If you are hoping to obtain your commercial driver's license, you will a DOT training certificate. You can receive this by attending a DOT training course. This should be done before you take a driving test. Your employer may offer the training onsite or you can find a class on your own. Classes are available at seminars and workshops, or you may take it online. Contact the local Department of Transportation to find what is being offered in your area. Here is what you can expect to learn during training.

Driver Qualifications

This section should help you to understand what you need to qualify as a commercial driver. In addition to telling you about the driving test, you will learn about the medical examination you need. It is also important that the class explains to you the things that may cause you to be disqualified. This should include information about your responsibilities as a driver.

How Much You Can Drive

As a commercial driver, there are restrictions on how much time you can spend behind the wheel. This is for safety purposes and should not be considered a punishment or some way to limit the amount of money you can make. You will learn how to keep track of your driving hours in a way that will comply with DOT inspections, so you are not fined, put on driving probation, or suspended. You will also a few tips to help you fight fatigue, so you do not crash before you can get to the nearest rest stop.

Driver Wellness

There are certain medical conditions that may limit the amount you can drive, the length of time your license will be issued for, and/or cause suspension or disqualification. If you have one of these conditions, you will need to understand what you need to do to keep your license and be able to work. Most conditions will have specific conditions you must adhere to.

Whistle blowing

At some point, you may have an employer, or be contracted by someone who does not follow all the DOT requirements. They may expect you to work more than you are allowed to work or have you carry hazardous materials in an unsafe manner. You have a responsibility and right to report this to the DOT without having to worry about any retaliation from the boss. Your training will tell you how you can go about this.

Becoming a commercial driver can be an exciting and fun career. However, it is not as simple as passing a driving test in a big rig. Go through the DOT training course to better understand what the job entails and what you will need to do to bet the job. Contact a training service for more DOT compliance help.