If you’re considering a career as a truck driver, it’s important to ask the right questions before starting your training. Truck drivers operate heavy vehicles and are responsible for transporting goods across long distances, often across multiple states or provinces. This is a huge responsibility and one that must be taken seriously. Before you enrol in a MELT program in Brampton, it’s important you are comfortable with the instructors and facilities, so you learn efficiently.
Here are 12 important questions to ask before starting truck driving lessons:
1. What is the cost of truck driving lessons?
The cost of truck driving lessons varies depending on the school or program you choose. It’s important to understand the total cost of the program, including any additional fees for books, equipment, and exams. Make sure to compare the costs of different programs and choose the one that fits your budget. Don’t let a cheaper option entice you into signing up with them. Read reviews and talk to past students of the truck training academy.
2. What is the duration of the truck driving lessons?
The duration of truck driving lessons is typically five weeks but you can ask for extra training on the weekends before your AZ driving test. It’s important to understand the time commitment required for the program and make sure it fits with your schedule. If you are currently working a part-time and full-time job, ask the academy if they can offer you a flexible training schedule.
3. What is the class schedule?
Many truck driving schools offer both full-time and part-time classes. It’s important to understand the schedule of the classes and make sure it fits with your availability.
4. What is the curriculum for the truck driving lessons?
The curriculum for AZ truck driving lessons should cover all aspects of operating a commercial vehicle, including driving techniques, safety regulations, and maintenance procedures. A typical program includes a certain number of hours allocated for theory and practical. Make sure to ask about the specific topics covered in the program and ensure they meet the requirements of the industry.
5. What type of equipment is used for the truck driving lessons?
The equipment used for truck driving lessons should be up-to-date and well-maintained. Make sure to ask about the type of vehicles used for training and ensure they are similar to the vehicles used in the industry. At this point, you should also ask whether the training trucks have automatic or manual transmission as the latter one opens up more career opportunities for you. If you want to only learn on trucks with automatic transmission, that won’t cause any trouble in the future.
6. What is the instructor-to-student ratio?
The instructor-to-student ratio is an important factor in the quality of truck driving lessons. Make sure to ask about the number of students in each class and the amount of one-on-one instruction provided by the instructor. At Caledon Truck Driving School, we maintain a 1:5 ratio, meaning we only take five students every batch, so our instructors can focus every student properly.
7. What is the pass rate for the truck driving licence exam?
The pass rate for the truck driving licence exam is a good indicator of the quality of the training program. Make sure to ask about the pass rate of previous students and ensure it meets the industry standards. A healthy pass rate is between 75-100%.
8. What is the job placement rate for graduates?
The job placement rate for graduates is an important factor to consider when choosing a truck driving school. Make sure to ask about the job placement rate for previous graduates and the types of jobs they were able to secure.
9. What type of support is provided after graduation?
The type of support provided after graduation can be critical in helping you launch your career as a truck driver. Make sure to ask about the job placement assistance and ongoing support provided by the school. This also includes refresher courses or special prices for students who want to get a new licence.
10. What are the requirements for obtaining a commercial driver’s licence (CDL)?
Each province has specific requirements for obtaining a CDL. Make sure to ask about the requirements for the state or province where you plan to work and ensure they are covered in the training program. In Ontario, you are required to meet a certain eligibility criteria including a medical exam. Read more about the criteria here.
11. What type of endorsements are offered?
Endorsements are additional certifications that allow you to operate certain types of vehicles or transport specific types of goods. Make sure to ask about the endorsements offered by the school and whether they align with your career goals. For driving long-haul trucks, you must have an Air Brake Endorsement, which is a 2-day training program that covers the workings, inspection, and maintenance of air brakes.
12. What is the school’s reputation in the industry?
The reputation of the school can be an important factor in securing a job as a truck driver. Make sure to ask about the school’s reputation in the industry and whether they have relationships with potential employers.
By asking these questions before starting truck driving lessons in Brampton, you can ensure you choose the right program to launch your career as a truck driver. Remember to compare different programs, consider the costs and time commitment, and ensure the curriculum covers all the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful career in the industry.