Frequently Asked Questions | Trainco Truck Driving Schools

About the Trucking Industry

Q: How much do truck drivers make?
A: First-year, fresh-out-of-school drivers often make an average of $32-$38K annually. After one year’s experience, expect to make $45-$50K, and the pay just keeps going up from there.

Q: Are there a lot of truck driving jobs?
A: The trucking industry is booming! Trucking companies tell us they can’t hire enough drivers. The options for drivers with commercial drivers licenses (CDL) include over-the-road semi, local semi, straight truck, and bus driving.

Q: Will I get a local truck driving job?
A: Eventually, but in this economic downturn, be prepared to drive regionally or over the road for at least nine months in order to secure the experience you’ll need to win local positions.

Q: How long should I expect to be away from home?
A: Regional drivers usually return home at least once a week. Over-the-road drivers are out for longer periods, depending upon their company’s needs and loads.

Q: What kind of skills do I need to be a good truck driver?
A: All kinds of people go into trucking: men, women, younger people, retirees. Many do it as a second or even third career. We train a lot of military veterans returning from the service. And we’ve trained doctors, pilots, construction workers, and others who were just burned out and wanted to start fresh. All you need to succeed is the willingness to learn. Trainco will teach you all the classroom and hands-on skills you need to pass your CDL exam.

Q: Why shouldn’t I sign a contract for free training?
A: You’ve probably learned that “free” is rarely free. The no-strings-attached training offered by some schools actually winds up having all kinds of string attached: out-of-town permits and living arrangements, low per-mile hauling rates, extended contracts that lock you into many months of service in less-than-desirable conditions, and other difficulties. Don’t settle for less, or get locked into something that you will regret for years to come. Learn more about why you should choose Trainco instead.

About Trainco®

Q: How much does truck driving school cost?
A: Trainco’s tuition is $$4,995.00 – a small investment to qualify for a profitable career. And that’s only if you have to pay for it. Trainco is approved by both Michigan Works and the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services. Our Perrysburg, Ohio campus is VA-approved. And many trucking companies offer tuition reimbursement, including our partners at SWIFT Transportation. Learn more about our tuition.

Q: What is the length of the Class A CDL Program?
A: When it comes to CDL training, fast and furious is never the way – not if you plan to create responsible drivers safely guiding 80,000 pounds down the road! Trainco offers a 12 Day Automatic Transmission Program that meets from 7:00 am – 5:30 pm Monday through Friday. There is a 15 Day Manual Transmission Program to learn how to shift 10 speed transmissions. These programs cover the material and allow you to practice your new skills to operate a semi-tractor trailer. We produce the best CDL “A” drivers in the industry, and we know this is best accomplished with small classes and lots of face-to-face instructor/student interaction. Learn more about about what we cover in our Class A program.

Q: How do I know I’m getting quality training?
A: When you graduate from Trainco, you’ll be able to drop-and-hook that trailer correctly. You’ll make all manual logbook entries properly. You’ll shift those tractor gears smoothly. And best of all, thanks to consistent instruction by teachers who are expert former drivers, you’ll know the local, state and federal regulations for safely operating that combination vehicle. Learn more about our commitment to quality.

Q: What if I don’t pass my CDL test?
A: There’s a reason we say that we go the extra mile. If you don’t pass the test the first time, we’ll work with you on the specific areas you need to help you get it right the next time. We’re committed to your success.

Q: What is Trainco’s “Train and Stay” program?
A: Other truck driving schools claim to offer “train-and-stay” programs with excellent accommodations, but often students end up with substandard living arrangements. At Trainco, we understand that a mind well rested and a body well tended helps students perform at their best. We’re particular about the hotels we work with, personally checking out their facilities and meals. Whether you spend one night or reside several weeks, you’ll be pleased by Trainco’s booking of your stay at a highly rated Marriott Courtyard, Holiday Inn Express, or Ramada Inn. Contact us to learn more.

Q. What is your Disability Accommodations Policy?
TrainCo is committed to providing equal training opportunities to qualified individuals with disabilities and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as amended by the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA). Consistent with this commitment, TRAINCO will provide a reasonable accommodation to disabled students if the reasonable accommodation would allow the individual to perform the essential functions of the CDL training, unless doing so would create an undue hardship. Learn more about our Disability Accommodations Policy.

Q: I’m a training supervisor. Can Trainco provide custom instruction for my employees?
A: Yes, Trainco offers a Skid Master program and an Entry-Level Commercial Motor Vehicle Operations program for employee drivers. Our staff of experienced instructors also provides custom seminar training in areas of commercial driver licensing to meet your needs. Learn more about our contract training options.