Why Choose TJRD Consulting?
Because We're With You, From Start‑to‑Finish
Our one-on-one CDL coaching gives you personalized attention tailored to your learning style. No large classes, no rushed lessons—just direct, real-time support to build your confidence and skill behind the wheel. With us, your questions never go unanswered.
We go beyond test prep by showing you how to think like a professional driver. From map reading to managing fatigue and understanding load safety, our coaching prepares you not just to pass, but to perform. You’ll be ready for real roads.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are you thinking about getting your CDL to drive 18-wheelers? Are you wondering about costs, age requirements, training time, or job options? You’re not alone. These are the most common questions people ask before hitting the road—find your answers here.
A CDL is a Commercial Driver’s License required to legally operate large, heavy, or hazardous material-carrying vehicles in the U.S. You need it to drive semi-trucks, box trucks, tankers, and other commercial freight vehicles.
Yes. Trucking is a high-demand industry. With supply chain growth and driver shortages, CDL drivers are essential and well-compensated, especially those who are safe, on time, and reliable.
There are three classes:
Class A – For combination vehicles (e.g., tractor-trailers, tankers, flatbeds)
Class B – For single vehicles (e.g., dump trucks, straight trucks, buses)
Class C – For smaller vehicles carrying hazardous materials or passengers
Most freight drivers go for Class A for maximum job flexibility.
Typically 4–8 weeks depending on the program and your schedule. Some full-time training programs take as little as 3–4 weeks.
Local delivery or freight driver
Regional or long-haul (OTR) driver
Tanker or Hazmat driver
Owner-operator (self-employed trucker)
Pay ranges from $45K–$100K+/year depending on freight type, route, and experience.
Example:
Class A CDL Drivers with Tanker Endorsement can earn an average of $80,000 to $100,000
Walmart: Drivers in Walmart’s Associate-to-Driver Program can make up to $110,000 in their first year per Walmart.
Owner-Operators can earn over $300,000 per year
18 years old to drive in-state only (intrastate)
21 years old to drive out-of-state or haul hazardous materials
Do I need a high school diploma or GED to get a CDL?
No. It helps, but it’s not required in most states. You must meet other eligibility criteria like age and health.
You’ll take:
General Knowledge test (all drivers)
Air Brakes test (if vehicle has air brakes)
Combination Vehicles (for Class A)
Optional endorsement tests (e.g., Hazmat, Tankers, Doubles/Triples)
Endorsements let you drive special types of freight. Useful ones:
T – Double/triple trailers
N – Tank vehicles
H – Hazardous materials
X – Tank + Hazmat combo
Many freight drivers get T and X endorsements to increase pay opportunities.
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CDL Prep
TJRD Consulting is committed to helping hard-working people like you find a new career. If you feel like you’re ready to make a change, we’re here to help you enjoy a career that offers more freedom, more pay, and more job satisfaction!
Ready to start your CDL journey? Call or E-mail us now for a quick quote and to get the help you need to begin.
Your new career is only one phone call away!
What are you waiting?
Let’s get moving! Call today for a quote and find out how TJRD can guide your CDL goals.
