Having a CDL does not necessarily mean you will feel ready to climb back into a tractor-trailer after months or years away from professional driving. Commercial driving requires skills that become stronger with consistent practice, from backing and maneuvering to pre-trip inspections and managing a large vehicle in traffic.

That is why experienced drivers sometimes search for CDL refresher classes before returning to the trucking industry.

CDL refresher training can help drivers rebuild confidence, practice important commercial driving skills, and identify areas that need improvement before pursuing their next driving opportunity. It can be particularly useful for CDL holders who have spent significant time away from commercial vehicles or want additional hands-on practice before applying for a new position.

Progressive Truck Driving School provides comprehensive CDL training programs built around practical commercial driving skills and preparation for careers in the transportation industry.

What Are CDL Refresher Classes?

CDL refresher classes are designed to help drivers review and strengthen commercial driving skills they previously learned.

Unlike entry-level CDL training, a refresher course is generally aimed at someone who already has commercial driving experience or previously completed CDL training but needs additional practice.

Depending on the driver’s experience and needs, refresher training may focus on areas such as:

• Pre-trip vehicle inspections
• Straight-line and offset backing
• Parallel parking
• Coupling and uncoupling
• Proper turning techniques
• Tractor-trailer maneuvering
• Highway and interstate driving
• Vehicle control
• Defensive driving
• Safety procedures

The objective is simple: identify the skills that need attention and give the driver an opportunity to become more comfortable performing them again.

For a closer look at the commercial driving skills covered during training, review Progressive’s Training Overview.

Who Should Consider CDL Refresher Training?

There is no single type of driver who searches for a CDL refresher course.

You may want to consider additional training if:

• You earned your CDL but have not driven commercially in some time
• You previously worked as a truck driver and are returning to the industry
• You want more practice with backing or vehicle control
• You have limited recent tractor-trailer experience
• You want to rebuild confidence before applying for driving jobs
• A prospective employer wants evidence of recent driving experience or additional preparation
• You completed CDL training but do not feel confident in certain driving skills

The amount of training a driver needs can vary considerably. Someone who has been away from trucking for several months may have very different needs from someone returning after several years.

That is why drivers considering refresher training should discuss their experience, CDL status, and career goals with the school before choosing a training option.

Do You Have to Take ELDT Again for CDL Refresher Training?

Not necessarily. This is an important distinction for returning CDL drivers.

Federal Entry-Level Driver Training requirements primarily apply to drivers obtaining a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time, upgrading from a Class B CDL to a Class A CDL, or obtaining certain endorsements for the first time.

If you currently hold or previously held a Class A or Class B CDL, federal rules generally do not require you to complete ELDT again for the same CDL class simply because you have been away from commercial driving.

However, your situation can change if you are upgrading your CDL or pursuing certain new endorsements.

That is why drivers should distinguish between CDL refresher training and federally required Entry-Level Driver Training. Refresher training focuses on rebuilding or strengthening existing driving skills, while ELDT is a federal requirement that applies to specific CDL and endorsement applicants.

Progressive Truck Driving School is an FMCSA-registered ELDT provider. You can learn more about our curriculum and federal training requirements through our CDL Training Overview.

What Skills Should You Refresh Before Returning to Truck Driving?

One of the biggest advantages of a truck driving refresher course is the opportunity to focus on practical skills that may become less familiar after time away from the road.

Pre-Trip Inspections

Commercial drivers need to know how to systematically inspect a vehicle and identify potential safety concerns. Reviewing the inspection process can help restore a driver’s routine and confidence.

Backing and Maneuvering

Backing a tractor-trailer requires spatial awareness, patience, and repetition. Drivers returning after an extended absence may benefit from additional practice with straight-line backing, parking, and other low-speed maneuvers.

Turning and Vehicle Positioning

Commercial vehicles require significantly more space than passenger vehicles. Refresher training can help drivers become comfortable again with proper turning, lane positioning, clearance, and space management.

Road and Highway Driving

Getting back onto public roads may be one of the biggest hurdles for a returning driver. Practicing local, highway, and interstate driving can help restore familiarity with speed management, traffic awareness, merging, following distance, and defensive driving.

Coupling, Uncoupling, and Equipment Knowledge

Drivers may also want to review coupling and uncoupling procedures, vehicle systems, controls, and other equipment-related skills before returning to professional driving.

These are many of the same practical skills emphasized throughout Progressive’s CDL training programs.

How Long Are CDL Refresher Classes?

There is no universal amount of refresher training that is right for every CDL driver.

The appropriate amount of training can depend on:

• How long you have been away from commercial driving
• Your previous driving experience
• Your current CDL status
• The type of equipment you previously operated
• The skills you want to improve
• Your intended type of employment
• Employer requirements

A driver with years of previous tractor-trailer experience may only need help rebuilding confidence in certain areas. Someone with limited previous experience may need more extensive practice.

Rather than choosing a program based solely on duration, focus on whether the training addresses the skills you actually need to improve.

Can CDL Refresher Training Help You Get a Truck Driving Job?

Refresher training does not guarantee employment, but recent practice can help drivers feel better prepared to return to the job market.

Employers establish their own hiring standards, and factors such as driving history, recent experience, CDL status, endorsements, and company insurance requirements can affect eligibility.

For returning drivers, being able to demonstrate current knowledge and practical driving skills may make the transition back into trucking easier.

Progressive also provides Job Placement Assistance to graduates, helping qualified drivers understand employment opportunities and connect with companies seeking commercial drivers.

What Should You Look for in CDL Refresher Classes Near You?

If you are comparing CDL refresher classes near me, do not make your decision based solely on price or distance.

Look for training that gives you an opportunity to work on the skills that matter behind the wheel.

Important factors to consider include:

• Hands-on commercial vehicle training
• Experienced instructors
• Opportunities to practice backing and maneuvering
• Pre-trip inspection review
• Real-world driving preparation
• Training that matches your current skill level
• Career and job placement resources

You should also be clear about your goals before contacting a school.

Are you trying to return to trucking after several years away? Do you need additional practice before approaching employers? Are you uncomfortable with one particular skill? Has an employer asked you to complete additional training?

The clearer you are about why you need refresher training, the easier it is to determine what type of instruction may be appropriate.

Getting Back on the Road Starts With the Right Preparation

Returning to professional truck driving can open the door to new career opportunities, but you should feel prepared when you get back behind the wheel.

CDL refresher training can provide experienced or previously trained drivers with an opportunity to review essential skills, rebuild confidence, and prepare for the next stage of their careers.

If you are considering CDL refresher classes and want to discuss your training needs, contact Progressive Truck Driving School to speak with our team about your experience, goals, and available training options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people are interested in starting a trucking career but hesitate to apply because of past driving issues.

One of the most common questions prospective students ask is: 

Can You Get a CDL With a Bad Driving Record?

In many cases, yes. Having a bad driving record does not automatically disqualify you from obtaining a CDL. However, your eligibility depends on the severity of violations, how recent they are, and whether your license is currently valid.

The good news is that many drivers with previous violations still qualify for CDL training and eventually build successful careers in trucking.

What CDL Schools and Employers Look At

Before enrolling in CDL training, schools and employers typically review:

• Your current driver’s license status
• DUI or alcohol-related offenses
• Major traffic violations
• Suspensions or revocations
• Accident history
• Criminal background concerns related to driving

The goal is to determine whether you meet state and federal CDL eligibility requirements.

If you are considering enrollment, you can learn more about our CDL training programs and admissions process.

What Types of Violations Can Affect CDL Eligibility?

Not all driving violations carry the same weight.

Some offenses may temporarily delay your ability to obtain a CDL, while others can create longer-term restrictions.

Common Issues That May Affect CDL Eligibility

DUI or Alcohol Violations

DUI convictions are one of the biggest factors in CDL eligibility decisions.

Depending on the state and timing:

• A first DUI may result in a temporary CDL disqualification
• Multiple DUI offenses can create longer restrictions
• Open alcohol violations may prevent immediate enrollment

However, many drivers become eligible again after meeting state reinstatement requirements.

Suspended or Revoked License

You generally cannot begin CDL training if:

• Your driver’s license is currently suspended
• Your license has been revoked
• You have unresolved legal or administrative holds

Before applying to CDL school, your driving privileges usually need to be reinstated.

Excessive Traffic Violations

Repeated violations may raise concerns for schools and employers.

Examples include:

• Reckless driving
• Excessive speeding
• Hit-and-run violations
• Driving without insurance
• Serious moving violations

A pattern of recent offenses may make employers cautious, especially for entry-level drivers.

Can You Still Go to CDL School With Violations?

In many situations, yes.

CDL schools often work with students who have:

• Older driving violations
• Past license suspensions
• Prior accidents
• Non-commercial driving issues

What matters most is:

• Whether your license is currently valid
• Whether you are legally eligible to obtain a CDL
• Whether enough time has passed since major violations

If you are unsure, speaking directly with admissions is often the best first step.

You can contact our admissions team to discuss your specific situation confidentially.

Do Trucking Companies Hire Drivers With Bad Driving Records?

Some do and some do not.

Hiring standards vary significantly between companies.

Many carriers focus heavily on:

• Recent violations within the last 3 to 5 years
• Overall safety record
• DUI history
• Accident patterns

Entry-level drivers with clean recent records often still qualify for opportunities even if they had older issues in the past.

This is why completing quality CDL training and maintaining a strong safety record afterward becomes extremely important.

How to Improve Your Chances of CDL Approval

If you are concerned about your driving history, there are steps you can take.

Ways to Strengthen Your CDL Eligibility

• Resolve any active license suspensions
• Pay outstanding fines or tickets
• Maintain a clean driving record moving forward
• Avoid additional moving violations
• Be honest during the admissions process
• Complete professional CDL training

Even drivers with past mistakes can improve their future opportunities by showing responsibility and consistency.

Why Many People With Past Violations Still Pursue Trucking

Many successful CDL drivers did not start with perfect records.

The trucking industry offers opportunities for people looking to:

• Rebuild financially
• Change careers
• Develop stable income
• Enter a high-demand field

As long as you meet legal CDL requirements and demonstrate responsibility, a previous driving issue does not always define your future.

You can also learn more about our job placement support services available to graduates.

Is It Worth Applying Even If You’re Unsure?

Absolutely.

Many prospective students assume they are disqualified when they may still qualify for training or future employment opportunities.

Every situation is different.

Factors like:

• Time since violations
• Severity of offenses
• License status
• Recent driving history

all play a role in determining CDL eligibility.

The best way to find out is to speak with a knowledgeable admissions team that understands CDL regulations and hiring standards.

The Verdict?

Yes, you can often get a CDL with a bad driving record, depending on your specific circumstances.

While serious violations like DUIs and suspensions can affect eligibility temporarily, many drivers still qualify for CDL training after meeting state requirements.

The key is:

• Maintaining a valid license
• Improving your driving history
• Completing professional CDL training
• Building a clean record moving forward

A past mistake does not automatically prevent you from building a successful trucking career.

Start Exploring Your CDL Options Today

If you are interested in CDL training but unsure about your eligibility, Progressive Truck Driving School can help guide you through the process.

Our team can answer questions about:

• CDL eligibility
• License requirements
• Training programs
• Career opportunities
• Enrollment options

Contact Progressive Truck Driving School today to learn more about getting started.

Frequently Asked Questions

When starting a trucking career, many new drivers hear about the earning potential of becoming an owner-operator. Owning your own truck and running your own business can sound appealing, especially when you see reports of higher revenue per load.

However, the reality is that most successful drivers start their careers as company drivers first.

Many new CDL students ask:

Is It Better to Be a Company Driver or Owner-Operator Starting Out?

For most new CDL drivers, starting as a company driver is the best path. It allows you to gain real-world driving experience, learn the industry, and build financial stability before taking on the responsibilities and risks of owning a truck.

Let’s look at why this approach is considered the standard path in the trucking industry.

What Is a Company Driver?

A company driver operates a truck owned by a trucking company. The employer provides the equipment, handles maintenance, and manages freight contracts.

Company drivers typically receive:

• A set pay structure (per mile, hourly, or salary)
• Health and retirement benefits
• Paid training or orientation
• Maintenance and fuel covered by the employer

This structure allows new drivers to focus on learning the job without worrying about the business side of trucking.

Many trucking companies recruit directly from CDL training schools. You can explore Our Training Programs here.

What Is an Owner-Operator?

An owner-operator is an independent trucking business owner who either owns or leases their truck and contracts with freight brokers or carriers.

Owner-operators are responsible for:

• Truck payments or lease agreements
• Fuel costs
• Insurance
• Maintenance and repairs
• Taxes and business expenses
• Finding and negotiating freight loads

While revenue can be higher, expenses can also be significant.

According to industry estimates from the American Trucking Associations, operating costs for a truck can exceed $1.70 per mile when factoring in fuel, maintenance, and equipment costs.

This means income depends heavily on managing expenses and securing consistent freight.

Company Driver vs. Owner-Operator Comparison

Because of the financial risk involved, most carriers recommend gaining experience before becoming an owner-operator.

Why New CDL Drivers Usually Start as Company Drivers

Starting as a company driver offers several advantages for new graduates.

1. Real-World Driving Experience

Driving school prepares you to pass the CDL exam, but the first year of professional driving teaches you:

• Route planning
• Load securement
• Real-world safety conditions
• Customer and delivery procedures

Most trucking companies want drivers to gain at least one to two years of experience before transitioning into independent operations.

If you’re preparing for your CDL career, Our Training Overview explains how new drivers develop these skills.

2. Financial Stability

Operating a truck is expensive.

New owner-operators must manage:

• Equipment payments
• Insurance premiums
• Unexpected mechanical repairs
• Fuel price fluctuations

Company drivers avoid these expenses while earning steady income and building savings.

3. Industry Knowledge

Working as a company driver helps you understand:

• Freight lanes
• Carrier operations
• Dispatch systems
• Load boards
• Customer expectations

This knowledge becomes extremely valuable if you decide to run your own trucking business later.

Many drivers transition to owner-operator after gaining experience and industry connections.

You can also explore Our Job Placement support after CDL training.

When Do Drivers Become Owner-Operators?

Many drivers consider becoming owner-operators after:

• 2–5 years of driving experience
• Building strong credit
• Saving capital for truck ownership
• Understanding freight markets

By that time, drivers are better prepared to handle the financial and operational responsibilities of running a trucking business.

Is Becoming an Owner-Operator Worth It?

For experienced drivers, becoming an owner-operator can offer:

• Higher earning potential
• Greater schedule flexibility
• Business ownership opportunities

However, it also involves greater financial risk and responsibility.

That’s why starting as a company driver is widely considered the safest and most practical entry into the industry.

Owner-Operator vs Company Driver

While the idea of owning your own truck can be appealing, the most common path for new CDL drivers is to start as a company driver.

This allows you to:

• Gain valuable driving experience
• Earn steady income
• Learn the trucking industry
• Avoid major financial risk early in your career

After building experience and financial stability, many drivers choose to transition into owner-operator roles later.

If you’re ready to begin your CDL training and start your trucking career the right way, Contact Progressive Truck Driving School today!

Many people consider getting a CDL but worry about one major lifestyle change: being away from home for weeks at a time.

The good news is that long-haul trucking is only one career path in the industry.

Many new drivers ask:

Can You Get a Local Trucking Job With No Experience?

Yes, it is possible to get a local trucking job with no experience. Just note, by no-experience, we refer to drivers who have not been employed as a driver yet, not prospective drivers who have not received at least a Class A or B CDL.

Many companies, especially LTL carriers, beverage distributors, food service companies, and regional delivery fleets regularly hire CDL graduates for home-daily routes.

While some positions require experience, others actively recruit new drivers from CDL training programs. Like with most careers, the key term to look out for on your first job is “Entry Level.”

Let’s look at some of the most common entry-level jobs that allow new drivers to be home every night.

1. LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) Freight Companies

LTL carriers transport smaller freight shipments that do not require a full trailer load. Because these shipments move between local terminals, many routes are structured around short regional runs.

LTL drivers often:

• Start and end their shift at the same terminal
• Operate regional delivery routes
• Return home daily or nightly
• Earn competitive hourly pay or mileage pay

Many large LTL carriers hire new CDL graduates through driver training programs or dock-to-driver pathways.

Examples of major LTL companies include:

• FedEx Freight
• Old Dominion Freight Line
• XPO Logistics
• Estes Express Lines

You can learn more about the LTL freight industry through the American Trucking Associations.

These companies often prefer graduates from structured CDL training programs. Explore Our CDL Programs.

2. Beverage Delivery Drivers

Beverage distribution is one of the most common home-daily jobs for new CDL drivers.

Companies delivering:

• Soda
• Beer
• Bottled water
• Energy drinks

These positions often involve new drivers operating local delivery routes that restock grocery stores, restaurants, and convenience stores.

Beverage drivers typically:

• Work daytime delivery routes
• Return to the distribution center daily
• Handle physical unloading of products
• Earn strong starting pay with overtime potential

While the job can be physically demanding, many new drivers appreciate the predictable schedule and stable income. Beverage Delivery is in many ways a young person’s game, both for the labor requirement, and its popularity as a break-in position for the trucking industry.

3. Food Service Distribution

Food distribution companies deliver products to restaurants, schools, and institutions.

Jobs are sourced from large companies such as:

• Sysco
• US Foods
• Gordon Food Service

These companies regularly hire new CDL drivers and provide structured training programs.

These routes are usually:

• Local or regional
• Night or early morning delivery schedules
• Home daily

Because food service involves unloading freight, companies often hire new drivers willing to perform physical work.

4. Local Construction & Dump Truck Driving

Construction companies frequently hire Class B and sometimes Class A drivers for local hauling jobs.

Typical vehicles include:

• Dump trucks
• Cement mixers
• Flatbed construction trucks

These roles usually operate within a local radius and follow daytime construction schedules.

Why Some Local Jobs Hire New CDL Graduates

Many industries prefer hiring drivers directly out of CDL school because they can train them according to company standards.

New drivers often bring:

• Clean driving records
• Up-to-date CDL training
• Knowledge of federal safety regulations
• Familiarity with modern equipment

Schools with strong employer connections can make a big difference when entering the job market.

Need more information or a hand in the job-search? Learn about our Job Placement Assistance.

Tips for Getting a Home-Daily Job With a New CDL

If your goal is to stay local, keep these strategies in mind:

• Apply to distribution companies rather than long-haul carriers
• Look for LTL terminal hiring programs
• Ask about local dedicated routes
• Consider physically active jobs like beverage or food delivery
• Work with training schools that partner with local employers

Starting with the right employer often determines whether you drive locally or over the road.

Is a “Home Daily” CDL Career Realistic?

Simply put, yes!

While over-the-road trucking receives most of the attention, a large portion of the trucking industry operates locally.

Industries like food distribution, LTL freight, beverage delivery, and construction hauling rely heavily on drivers who start and finish their shift in the same city.

These jobs provide:

• Daily home time
• Consistent schedules
• Competitive pay
• Opportunities for long-term career growth

Can you get Home Daily jobs with little experience?

Again, yes! You can get a local trucking job with home-daily hours with no on-the-job experience.

Many new CDL graduates begin their careers in:

• LTL freight companies
• Beverage delivery routes
• Food distribution fleets
• Construction hauling operations

The key is choosing the right CDL training program and connecting with employers who hire new drivers.

If you’re ready to start training for a CDL and explore home-daily career opportunities, Contact Progressive Truck Driving School today!

If you’re thinking about starting a trucking career, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is how to get your CDL.

Two of the most common paths are:

• Paid CDL training through a trucking company
• Enrolling in a private CDL school

Many beginners ask:

Is Paid CDL Training or a Private CDL School Better?

For most new drivers, a private CDL school is the better option. It provides more flexibility, better job options, and long-term career freedom compared to company-sponsored paid training, which often comes with contracts and restrictions.

Let’s break down both options so you can make the right decision.

What Is Paid CDL Training?

Paid CDL training, also called company-sponsored training, is when a trucking company covers the cost of your CDL training in exchange for a work commitment.

Typically, this means:

• The company pays for your training upfront
• You agree to work for them for a set period, often 6 to 12 months
• Training is tied directly to employment with that company

Some programs also provide:

• Weekly training pay
• Housing during training
• A guaranteed job after completion

While this can sound appealing, there are trade-offs.

What Is a Private CDL School?

A private CDL school allows you to pay for your training independently and choose where you want to work after graduation.

At a school like Progressive Truck Driving School, you get:

• Structured CDL training focused on real-world driving
• Hands-on experience with modern equipment
• Flexibility to choose your employer after graduation
• Job placement assistance with multiple companies

Learn more about Progressive’s Training Programs.

Key Differences Between Paid CDL Training and Private CDL School

1. Freedom to Choose Your Job

With paid CDL training:

• You must work for the sponsoring company
• Leaving early can result in penalties or repayment

With a private CDL school:

• You can choose from multiple employers
• You are not locked into one company
• You can pursue local, regional, or over-the-road jobs

This flexibility is one of the biggest advantages of private CDL training.

2. Income and Pay Potential

Paid CDL training programs often start drivers at:

• Lower pay rates during the contract period
• Limited route options

Private CDL school graduates can:

• Compare job offers
• Choose higher-paying positions
• Access more opportunities right away

We also encourage you to explore Job Placement Opportunities.

3. Training Quality and Focus

Company-sponsored training is designed to quickly prepare drivers for that company’s needs.

This often means:

• Shorter training timelines
• Less focus on broad skill development
• Training tailored to one type of operation

Private CDL schools provide:

• More comprehensive instruction
• Hands-on driving across multiple scenarios
• Preparation for a wider range of jobs

You can review Our Training Approach.

4. Financial Considerations

Paid CDL training:

• No upfront tuition
• May include repayment if you leave early
• Lower starting wages during contract

Private CDL school:

• Requires upfront payment or financing
• Offers more long-term earning potential
• May include financial aid or payment plans

Many schools offer options to help make training affordable. Learn more on our Admissions Page.

5. Career Flexibility

With paid training, your early career is tied to one company.

With private CDL training, you can:

• Switch companies more easily
• Choose local or home-daily jobs
• Explore specialized driving roles

This flexibility can significantly impact your long-term career growth.

Which Option Is Best for You?

Paid CDL Training May Be Better If:

• You cannot afford upfront tuition
• You are comfortable committing to one company
• You want a guaranteed job immediately

Private CDL School Is Better If:

• You want flexibility in choosing your employer
• You want access to better-paying opportunities
• You prefer more comprehensive training
• You want control over your career path

Why Many Drivers Choose Private CDL Schools

Most experienced drivers recommend starting with a private CDL school because it gives you:

• Greater control over your career
• Better job options after graduation
• Stronger foundational skills
• Freedom to pursue different types of driving jobs

Instead of being locked into one company, you can build your career on your terms.

So Who’s the Winner?

Both paid CDL training and private CDL schools can help you get your license. However, they lead to very different career paths.

Paid training offers a low-cost entry point but limits your options early on.

Private CDL schools provide flexibility, stronger training, and better long-term opportunities.

If you are serious about building a successful trucking career, choosing the right training path matters from the start.

If you’re ready to explore CDL training and take control of your future, Contact Progressive Truck Driving School today!

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