Trucking school vs. company training? When it comes to getting a CDL in Las Vegas, there has always been some confusion about whether to join a trucking school or pursue company training. Your decision to attend paid CDL training near me or get the training at the company you work for usually depends on your situation. Whichever option you choose, you will be on your way to getting your commercial driver’s license.
If you can afford to spend on trucking school and want to stay close to home during your training, you should consider the first option. It is also likely that your trucking company offers tuition reimbursement for those who recently graduated from a private school.
This guide will furnish you with information on whether you should pursue CDL schools or get company training.
Benefits of CDL School
A trucking school is independently owned and operated and is usually not associated with any trucking company. You will be required to pay the tuition upfront as cash, grant, or student loan. When you choose a trucking school vs. company training, you should be able to earn your CDL within a few weeks.
Many truck driving schools also provide options for financial aid to assist with financing your training. Some also offer:
- Personal training
- Veterans assistance
- Tuition reimbursement
You will be able to learn from experienced and skilled instructors who have extensive on the road experience. Some also assist their graduates with finding jobs and can have access to hiring events run by major trucking companies.
When you choose to train at a trucking school, you have the freedom to select the type of CDL you want. This includes Class A, Class B, or a combination of both certifications.
Benefits of Company CDL Training
Company-based CDL training is usually provided by a trucking school that is sponsored by the company. You will require little or no money to train. The little tuition payments that may be there are often taken out of your paycheck when you get started with your job.
So, the lack of or very little payment is one of the biggest benefits of choosing company-based CDL training. Besides, you may also find some flexibility in terms of paying the amount back.
This approach means that you are already hired when undergoing your CDL training. There will be no need to search for a job once you earn your license.
Similarities
There are certain similarities between the two options. Both the truck driving schools will teach you everything you will need to pass your CDL exams and earn your license. Whichever path you choose, you will have your CDL license before getting on the road training. You will be learning under a mentor and this phase can last from a few weeks to a few months based on the company you work for.
When you complete this stage, you can become a solo driver for your employing company.
Differences
When you graduate from a CDL school, you will have the freedom to join any trucking company that may be hiring inexperienced drivers. When you complete company training, you will have to work with that company.
You should also expect some differences in terms of learning experience. When you join cdl schools, you are a paid customer and can generally expect a better experience. There is a generally slower pace and they will show more patience with their students. There is a more individualized training approach.
When you are part of your company-sponsored CDL training program, you will be like one of the players trying to make the team.
How to Choose Between Trucking School & Company Training?
Eventually, the main difference between choosing a trucking school and company-based training is the money you need to pay for schooling. If you have the resources to complete private schooling, it should be the preferred option. You can expect a generally better learning experience and approach. Once you complete your course, you will be at the freedom to work with any company that is hiring.
It is also important to realize that trucking companies don’t hire from all the truck driving schools out there. You should find out which major trucking companies hire from the school you are considering joining. On the other hand, if you cannot afford to pay for the schooling and/or want to work with a specific trucking company that is offering training, you should consider the latter option.
So, the above-mentioned information should help you make the right decision. For more information, feel free to contact Truck U at 702.533.3565 or write to us.