CDL Requirements in New Hampshire
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a valid New Hampshire driver’s license
- Complete the CDL application form
- Submit medical certificate
- Pass vision test
- Pass applicable knowledge exams (passing grade of 80%)
- Complete the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
- Pass the road test
How to Select Truck Driving Schools in New Hampshire
When you’re trying to find a good CDL training school in New Hampshire, be aware that not all driving schools are made equal. Choosing a decent driving school may be a challenge when there are so many possibilities, each with its own set of fees, time commitments, and degree of instruction. These recommendations can help you choose a driving school that will help you obtain a good job in the future.
Which CDL Program is Right for You
There are two paths to get training:
- Go to a CDL school – select the school that’s best for you and pay for the tuition yourself, or apply for a CDL grant or scholarship if you qualify
- On-the-job training – you are hired as an employee of a trucking firm and as you’re getting trained through the company you’re getting paid. At the end of training, you have a truck driving job with the company and you’re required to stay with them typically for at least a year to two years.
Seek a Recognized Training Facility in your Area
Whether you get training through a trucking company or a private trucking school, you still need to make sure that the training is of good quality.
A comprehensive training facility is one of the factors to consider when selecting which truck driving school is right for you – is the classroom conducive for learning and is the driving facility outfitted that will give you proper practical training.
You want to make sure that the CDL school you’re considering is reputable and federally approved. Research the schools to see which ones are highly recommended by graduates – you can often find reviews online or perhaps go to the school and see if you can network with current trucking students.
Qualifications of the Trainer
The qualifications of the instructor are quite important in a training program. A good training school will hire instructors that have on-the-job training as well as years of experience. For example, an ex-truck driver would be an ideal candidate for the job. Before choosing a truck driving school, find out how qualified the teacher is.
See if you can talk to the instructors directly and get a feel for their attitude and personality. As mentioned above, try to speak to current students or graduates of the school to find out how the trainers are.
Criteria for a CDL
For your training program, you will have to put in a lot of time both in class and on the road. Choose a school that can assist you in meeting all of the criteria for your truck driving education.
Choosing a truck driving school may be difficult, but finding one that trains well and follows all the requirements for getting a CDL license is important. Prior to beginning a career as a truck driver, it is essential to consider your insurance needs as well.
CDL Tuition
The average cost of CDL training in New Hampshire is a little higher than in most states. It costs around $5,200 on average for a decent school. However, keep an eye out for the schools with below-average costs as the training quality may be the lowest as well.
However, you may not know this until you have invested the necessary time and money in the process. Although cost does not necessarily equate to quality, all of the variables listed above should be taken into account. You wouldn’t ever expect the greatest training to be available at the lowest possible price.
If the cost is too much to bear, consider financial assistance. However, only a few types of financial help are accepted by private CDL schools. Determine whether you are qualified for any grants, like the Pell Grant or financial assistance programs offered by the school of your choice.
Check out our guide to CDL grants and scholarships
Conclusion
When choosing a driving school, don’t make a hasty selection. Take your time and learn as much as you can. In order to locate a school that provides a superior education, you must first identify your needs. For students who want to initiate their truck driving profession in truck driving in New Hampshire, a good school can assist up to a large extent. Choose a school that provides top-notch driver education and support.
List of Trucking Schools in New Hampshire
TruckersTraining.com provide information, tools and resources to potential truck drivers in the U.S. We hope that you can use the content on the site to help you decide if want to drive trucks for a living.
