Frequently Asked Questions

• Most trucking companies will not hire inexperienced truck drivers unless they have attended a respectable and state licensed school with a training course curriculum of 160 hours. Employers realize that there is no substitute for the professional instruction students receive at Check Ride, it's that simple
• Obtaining the Commercial Drivers License (CDL) is not easy. Throughout the years tougher CDL testing standards implemented by the Department of Licensing have significantly decreased the possibility of obtaining a CDL unless professional truck driver training has been obtained

• At Check Ride job placement assistance is one of our highest priorities. Over the years we have established outstanding relationships with many local and over the road trucking companies that actively seek out and hire our graduates and it is not uncommon for many of our students to have jobs lined-up before they have graduated from the school. In addition, many trucking companies also offer tuition reimbursement or bonus packages that will repay the students enrollment tuition.

• The cleaner the driving record the better, but in most cases 3 moving violations or 2 preventable accidents within a 3 year period are acceptable. DUI convictions must be at least 3 years old.

• You must be able to pass the Department of Transportation (DOT) physical and drug test. Typically diabetes (Type 2) and uncontrollable high blood pressure could possibly disqualify you as a driver; however, these conditions can often be rectified by professional medical treatment
• Most people that are able to walk, sit (for an extended period), and lift 25 pounds or more are employable

• You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL License
• You must be at least 21 years old to drive interstate (state to state)

• Although the standards vary amongst companies, certain felonies and misdemeanors can affect employment possibilities. However, many of our graduates with past records are very successfully employed in the trucking industry and have proven to be real assets to their employers. Please see the admissions director for additional information.

• Class A (Combination Vehicle) = 4 weeks (160 hours) - Depending on progress
• Class B (Straight Truck) = 6 days (48 hours) - Depending on progress

• Monday-Thursday 10:00am-4:00pm, Fridays 10:00am-3:00pm (attendance requirements are based on students progress and are subject to change as necessary)

• Classes start every 4 weeks on a space available basis. Please see the attached schedule on the next page for the class start dates.

• Please click here to view detailed tuition information

• Cash, check, or credit cards (tuition can be paid on a weekly basis if desired and must be paid in full by the 3rd week of class)
• Government funding (WorkSource, L&I, VA, and many others. See admissions director for funding options)
• In-house financing may be available on approval of credit

• Down payment of $574.00 to hold your spot in class
• Student Interview Form filled out
• DOT Physical (Card & Long Form)
• Drug Screen
• Copy of Social Security Card (upon request)
• Valid WA. State Drivers License
• CDL Permit (encouraged to have before class but not mandatory)
• 5 year driving abstract (complete record)