I just wanted to point out something to you all, especially the newbies: Just because you are an 88M, and have a gazillion miles, does not automatically guarantee you a CDL (Commercial Driver's License). I can tell you for a fact that some states don't recognize your service as being sufficient proof that you can drive a truck forwards and backwards without hitting anything. Here in the Land of Enchantment (NM) we've had people who were Army Truck Drivers, that could not get their CDL without getting a permit and taking the driving test. I suggest that you, the soldier, check whatever state you are going to get a CDL in, to see what their particular rules are. And if you are going for a HazMat License (hazardous materials) be prepared to bring in your birth certificate, proof of residency, social security card, and your first born (nah, just kidding about the first born, but it sure feels like it), and be prepared to be finger-printed.

Just wanted to give ya'all a little warning before you go and try to get that "easy CDL"....don't want any of ya'all to be disappointed.

Apparently this thread has not drawn as much interest as I thought. Oh well.

quote:

Originally posted by professormatt:
Apparently this thread has not drawn as much interest as I thought. Oh well.

Well, I don't know but personally I thought getting a CDL was pretty easy path. Drive a school bus obtain a Chauffers Drivers License, take on charters across state lines....do the next step, then try to find a firm that will train you for a CDL.

I don't think it was that difficult in the 1980's. Maybe things have changed. Also, if I was a 88M in the Regular Army....why would I want to leave that and be a OTR trucker in the civilian world? Especially, given the past experience with astronomical fuel prices.

i have had my cdl for about 12 years now.i also drove without one before that(shhhhh).anyway i am currently back in uniform as an 88m just for the reason of losing my bussiness to high fuel and low rates.anyone who wants to leave a gaurenteed paycheck and some stable home time,oh yea and free health care i say to you good luck!

It does vary from state to state. When I ETS'ed in '88 I went to the DMV in Illinois, showed my DA 348, OF 346's and was issued a class C license, back then D was for semis and A was cars. When we switch to the CDL system we had to take the written tests, but no road test, to receive our endorsements or restrictions. Later company had me upgrade to a class A, kept that for 19 years. When we moved to Nevada last year I lost my CDL because I did not have a current DOT physical card, I haven't driven for hire for about 8 years by then.

I hear tell that Florida is the only state that will directly give you a CDL based on your military experience - but Missouri will grandfather all of the driving portion for experience. You still have to take the written part.

And yeah, the hazmat portion requires a background check to make sure you aint a terrorist, complete with fingerprints, paperwork, and a hefty fee.

quote:

Originally posted by ErichG2:

quote:

Originally posted by professormatt:
Apparently this thread has not drawn as much interest as I thought. Oh well.

Well, I don't know but personally I thought getting a CDL was pretty easy path. Drive a school bus obtain a Chauffers Drivers License, take on charters across state lines....do the next step, then try to find a firm that will train you for a CDL.

I don't think it was that difficult in the 1980's. Maybe things have changed. Also, if I was a 88M in the Regular Army....why would I want to leave that and be a OTR trucker in the civilian world? Especially, given the past experience with astronomical fuel prices.

You are correct on how things have changed through the years. A friend of mine had gotten his Class 1 licence in the late 60's in MA just by showing his Army issue drivers That policy was still there in 1978 when I got out, but I didn't think to go for it. Now, like you said things change, The state of MA requires you to get a learners permit and drive with a licensed driver before going for the drivers' test. While I was in the Army National Guard, the admin would ask anyone who wanted to go for the CDL may take a free course offered by a private company training outside of Devens.

I agree with you on the profiles and there is nothing I can do about it.

Heck in the late 60's early 70's I just used my reg driver's lic . And when i went into the Army as a 64c now it's 88m i guess here in Ohio you had to do it all over.