Braking is far more complicated in a big rig than it is in a passenger vehicle. Remember that you’ll need a great deal more space to stop. Depress the brake pedal slowly to bring the vehicle to a smooth stop.

Backing Up

Make sure your vehicle is in the best possible position to execute this maneuver safely. Don’t hesitate to get out and walk around your vehicle to check its position. Back up very slowly, checking your mirrors often. It’s safer to back up and turn toward the driver’s side, since this allows a better field of vision.

Phoenix Truck Driving School at Ft. Bliss will thoroughly prepare you to ace your CDL exam so you can get started pursuing your lucrative truck driving career. Call us at (877) 206-8344 to find out about our upcoming class schedule. Don’t forget to ask about our next open house event!

Planning to Become an OTR Trucker? Know These Packing Essentials

Over-the-road (OTR) trucking jobs can take you all over North America. You’ll see incredible sights, meet friendly people, and benefit from a great rate of pay. And after you’ve completed a few of these long routes, you’ll get the knack for making your sleeper berth a comfortable home away from home. Use these packing tips to get started.

Clothes

You’ll need more than jeans and T-shirts for your OTR assignment. Bring comfortable, seasonally appropriate on-duty and off-duty clothing, steel-toed work boots, comfortable sneakers, and shower shoes. You should always bring a jacket and a raincoat. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses with broad-spectrum UV protection.

Personal Products

Create a shower kit with everything you’ll need for bathing, including:

  • Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Washcloth
  • Towel

You’ll also need these items:

  • Comb
  • Deodorant
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Floss
  • Mouthwash

Bring an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses, if applicable. Additionally, some truckers wouldn’t think of taking an OTR route without a portable toilet.

Cleaning Products

Your truck will be your home while you’re on the road, so bring everything you need to keep it clean. Disinfectant wipes are a must-have, along with an all-purpose cleaner and paper towels. Bring a handheld vacuum cleaner too, and don’t forget the laundry detergent!

Entertainment

Depending on where you’re parked on any given day, your entertainment might include visiting local attractions, hiking nature trails, or enjoying beautiful scenery. But you’ll also want a few items to keep yourself busy in the truck, like an e-reader, music player, tablet, or laptop. You could even bring along a game console and a small TV. Bring reading materials, crossword puzzles, or Sudoku booklets for some non-electronic entertainment as well.

Students at Phoenix Truck Driving School at Ft. Bliss receive exceptional career planning and job placement assistance. We start the process while you’re still working your way through our CDL training program, and after you graduate, you can have unlimited job placement services! Call (877) 206-8344 today.