Yes, it's true you can get your CDL for free when you work for Caltrans, and they will train you on the job. A CDL on average will cost you anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 depending on your location. Sounds like a great deal, right? I will discuss in this blog post the steps I took to go from a Highway Maintenance Worker to a Caltrans Equipment Operator 2 through the Caltrans Fast-track program and get my CDL.
You can read my other posts about getting hired with Caltrans to get started on your journey because you must work at Caltrans to obtain your CDL for free. A quick mention that if you get hired as a S.A.M or P.I. Maintenance Worker you can still promote from any entry level position. So how this system works at Caltrans is you must past probation, 6 months, and obtain your permit. The best part is that Caltrans will allow you to go take the permit tests while at work, so you get paid to go and take the permit tests. You will need to take the basic tests like air brakes, combinations, general knowledge, and tanker which is needed for Caltrans. The final piece to complete and get your permit is to get a CDL physical which you can also do while at work.
Once you obtain your CDL permit your supervisor will begin the process of getting you into the Fast-track Program and getting you drive time. This part of the process can take some time depending on the time of the year, winter/snow season, and also the availability of trucks with a manual transmission. The required number of hours behind the wheel has changed since I have gone through the program so you're looking at about 40 hours or so. This will include some driving with a trailer on the highway and other tasks involving a 4-yard truck. It's always best to put yourself out there and volunteer to really get those hours. After obtaining the required amount of hours and getting a date for the Fast-track Program your that much closer to getting your CDL for free through Caltrans. I will be writing up a post about what to expect at the Fast-track Program.
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