CDL Driver Training Programs
Permit Training
In order to prepare for permit, there will be a 6 hour classroom training session. This will include a video on pre tripping a tractor, and trailer. Showing them the parts of the vehicles, steering, brakes, etc. They will also learn how to prepare for the written test by going thru test sections including the following:
- General Knowledge
- Cargo
- Combo Class A
- Hazmat
- Passenger
- How to fill out Driver Log Book
- Driver Fatigue
- We have sample tests for them to try covering all study plus questions in the back of each chapter.
After the student has passed the required endorsements. We will then set up the in vehicle training schedule. Since we are open six days a week with flexible hours we can work out training with the students needs in mind.
Vehicle Training
These lessons are two hour sessions, strictly one on one with instructor. Before each lesson we will go thru a pre trip inspection from front to back. Then we will do the interior inspection. Checking everything from lights to doing the air system test, gauges, and emergency equipment.
Students will be instructed in the following among other things:
How to use the clutch, starting and stopping. If it appears that the student needs the full lesson learning to operate the truck we will spend the entire lesson time doing so.
- When ready the student will be taken on the road with a 28’trailer to get use to a trailer behind them.
- As they progress we will move them to a 40' or 45' trailer.
- Each lesson will consist of a pre trip. They will learn safety is #1 priority.
- Uncouple/Couple. Not required for N.Y. but they need to learn it.
- Shifting and downshifting; learning to use the gears and not relying on the brakes to coast to a stop. Downshifting on the off ramps.Upshifting on the on ramps. How to get up to operating speed.
- Approaching turns; being in the proper lane to make the turns safely and correctly.
- Intersecting; how to be ready to make your turns before you get into the intersection.
- Negotiating turns. Left and right curves.
- Hazards; school zones, railroad crossings, approaching work zones and how to safely go thru them.
- Grade control downhill; using your gears correctly.
- Safe driving in cities and rural areas, on highways, including night driving.
- Parallel parking and straight-line backing. Blindside backing.
- The proper way to use your mirrors. The blind spots on your truck.
- Safety (safety is the #1 concern of myself and my instructors.)
We will be doing everything possible to make sure the student is ready for his/her road test. Also we will prepare them for life after the road test; what to expect from the first couple of driving jobs.
Last but certainly not least we will go over the main things the New York State Inspector will be looking for on the road test.
Most students can grasp this during their 2 hour lessons. I have found the stress level of students with more time than a 2 hour lesson can become counter productive. We do offer different options for training depending on experience level of student. I also know that my competitors in Orange County use a Sleeper and a 53' trailer for training and spend about 8 hours a day with students. Most importantly it must be noted that this is 3-4 students plus an instructor all together going out at the same time and includes classroom training time. Yes, certainly you can make more money teaching this way but far fewer pass the road test by learning this way. This is why we stress that one on one is a much better way to learn.