The CDL exam is something every truck driver will have to pass before they can hit the road. Believe it or not, there are people out there who actually enjoy taking tests. But even if you’re one of those people, when it comes to passing the CDL exam, it’s in your best interest to do it the first time around.
The CDL exam costs money every time you take it. And the longer you take to pass it, the longer it will be before you can hit the road and start earning a living.
So, what’s the best way to ensure you pass the test on your first go?
Go to Driving School
Most states require that you go to driver school before you can take your CDL exam. Even if your particular state doesn’t, a lot of trucking companies will. Driving school is there to teach you the ins and outs of driving truck. It will give you practice and hands on experience that is vital to making it as a truck driver.
It will also teach you many of the things you need to know to pass your exam. If you want to pass the exam and succeed as a truck driver, we recommend you attend driving school.
Don’t Cram
This is true for all tests, but it’s especially important for truck drivers. Not only is cramming an ineffective way of studying, but even if you do pass, you won’t retain the information. The questions on the CDL exam are there because it’s important for you to know them as a driver.
Following the rules and regulations of operating a tractor trailer can be the difference between life and death for you and the people around you.
Put the time in to study and absorb the information you need to know.
Use Practice Test
Taking a practice test is one of the best ways to prepare for the actual exam. It’s essentially a copy of the real thing, so if you can pass a practice exam with flying colors, you should have no problems with the actual test.
There are many practice tests to be found online at places such as DMV.org Though these sites often charge a small fee, it’s typically cheaper than the full test, and it allows you to review your answers immediately so you know what you still need to work on.
You can also find some free resources here.
Talk to Other Drivers
If you know other drivers, go ahead and ask them about the exam. Everyone of them had to take it in order to get their license. They may be able to provide additional insight and fill you in on questions they struggled with.
Relax
If you know the important information, then you have nothing to worry about. Don’t overthink questions or second guess yourself. Get a good night’s rest, go in, and take the test to the best of your abilities. Most people pass the first time.
And if you don’t, that’s okay. You can take it again.
Once you have your class A CDL license in hand, it’s time to get some professional experience. Woodruff Enterprises offers some great opportunities for drivers with 2 years or more of professional driving experience.
For truck driving jobs in Chicago and beyond, click here.