CDS Tractor Trailer Training has helped thousands of students begin rewarding careers in the trucking industry through its hands-on CDL training programs. Offering both Class A and Class B commercial driver’s license programs, as well as refresher courses, CDS prepares students for real-world driving with classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and access to an experienced and supportive staff.
But what truly sets CDS apart isn’t just the curriculum, it’s the graduates themselves. Their stories, challenges, and triumphs highlight what students can truly expect after truck driving school. Whether you’re wondering about life as a truck driver, how to get started, or how to be a successful truck driver, you can learn directly from esteemed CDS graduates who’ve taken the same path.
Student Testimonials & Profiles
Farkeem French, a proud CDS graduate, says:
“Best school around. James, Amanda, and Vernon were all very helpful in achieving my goal. The knowledge they gave me, I will carry with me in my career. I also want to thank Tara – she was so helpful and patient with me when I was enrolling. She made sure I had everything I needed to get started. Wouldn’t be possible without all your help.”
Tammy Gordon, the parent of a recent graduate, shared this heartwarming testimonial:
“I can’t say enough wonderful things about my son’s experience with CDS Trucking/CDL Driving School, especially thanks to Tara… Tara truly went above and beyond to make sure my son felt confident and well-prepared as he started this new journey.”
Joelito Rios, who recently earned his Class A CDL, offered a comprehensive review:
“The classroom experience was fantastic thanks to Mike—hands down, one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. The instructors like Garret, Tracy, Justin, and Amanda genuinely cared about our success. The support from staff and students created a truly motivating environment.”
These testimonials show not only the technical knowledge students gain at CDS, but also the personal investment the staff puts into each student’s success.
Journey Beyond Training
So, what comes after graduating from CDS? What can students expect after truck driving school?
Many new drivers begin with company-sponsored ride-alongs or mentorship programs, where they spend time on the road with a seasoned driver. This post-graduation period, often called “seat time,” helps new drivers transition from classroom learning to the demands of real-world trucking.
Take Joelito’s experience for example: After completing training, he moved quickly into a local driving position, armed with skills and confidence built during his time at CDS. He emphasized how critical mentorship was during those first weeks on the job, especially when facing unexpected road challenges.
CDS doesn’t just train students for the exam, they prepare them for how to be a successful truck driver long-term. With connections to reputable carriers and job placement assistance, many students find employment shortly after graduation.
Life as a Truck Driver
One of the most common questions we hear is: What to expect as a truck driver? The truth is, no two trucking careers are the same. Here’s a look at what many CDS graduates can expect:
Types of Jobs
Graduates often choose between:
- Local Routes – These jobs keep you close to home, usually allowing drivers to return daily. They’re great for those prioritizing family time and work-life balance.
- Regional Positions – Regional drivers travel within a few states and are usually home on weekends. It’s a solid middle ground between pay and home time.
- OTR (Over-the-Road) Driving – OTR drivers cover long distances across the country and may be gone for weeks. It offers high earning potential and a chance to see the country.
Each path has unique pros and cons. Local routes offer stability and more time with family, while OTR driving allows for farther travel, higher pay, and a greater sense of adventure.
Earning Potential
CDS graduates typically earn $60,000 or more in their first year, especially if they pursue additional endorsements like:
- Tanker
- Hazmat
- Doubles/Triples
These endorsements open doors to more specialized and higher-paying positions. Especially if you qualify for one of our many tuition assistance options, you’ll leave truck driving school headed down the right financial path.
Lifestyle Considerations
There are lifestyle trade-offs, of course. Life as a truck driver often means long hours, solitude, and time away from home. But for many, the sense of independence and job stability is worth it. Many drivers also enjoy scenic routes and the opportunity to visit parts of the country they may never have seen otherwise.
And for those with an entrepreneurial mindset, the long-term goal might be becoming an owner/operator, allowing for greater control over routes, schedules, and income.
Common Rookie Challenges
Even with thorough training, the first year on the road can be challenging. It’s a time of rapid learning, adjustment, and building confidence behind the wheel. New drivers often struggle with:
- Shifting errors, particularly in manual trucks – Smooth shifting takes time to master, and missing gears can be frustrating or even dangerous in traffic.
- Backing maneuvers in tight docks – Learning to accurately judge space and angles in crowded delivery areas can be overwhelming at first.
- Pre-trip inspections, where small oversights can lead to violations – Forgetting to check critical components like brake lines or lights can result in fines or safety hazards for yourself or other drivers.
- Time management, balancing HOS (Hours of Service) and delivery windows – New drivers must quickly learn how to plan routes, rest breaks, and fuel stops without running over their legal drive time.
With experience and support, most drivers overcome these early hurdles and grow into the role with confidence. Many online forums highlight these exact issues. Rookie drivers commonly admit to underestimating the importance of pre-trip checklists or misjudging turns early in their careers. But almost all of them emphasize the same point: you learn by doing. At CDS, students are encouraged to ask questions and learn from mistakes, an attitude that fosters success long after graduation.
Taking the Next Step in Your CDL Journey
If you’re considering attending CDL school in Virginia, CDS Tractor Trailer Training offers more than just a license. It offers a support system, real-world preparation, and a community of alumni who genuinely want to see you succeed. Many students receive job offers from top carriers before even graduating, thanks to our dedicated job placement team and partnerships.
From instructors like Mike and Amanda to enrollment advisors like Tara, CDS makes sure you’re not just trained, but truly ready. Whether you want to drive locally or cross-country, haul freight or hazardous materials, CDS equips you with the tools to succeed and thrive in the industry.
Are you a CDS graduate? Share your story on social media and tag us! Or, if you’re thinking about taking the leap, contact us today to learn more about enrollment, financial aid, or class schedules.