To become a professional truck driver, you need to enroll in a driving school and attend all truck driving classes. More importantly, you need to pass all the tests to be issued with various accreditation documents such as license. Though truck driving is a lucrative and attractive career, not every driver can drive a truck professionally. Enrolling in the driving school is the first step to becoming a long-haul trucker.
It is of paramount importance to get a clear picture of what you are getting into to become a professional driver after the training course. Do not expect that the learning process is a walk in the park. You will come across a number of challenges along the way that you will have to overcome to graduate. There are hundreds of written materials such as books that you will read in order to master basic mechanics, truck inspection, and safety regulations. This does not mean that the learning process is boring, you will have fun but it is of the essence that you maintain a positive attitude and commitment throughout the learning process.
Truck driving classes pose a different set of challenges than the ordinary driving course. You will at times feel nervous especially during the initial stages when you get behind the wheel for the first time or taking the first continuous assessment test. Do not let your nerves hinder you from making informed decisions. Note that once you graduate, you will encounter stressful driving situations, so it is imperative to learn to be confident and cool even when under pressure.
The main objective of going to a driving school is to master all truck driving skills. Hence, it is recommendable to practice all the skills that you will learn periodically to nurture your driving skills. This will go a long way in increasing your chances of passing the final tests. Do not shy way away from asking your instructor for extra practice sessions. Even if you find it difficult to master one skill, no not give up. Instead, stay positive, relax, and commit more time to that skill until you get it right.
Most truck students tend to focus more on the CDL exams and forget to revise for the theoretical part of the course. The most plausible reason for this trend is that they expect the written test to be easier than the practical. Others struggle with anxiety about written tests, and this hinders them from achieving the set score threshold. It is very easy to pass the exam if you study and prepare well.
Before you get into the truck, take the time to verify the condition of the tires. In addition, see to it that all the indicators are working normally. Once behind the wheel, check the position of the mirror, turn the radio off if it is on, adjust your seat, fasten your seatbelt and request the driving instructor to fasten their too.
As you drive the truck, monitor the speed that you are driving at and obey all posted speed limits along the road that you are on. For instance, lower your speed limit when entering certain areas that demand the drivers to do so lest you lose marks. Ideally, you should be a few km/h under the set limit.
Make sure you use the indicators when making a left or right turn. Be sure to check every direction carefully to ensure that it is clear before you turn. More importantly, check all the blind spots and turn on your indicators when changing lanes to inform the other motorists on the road of your intentions.
When coming to a halt at a stop sign or red light, you must apply the brakes slowly. One of the best ways of doing this is by giving yourself ample time to slow down as you approach the spot. A sudden stop will lead to demerits that will significantly lower your final score.
Take your truck driving classes serious and strive to attend all the sessions to acquire all the information and skills. Have the right attitude; be positive and focused throughout the course.
As a leading truck driving school in Toronto, offering trucking lessons, we can help you pass the final test and obtain a valid license. Call us at 416 222 4190 for more information.