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FAQ

I've been hauling products for a large corporation, but want to start out on my own. How much does it typically cost to start out on your own?
A tractor and trailer typically can cost anywhere from $150,000 to $200,000.  However, many truck driving companies offer lease programs that allow drivers to become owner operators by leasing trucking equipment from them at an affordable price.  We can match you with companies in your area that offer such programs. 

I was recently convicted of driving under the influence. How long will it take before I can return to by career in the truck driving industry?
The penalty for driving under the influence is a three year ban.

What states are located in the southwest United States?
For the purpose of this website, the Southwest United States includes New Mexico, Nevada, and Arizona, with parts of southern Utah, southern Colorado, and western Texas.

I've been away from the trucking industry for a few years, but I am interested in starting up again. Do I have to take the CDL test again?
Your CDL is valid for 4-8 years, depending on the state you live in. In most cases, the state in which you received your CDL will mail you renewal information at the appropriate time.  If you move to a different state, you may be required to retest for a new CDL issued in your new state.

Is the written CDL test the same in every state?
No, each state creates its own test, which must meet the minimum requirements set forth by the federal government and Department of Transportation.

What causes a trailer to jack-knife?
While several things may cause a trailer to jack-knife, in most cases it happens on wet or icy roads when the trailer begins to skid and begins to move faster than the tractor.  It is also more likely to happen with an empty or light trailer with little weight.

If I have my CDL, what endorsements can I qualify for?
You can qualify for passenger, tank vehicle, and hazardous materials endorsements, which will allow you to operate such commercial vehicles.

How do I obtain a HazMat endorsement?
In order to obtain a HazMat endorsement (which will enable you to drive hazardous materials), you must pass a comprehensive exam. The exam is required very time you renew the endorsement.

Are there many trucking jobs in the mining industry throughout the Southwest United States?
Yes. One of the important industries in most of the southwest states is mining for minerals such as copper, zinc, and gold. As a result, there is a high demand for truckers to haul this cargo to different parts of the country.

I've been working as an independent truck driver for several years, and would like to find a company to work for. What is the best way to go about doing that?
Southwest truck driving jobs are available for the agricultural and mining industries, as well as retail stores, lumber companies, and others. You can apply for a job on our application page and we will match you with truck driving companies that best fit your job wants and needs.