Are you a felon looking to have a career in the trucking industry? Don’t let your criminal record stop you from pursuing your dream job. there are truck driving schools that offers admission to felons.
This article will discuss some of the best truck driving schools in 2024 and how to find one that meets your needs.
We’ll also discuss the challenges felons may face when trying to enter into trucking and what steps they can take to put themselves in the best position possible for success.
By the end of this guide, you will better understand which schools are right for you.
Also, what steps you must take to start your journey toward a career in trucking
Benefits of Trucking for Felons
Truck driving can be an excellent option for felons seeking a career change. Not only can trucking provide excellent job satisfaction and financial stability.
But it can also allow felons to re-establish their independence and prove themselves in the workforce.
Here are some of the specific benefits of truck driving for felons:
1. Job Security
The trucking industry is expected to grow in the next decade so truck drivers will have plenty of job opportunities.
2. Flexible Schedules
Trucking jobs usually don’t require the same kind of 9-5 schedule as other types of employment.
This makes it easier for felons with family commitments or a need for more flexibility to take advantage of these positions.
3. Steady Paycheck
Many trucking jobs have good pay and benefits, making them much more attractive than other positions available to felons.
Plus, since they often involve long-distance haulage trips, there’s often an opportunity to make even more money by taking road trips beyond the normal route.
Requirements to Get Into Truck Driving Schools for Felons
If you’ve decided that you want to get started on your trucking career in 2023, then there are a few requirements that you’ll need to take care of beforehand.
These requirements are often very easy and straightforward to meet.
Age Requirement
First and foremost, you’ll need to be at least 21 years old. This age restriction is because, by law, interstate commercial drivers must be 21 or older.
License Requirements
You’ll also need to have a valid driver’s license. You don’t necessarily have to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL), but most programs do require it for you to be able to participate in training.
You may also need to get additional permits or endorsements depending on the type of truck you plan on driving or the materials that you will be hauling.
Background Check
Finally, truck driving schools usually require applicants to undergo background checks.
Generally, most felony convictions or serious traffic violations can disqualify applicants from participating in their program.
So potential students need to make sure they are aware of any issues from their past before applying for school admission.
Also, take the necessary steps to get an acceptance into a truck driving school program.
Finding a Truck Driving School, That’s Right for You
When it comes to finding the right truck-driving schools for felons, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
Here are a few tips to help you find a school that’s right for you:
Accreditation
The first thing to look for is accreditation. Accreditation is important because it indicates that the school follows standards set by a higher authority and meets specific criteria.
Look for schools accredited by state trucking boards or organizations, like the National Truck Driving School Association (NTDSA).
Cost
Cost is always an essential factor when choosing a trucking career. Look for schools that offer financing options or scholarships and grants.
You’ll also want to know what other costs may arise, such as licensing fees or equipment rental.
Experience
Look for experienced instructors with years of truck driving experience and Certified Professional Truck Drivers (CPTD).
You’ll want to know how many students they’ve taught and if they have any testimonials from former students.
Location
You’ll also want to consider location. Is the school located close enough to where you live?
What kind of environment will you be in while attending the school? Will there be other felons attending classes?
It’s essential that you feel safe and secure while you’re learning how to drive a truck.
These questions can help guide your decision-making process regarding finding the right truck driving school for your career goals in 2023.
You can find a truck with some research, time, an open mind, and dedication.
Understanding the Cost of Training
What is the cost of truck driving training? The cost of truck driving training will vary from school to school and also depend on which school you attend.
Some truck driving schools may have a tuition fee and charge for the materials needed for training.
Other schools might offer a tuition reimbursement program or a “pay-on-completion” option where you don’t have to pay a dime until your training is complete and you’re employed.
Tuition Cost
The estimated cost of tuition for a truck driving school can range anywhere from $3,000 to $7,500, depending on the type of school and its location.
Remember that this number can vary based on factors like whether or not you choose to live on-campus or off-campus, your rate of speed throughout the program, scholarships you may qualify for, and other financial aid opportunities like grants and loans.
Financing Options
If you don’t have the funds to pay for your entire tuition immediately, several financing options are available to help cover the cost.
There are loans available through loan officer programs tailored explicitly toward students interested in pursuing careers in trucking.
Additionally, several banks and lenders offer financing plans that break down your tuition into monthly payments.
These loans often feature low-interest rates as well as flexible payment plans.
Types of Trucking Licenses
If you’re interested in a trucking career and have a felony conviction, you must know what licenses are available.
There are several types of trucking licenses, depending on the cargo transported and the truck’s size.
Here’s a quick overview:
- Class A: This is for tractor-trailers that exceed 26,000 pounds in weight with multiple trailers attached. It also covers any vehicle with two or more axles combined, no matter their weight.
- Class B: This is for vehicles over 26,000 pounds but only one trailer attached. It also covers any vehicle with two or more axles combined, regardless of weight.
- Class C: This is for vehicles not exceeding 26,000 pounds but intended to carry hazardous materials such as tanks and hoppers. It may also cover housecars (RVs), placarded busses, and vehicles operated by those under 21 years old if they haul hazardous materials in specific amounts.
No matter which type of license you need to acquire your new career in truck driving, there are schools available that specialize in helping felons get back on track and into their dream jobs as professional drivers.
Truck Driving Schools that Accept Felons
Here are the best truck driving schools that accept people with felony charges:
1. Celadon Driving Academy
Celadon Driving Academy is the place to start if you’re a felon looking to get into truck driving.
The school’s classes are designed to meet all of the CDL requirements. With its comprehensive curriculum,
Celadon Driving Academy provides the training you need for a successful career in truck driving.
You’ll get behind-the-wheel experience and classroom instruction, and upon completion of your program, you’ll be fully qualified to obtain your CDL license.
Celadon offers a job placement program with national and regional trucking companies, which can provide a great starting point for new drivers.
Celadon also provides refresher courses for seasoned drivers to keep them up-to-date on industry trends and safety protocols.
Whether you’re just starting or looking for a refresher – Celadon Driving Academy is here to help you launch a successful career in truck driving.
2. Swift Driving Academy
Swift Transportation manages this trucking school. Hence they train drivers for jobs in their company.
The lengths of the programs can vary. A Class A CDL training course can be completed in as little as 17 days.
Felony cases are handled on an individual basis. Before applying, check with the school. They require a conviction form to disclose all relevant data.
However, they don’t accept those with DUI/DWI convictions within the last five years. In addition, no reckless driving convictions in the last three years.
3. Aduie Pyle Truck Driving Academy
They provide a 10-week CDL training program in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts.
This includes eight weeks of classroom instruction and 40 hours of driving practice. They also receive extensive CDL exam preparation.
The school provides training for tractor-trailer vehicles of all sizes. They also help students find employment.
The school has a complete facility, including lodging. Students can earn a paycheck while learning once enrolled, and their lodging is fully covered.
4. Lincoln Land Community College
This college in Illinois provides a good trucking certificate program. Within 4-6 weeks, students can obtain their Class A CDL. This includes classroom, on-the-job, map reading, and logbook instruction.
They run a Workforce Equity Initiative that is especially beneficial to minority students. The course is worth seven college credits when completed.
Employers pay them weekly in-person recruitment visits. This is an excellent opportunity for felons to meet with potential employers before graduating.
Financing Options Available to New Drivers
Are you starting your search for a truck driving school and wondering what financing options are available?
You’re in luck. Several financing options are available for those interested in pursuing a trucking career, even if you have a criminal record.
Here are some of the most common financing options:
Scholarships and Grants
Many companies offer scholarships or grants to those who qualify for their program, including those with a criminal record.
These are typically awarded based on the applicant’s financial need or merit, so be sure to research all available options to determine if this is an option for you.
Low-Interest Loans
You can get a low-interest loan from your bank or credit union if you don’t qualify for scholarships or grants.
They may also be willing to work with you if you have a criminal record, so it’s worth looking into.
Crowdfunding
Crowdfunding has become increasingly popular in the last few years, and it can be used to help pay for your tuition at truck driving school.
Platforms like Gofundme allow you to create your fundraising campaign, so this option is worth considering if you need other methods.
Whatever your situation, some financing option is likely available to help make going to truck driving school possible in 2023.
Research your options and ensure your loan or grant program meets your needs before signing on the dotted line.
Conclusion
Finding the right truck driving schools in 2023 for felons should be based on a few factors: Accreditation, cost, and an understanding of trucking jobs and the role felons can play in them.
With the proper knowledge, truck driving can be an excellent career for felons who want to make a fresh start or start a new life.
Truck driving can provide opportunities for upward mobility and financial stability. If you’re interested in trucking careers for felons, do your research and carefully consider the available truck driving schools.
With the right school and attitude, you can get the essential skills and experience you need to become a successful truck driver in 2023.
