So, how long does it take to get hired after you get your CDL driving license? The simple and straightforward answer is several weeks if you start searching for a job right away. However, the time it takes to get hired also depends on finding the right job opportunities. You will have to find and apply to positions, complete the application process, DOT-approved physical, and undergo a background check and drug testing. You have to get cleared through these pre-employment steps before being hired.
The more elaborate answer to this question is in the following guide. We at Truck U, a fully licensed, experienced, and trusted Las Vegas truck driving school, would like to answer this question in more detail.
After Your CDL Training
When you attend CDL class training, you are making an investment in your career. Once you receive your commercial driver’s license and graduate from trucking school, you can enter the job market as a professional commercial driver. In order to apply for a job, it is important to know what qualifications you should meet. This includes:
1. Getting Your CDL
You will have to pass a written and practical test to demonstrate your understanding of truck operations. You will have to be 21 years or older to be eligible for the CDL test.
2. Pass Your Physical
You will be required to pass a physical exam. This test involves checking the following physical conditions:
- Hearing abilities
- Vision
- Field of vision
- Blood pressure
Potential employers want to hire healthy drivers to ensure enhanced safety on the road.
3. Pass a Background Check
Before your potential employer will hire you, they will require you to go through a background check. Certain types of felonies can disqualify you to get a job. This includes felonies involving:
- Drugs
- DUIs
- Hit & run cases
4. Language Proficiency
As a truck driver, you should be proficient in English in all ways. You should be able to read maps, road signs, and reports in English. English speaking skills are also required as you may have to communicate with law enforcement and the general public.
5. Meet Company Rules
Different trucking companies have different requirements for their driver application process. You should check with your potential employers to learn about their unique rules.
6. Complete Truck Driver Training
You will be required to complete a trucking driving training program before you start working. This training will prepare you not just to drive your truck, but also to inspect it. As a commercial truck driver, you are required to inspect your truck and identify certain issues and this is required under federal and state laws.
7. Complete Employer Training
Certain employers also provide specialized truck programs retaining to their employees. Such programs are created to ensure their hired drivers know their vehicles before taking them out on the road. Some employers may also require you to undergo hazmat driver training.
Finding a Job After Getting Your CDL
Even when you think you are qualified to apply for a job after getting your CDL in Las Vegas, you will be required to find job opportunities. The following steps should help you in finding jobs you qualify for:
Get Help from Your Trucking School in Las Vegas
Some trucking schools in Las Vegas schools help their alumni find jobs. When you are looking for a commercial truck driving job after graduating from a school, it is best to take advantage of their alumni program. Trucking companies often work with these schools in hiring their graduates.
Find & Research Local Trucking Companies
After you complete your CDL driving classes and get your CDL, you should search for job opportunities available in your area. You can easily search online to find these opportunities. Make sure to research each company’s profile before you apply. When you demonstrate to a trucking company that you know something about their business, it gives you an edge in the hiring process.
Besides these tips, it is recommended to work on your interviewing skills as well. Once you land a job as a commercial truck driver, you will get the opportunity to drive using your CDL with your new trucking company. After gaining a few years of experience, you can also explore your options of operating as a solo truck driver or building your own team. Your CDL driving experience also creates opportunities for you to expand your career in other areas including bus driving and Certified Hazmat Training.
Whether you are looking for paid CDL training near me or exploring opportunities near you, feel free to get in touch with Truck U. You can reach us at 702.533.3565 to discuss your options. You may also write to us using this online form and we will get back to you at the earliest.