Trucking

The trucking industry faces a shortage of about 80,000 drivers, according to the American Trucking Associations. Demand for qualified CDL holders is high, and the right preparation makes a measurable difference in whether candidates pass on the first attempt. This guide covers the 12 strategies that matter most. Source: Driving-Tests.org CDL program data. Individual school results may vary.

Key Takeaways

• Study your state's CDL manual — every test question comes directly from this book.
• Take practice tests daily for at least one week — they reveal weak spots and build test familiarity.
• Master the pre-trip inspection — it's one of the top failure points on the skills test.
• Memorize exact numbers — examiners expect precise answers on PSI, tread depths, and distances.
• Practice backing maneuvers more than anything else — it's the single most common failure point on the skills test.
• Enroll in a professional training program — some structured programs report pass rates of 95% or higher, compared to a national average of around 50%.

1. Study the CDL Manual Thoroughly

Your state's CDL manual is your primary resource. Every question on the knowledge test comes from this book. Download the California CDL handbook here.

How to study it effectively

• Read it a minimum of three times — first for familiarity, then for retention.
• Focus only on sections that match your license class. Skip passenger and school bus chapters unless you need those endorsements.
• Mark key numbers and measurements as you go. Write summary notes in your own words.
• Use flashcards for specific numbers, measurements, and procedures.
• Start several weeks out. Daily study beats cramming every time.

2. Take CDL Practice Tests Regularly

Practice tests show you exactly where you stand before test day. Plan to take them daily for at least one week leading up to your exam.

Where to find free practice tests

• Driving-Tests.org — general knowledge, air brakes, HazMat, school bus, and pre-trip. Includes manual-based explanations.
• CristCDL.com — free since 1999, no sign-up, unlimited attempts. Questions pulled directly from each state's DMV manual.

Start in study guide mode to learn the material, then switch to timed mode to simulate real test pressure. Retake as many times as needed.

3. Enroll in a Professional CDL Training Program

Self-study works for some people, but structured programs offer something books can't: time behind the wheel in a real truck with an experienced instructor. National first-time pass rates for CDL knowledge tests hover around 50%, according to data from Driving-Tests.org. Some structured training programs report pass rates of 95% or higher for candidates who complete their programs. These programs combine classroom instruction with actual behind-the-wheel practice, which books alone can't provide.

What to look for in a CDL school

• FMCSA approval — confirms the school meets federal safety and training standards. Verify this before enrolling.
• Student-to-instructor ratio — programs with 3:1 ratios give you more one-on-one time. Larger classes mean less individual attention.
• Job placement assistance — schools with carrier connections can move you from training to a paying job faster.
• Cost and financing — programs typically run $3,000 to $10,000. Company-sponsored options can drop this to as little as $155 in exchange for a driving commitment. Many schools offer scholarships and military benefits.

Most full-time programs run 3 to 6 weeks. Part-time options stretch to 3 months

4. Master the Pre-Trip Inspection

The pre-trip inspection is one of the most common failure points on the CDL skills test. You must name each part, point to it, and explain what problems you're looking for. Vague language and missed components result in automatic failure.

The 7-Point Inspection System

• Engine compartment: fluid levels, belts, hoses
• In-vehicle checks: gauges, brakes, emergency equipment
• Front of vehicle: lights, leaks, steering components
• Sides of vehicle: mirrors, fuel tanks, battery
• Rear of vehicle: lights and reflectors
• Coupling devices (combination vehicles): fifth wheel, air lines
• Trailer: damage, proper equipment

Common mistakes that cause failures

• Using vague or informal language instead of exact manual terminology
• Skipping the air brake test — this is an automatic failure
• Failing to state the exact tread depth: 4/32" for steer tires
• Rushing through or losing your order mid-inspection

5. Memorize Critical Numbers and Measurements

When examiners ask about air brake pressures, tire tread depths, or following distances, they expect exact answers. "Around" and "approximately" are not acceptable responses during testing. Sources: FMCSA regulations; state CDL manuals. Air brake pressure ranges may vary slightly by vehicle manufacturer.

6. Practice Backing Maneuvers Extensively

Backing maneuvers are the single most common failure point on the CDL skills test. The Basic Control Skills Test now includes 4 exercises in tighter spaces. Examiners choose from six possible maneuvers.

The 6 possible backing exercises

• Straight-line backing — reverse between cone rows without hitting boundaries
• Offset backing — back left or right into a space beside your starting position
• Parallel parking (driver side) — standard parallel into a marked space
• Parallel parking (conventional) — right-side approach
• Alley docking — rear bumper must land within 3 feet of the end of the space
• Reverse offset backing — combines parallel and offset moves; rear bumper must land inside a 3-foot box

Scoring rules to know before you start

• Crossing a boundary line: 2 points
• Extra pull-up: 1 point
• Automatic failure: 13 points total
• Free moves: 1 pull-up + 1 look (straight-line); 2 of each (offset)

Key technique: steering is reversed when backing. Turn the wheel opposite to the direction you want the trailer to go. Use idle speed and small corrections — large wheel movements push you off course.

7. Understand Air Brake Systems Inside Out

The air brakes endorsement requires both theory and hands-on inspection knowledge. This is the single hardest portion of the CDL exam — 80% of first-time applicants fail it.

Key components and what they do

• Air compressor — pressurizes air and sends it to storage tanks; runs continuously with the engine
• Governor — controls when the compressor pumps; cuts in around 100 psi, cuts out between 110-130 psi
• Air storage tanks — hold enough reserve for 10-12 full brake applications if the compressor fails
• Brake chambers — convert compressed air into mechanical force that stops the truck
• Slack adjuster — connects the pushrod to the S-cam, which forces brake shoes against the drum
• Spring brakes — emergency system; engage automatically if air pressure drops too low

Air brake inspection steps (in order)

• Turn the key on, then fan the service brake below 90 psi
• Start the engine and wait for the governor to cut out between 120-140 psi
• Press both truck and trailer air valves
• Run leakage test: hold service brake for 60 seconds and check for pressure drop

8. Get Plenty of Behind-the-Wheel Practice

Book knowledge prepares you for the written exam. Seat time builds the skills to pass the skills test. Most training programs structure it this way:

Typical training progression

Week 2 — Straight-line backing, basic shifting, pre-trip practice Week 3 — Offset backing, alley docking, turning techniques Week 4 — Road driving on city streets, highways, and varying traffic conditions After every session: write down what went well and what gave you trouble. Use those notes to guide your next study period.

9. Learn From Experienced Instructors

Federal rules require CDL instructors to hold a valid CDL and at least two years of commercial driving experience. Their hands-on background gives you access to practical knowledge that textbooks don't cover.

Questions to ask before you enroll

• Have they driven long-haul routes in difficult conditions?
• Have they handled brake failures, blown tires, or emergency situations?
• Do they adjust their teaching based on how individual students learn?

Strong instructors will give you extra time on weak areas — parallel parking, pre-trip inspection, backing — without rushing through the material to stay on schedule.

10. Create a Structured Study Schedule

You must hold your Commercial Learner's Permit for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test. Use every one of those days with a plan.

Days 1-3	General knowledge and pre-trip inspection basics
Days 4-6	Air brakes: components, pressure numbers, and inspection steps
Days 7-9	Combination vehicles: coupling, uncoupling, and combination rules
Days 10-12	Full practice tests — use scores to target weak areas
Days 13-14	Light review only. Do not cram the night before.

Study in 45-minute sessions with short breaks in between. Silence your phone. Set a specific goal for each session — a number of pages, or one complete inspection section.

11. Stay Calm and Manage Test Day Anxiety

Nerves are normal. The candidates who perform best on test day treat it like another training session rather than a high-pressure performance.

12. Know Why People Fail — and Avoid the Same Mistakes

Source: California DMV, Statewide Evaluation of CDL Written Knowledge Tests (Research Report RSS-08-225, 2008). California-specific data; results may vary by state. Understanding where candidates typically fail gives you a clear roadmap for where to focus your preparation. The two hardest written tests — Air Brakes and Combination Vehicles — have documented failure rates that underscore how much focused study they require.

Written test failures

• Skipping the manual and relying on common sense — the exam covers technical specifics that require actual study
• Rushing through questions and making careless errors
• Second-guessing correct answers
• Using only practice tests without reading the manual — this leaves gaps that show up on test day

Skills test failures

• Turning too fast, causing the trailer to drift into other lanes
• Oversteering during straight-line backing or not catching trailer drift early
• Underestimating stopping distances and braking too late
• Safety violations — running red lights, failing to signal, or any accident during testing — result in automatic disqualification

Conclusion

Passing your CDL test on the first try comes down to preparation and consistency. Study your state's manual thoroughly, take practice tests daily, and enroll in a professional training program if you can. Focus extra attention on pre-trip inspections, backing maneuvers, and air brake systems — these are where most candidates fall short. Memorize the critical numbers, get real seat time behind the wheel, and build a structured study plan during your 14-day CLP waiting period. With the right preparation, first-time success is within reach.

FAQs

How long should I study before taking my CDL test?

Start studying several weeks before your scheduled exam, with at least 45 minutes of focused study each day. Consistent daily sessions beat cramming and lead to better retention on test day.

What is the minimum tire tread depth for CDL vehicles?

Steer tires require a minimum of 4/32 inch tread depth in every major groove; drive and trailer tires require 2/32 inch minimum.

What are the most common reasons people fail the CDL skills test?

Backing maneuvers, particularly alley docking, are the top failure point. Other common failures include turning too fast, delayed braking, and incomplete or vague pre-trip inspections.

What should I do on test day to perform my best?

Get at least 7 hours of sleep, eat a protein-rich breakfast, and arrive 30 minutes early. If you make a mistake during testing, take a breath, trust your training, and keep going.

The journey to becoming a professional truck driver has begun. Whether you’re a first-time driver or looking for a CDL refresher course, Advanced Career Institute is ready to show each of our students their future in the trucking industry. This guide is to help our students learn more about the programs we offer, how they can pay for it, and steer them toward a successful career.

Looking for a particular resource? Jump ahead!

• CDL Training Programs at ACI
• Financial Aid for CDL and Truck Driver Training
• What to Expect in Truck Driver Training
• Prepare for Your CDL Permit Test
• More CDL Training Questions? We've Got Answers!

CDL Training Programs at ACI

Here at Advanced Career Institute, we offer a variety of different CDL classes at different campuses to help incoming students prepare for their new career in the trucking industry. This includes a variety of Class A CDL courses as well as a refresher course for those who have previously received their commercial driver's license.

Professional Truck Driver Program

Our Professional Truck Driver Program, offered at all 5 of our campuses, is our introductory truck driver training program. This course is designed for students who have no prior experience in the industry and are looking to get their CDL. This training has extensive classroom training and behind-the-wheel practice to prepare you for the exam. This course is 4 weeks long and will total 160 hours of classroom and range training.

Advanced Professional Truck Driver Program

For students who would like more time to build their skills behind the wheel, we offer an Advanced Professional Truck Driver Program. This 6-week course covers the same crucial topics included in our Professional Truck Driver Program but adds more time in the driver's seat to prepare for the Class A CDL exam.

Ag Transportation

If you’re interested in our Ag Transportation program, offered at both our Visalia and Las Vegas campuses, it is also open to students with no prior experience. This extended course provides advanced training to students on procedures for both the truck driving and agricultural industries. Like with our other truck driver training programs, you’ll be prepared for the operations of truck driving, but also be instructed on how to transport products and equipment in the agricultural industry. For this 20-week course, students will have ample time to become comfortable behind the wheel and transporting specialty agricultural materials.

Commercial Driver 3-Week Program

The Commercial Driver 3-Week Program is an expedited course for students who already have a valid CDL Permit in California or Nevada, and a valid DOT medical card. This course is a behind-the-wheel only program to prepare students for the driving portion of the exam. With only 120 hours needed to complete this course, our staff works quickly to ensure that students are ready to hit the road with confidence as soon as possible.

Financial Aid for CDL and Truck Driver Training

At Advanced Career Institute, we help all our incoming students find ways to pay for the CDL training they need. When our students meet with the Financial Aid Office, the goal is to find the right payment method for them. This could include using any military benefits, government funding, or payment plans.

 

Many students who walk through the door may qualify for military benefits when they choose to enroll at Advanced Career Institute. Whether they are an active military member, a veteran, or a family member of a military member, they may be eligible for a variety of financial aid programs.

 

Programs you may qualify for

 

• Post 9/11 GI Bill
• Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB)
• Special Vocational Training (SVT)
• Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance Program
• Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)
• Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP)
• DoD Tuition Assistance (TA) Program
• Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA)

If you wish to know more about your options, check out our Veterans Assistance page, or connect with our Financial Aid Office. Another popular financing option is known as the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, or WIOA. This grant provides individuals who are looking for training with funding to individuals who want to start a new career so they can succeed in the workforce. WIOA partners with the Department of Labor and other federal partners to help states offer this program for those who need assistance affording their training. The federal government may also award incoming students grants based on their qualifications. A common grant would be the Federal Pell Grant. This form of financial aid is typically given to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial needs and have not yet earned a degree or certificate. Unlike loans, students do not have to repay Pell Grants. Financial need is determined by the Department of Education, and qualification is based on a variety of options. This includes your financial need, the cost to attend school, and your status as a student. If you would like to learn more about the Pell Grant and how you can qualify, let our Financial Aid Office help you get started.

If you’re not interested in taking out a loan, or you cannot qualify for grants, Advanced Career Institute also offers payment plans as an alternative. This will break the tuition cost into equal monthly payments. Our Financial Aid office will also be happy to help you set up automated payment plans for your schooling. If you’re interested in setting up monthly payment plans, our Financial Aid Office will work to find the right fit for you!

 

If you’re interested in other payment options, check out our tuition assistance page for a full list of financial aid opportunities.

What to Expect in Truck Driver Training

At Advanced Career Institute, our courses are designed to combine classroom training and behind-the-wheel practice. Classroom training is built to prepare you for the CDL written exam with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Driving on the range and practicing on the road are also a crucial part of obtaining your CDL.

 

The first step in each of our courses is to prepare students for their CDL permit test. This takes place during the first week of training, and we prepare our students to obtain their Class A driving permit with all endorsements, except for the hazardous materials endorsement. This endorsement requires that you take an additional Hazmat theory course that is included in the Entry-Level Driver training prior to the exam.

 

Once a student achieves their permit, we will start entry-level driver training. This includes everything a student can prepare for when getting on the road behind the wheel. From different weather conditions to night operation and space management, our students will learn the proper protocol when handling the truck. Our students also learn the importance of pre-trip inspection and post-trip inspection. During this time, we teach them how to identify parts and inspect their vehicle to ensure safety.

 

When our students are able to understand their truck inside and out, that’s when we get them driving. Students start training with basic maneuvers such as backing, alley docking, parallel parking, and coupling/uncoupling. Students will also learn basic handling of the truck both on the range and the public roads. This is the longest portion of the training, ensuring that students are safe and comfortable behind the wheel prior to taking their exams.

Prepare for Your CDL Permit Test

The CDL training courses that are offered at Advanced Career Institute are designed to help you prepare for the exams, but attending class is not the only way to prepare. Students must also put forth the effort in preparing for the test. It’s important to study and become proficient in every aspect of truck driving to pass. It’s important that students don’t simply memorize terms and rules; they need to understand the concepts and feel comfortable in the driver’s seat. It’s also important for students to practice their exam, with several online options like this CDL practice exam for students to take. This will prepare students for the California DMV written tests. If you’re looking for ways to study outside of the classroom – take a look at this  DMV CDL study guide, or this online CDL Test Study Guide.

More CDL Training Questions? We've Got Answers!

In this blog, we’ve answered a lot of questions about what to expect as a new CDL student. But what if you have other questions? We’ve created a section of frequently asked questions for incoming students or people just interested in learning more. Our staff is also a wealth of knowledge when it comes to trucking and is ready to answer any questions you may have about education or the trucking industry.

Ready to Begin CDL Training? Start Your Trucking Career with ACI!

Here at Advanced Career Institute, we value each student that walks through our doors. From the time they enroll, we want to help our students put the best foot forward toward their new career. We help our students earn a variety of endorsements in hazardous materials, air brakes, and tankers. Now imagine that your CDL tanker endorsement leads you to deliver key ingredients for rocket fuel at a well-known launch site. One of our graduates, Logan, got the chance to live this moment for himself after graduating from ACI, and we want to tell his story. Logan attended both our Visalia and Fresno campuses earlier this year, graduating just a few months ago. Before getting his tanker endorsement with us, Logan was doing something else exciting – loading helicopters. Working with the agricultural community, he helped prep helicopters to crop dust fields. Although, this wasn’t the job he wanted to have for the next 30 years, he wanted something more reliable.

A New Path with Purpose: Why Logan Chose a CDL Career

“I wanted a more reliable and steady income. Acquiring a CDL makes you employable in the 49 continental states,” he states, “I wanted to always have steady employment to help raise my kids.” After multiple people recommended Advanced Career Institute, Logan chose to enroll at our Visalia campus.. When asked about his experience at both the Visalia and Fresno campuses, he had nothing but kind things to say about the staff members. From start to finish, there were staff members and instructors that helped him to succeed. “Melissa was so perfect at the pre-trip and wouldn’t allow anyone to cut corners, she didn’t want to make us unsafe drivers.”

More Than Just a Job: Driving Toward Rocket Launch Sites

In the short time following his training with ACI, Logan found himself employed quickly. Logan started to drive tanker trucks with a lot of different contents. One of these deliveries being calumet – an inactive ingredient in rocket fuel. While it’s considered a non-hazmat material, Logan is working toward getting his hazmat endorsement. This is so that he can deliver more materials to popular launch sites. This would include hauling hazmat and doubles, so that he can haul all the materials needed for rocket fuel. While rocket fuel is not the only delivery Logan makes, his contract doing so has helped others. Most notably, he delivered materials to a launch station preparing to retrieve Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams from the International Space Station in March of this year.

Eyes on the Horizon: What’s Next for Logan in Trucking

“Since graduating, I’ve hauled tankers, pneumatics, low beds, flatbeds, as well as bottom-dump and side-dump trailers – all for the same company.” He explained, “I’ve already got to haul eight different types of trailers over the course of two months.” Logan has been working hard from the beginning to give himself every opportunity in the trucking industry. He actively pursued his hazmat certification and licenses as a bulk milk hauler and sampler. This helped him gain valuable experience with each haul he completed. By making himself skilled in so many parts of the trucking field, he’s been able to assists companies like Kinder Morgan and Harris Ranch in transporting their products. We asked Logan what he would tell any future students at ACI. His best advice for future CDL drivers: apply yourself. “Don’t let any personal distractions come in the way of your future goals,” Logan recommends, “Once you get your CDL and find your place of employment, it’s a major relief.” He also mentions how important your driving record is for success in the CDL industry. He even made a comparison between a drivers performance and their resume. ACI is here to help each and every one of our students understand the importance of driver safety. Logan got to experience that first-hand at our Fresno campus. “I 100% know that Fresno will create a safe driver, and it will help them to acquire their CDL without fail if they attend that campus.” If you’re ready to launch yourself into a career in trucking, reach out to us today to get started! Learn the California requirements for tanker endorsements!

In a world where technology keeps advancing, the trucking industry is gearing up for some big changes. From self-driving trucks to eco-friendly ways of moving goods, let's take a peek into what's ahead for trucking.

Autonomous Vehicles

A hot topic in the industry is the arrival of self-driving trucks. Although fully self-driving trucks might not be here yet, we're already seeing some features that help trucks drive themselves a bit. Things like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance are being added to trucks. These features not only make driving safer but also help trucks use less fuel.

Smart Planning with Data

Trucking companies now have superpowers thanks to data. They can track their trucks in real-time and use that info to plan better routes, save fuel, and make deliveries faster.

Eco-Friendly Trucks

People are worried about the environment, so trucking is going green. Electric trucks that run on clean energy are becoming popular. They don't pollute like regular trucks and can save money in the long run.

Keeping Things Moving, No Matter What

The COVID-19 pandemic showed how important it is to keep things moving, even when there are big problems. Trucking companies are learning to be ready for anything by making their plans more flexible and smart. In short, the future of trucking is all about using new tech and being kinder to the planet. While there are still some bumps in the road, like rules and roads that need upgrading, the future looks exciting. With teamwork between truckers, lawmakers, and tech experts, we're set to roll into a smarter, greener tomorrow for trucking! Get started in towards a career in trucking today! Call our admissions team at 866-951-4821 to learn more about enrolling with ACI!

Advanced Career Institute has been in business for over 30 years. We have grown to five campuses that provide students in California and Nevada with the best training as they work toward getting their CDLs and welding certifications. Learn about each of our campuses and find the perfect one for your needs.

Visalia CDL Training and Welding Training

The ACI Visalia campus is our oldest campus, having been open since 1993. However, it has recently moved to a new state-of-the-art facility in 2022. The new Visalia campus is located at 1243 N Clancy St, Visalia, CA 9329, and offers students both CDL and welding training courses. The complete list of the courses provided at Visalia is Class A CDL training, Advanced Class A CDL training, CDL refresher training, Agricultural Transportation training, and advanced welding training. The new Visalia campus provides students access to the four-acre truck driving yard and our 5,000 sq. ft. welding lab.

Fresno CDL and Welding Training

Our Fresno campus, located at 2953 S. East Avenue, Fresno, California 93725, was the second campus we opened in July 2000. When we opened our Fresno campus, welding also joined our programs list. As of 2022, the programs offered at our Fresno campus are Class A CDL training, Advanced Class A CDL training, Agricultural Transportation training, and Advanced Welding training.

Merced CDL Training

Due to increased student demand, we opened our Merced campus in March of 2015. Our Merced campus is at 1741 Ashby Rd, Suite B, Merced, CA 95348. The Merced campus offers Class A CDL training, Advanced Class A CDL training, CDL refresher training, and Agricultural Transportation training. Merced helps us reach all students in the Valley and give them the best Commercial truck driver training possible.

Bakersfield CDL and Welding Training

ACI Bakersfield is one of three campuses offering both CDL training and welding courses. Our Bakersfield campus is located at 2925 Mosasco St., Unit B, Bakersfield, CA 93312, and has been open since 2018. Our CDL training programs include our Class A CDL training, Agriculture Transportation training, Advanced Class A CDL training, and a CDL refresher course. Our Bakersfield campus also offers ACI’s advanced welding training, our 38-week welding certification course.

Las Vegas CDL Training

In 2020 we opened the ACI Las Vegas campus using our over 30 years of knowledge in the trucking industry to provide the best training in the North Las Vegas area for our students. We opened our Las Vegas campus at 4020 E Lone Mountain Rd Suite 100 North Las Vegas, NV 89081; it became our fifth campus. The Las Vegas campus offers Class A CDL training, Advanced Class A CDL training, CDL refresher training, and Agricultural Transportation training. Students that attend our Las Vegas will have access to our four-acre paved training yard and new upgraded classrooms.

Come to ACI to be trained by the best staff in California! Contact us today to reserve your seat at one of our campuses.

For many, the holiday season drums up memories of large food spreads, festive decorations adorning businesses and homes alike, and unwrapping gifts of all sizes. But have you ever stopped to think about how those items arrived in your hands just in time for your special celebration? Professional truck drivers play a large part in that process. They transport goods from turkeys to holiday trees and everything in between. These men and women sacrifice spending this special time with their loved ones to ensure our gatherings go off without a hitch. Now more than ever, it's important to show them how thankful we are for their service. Keep reading to see different ways you can thank a professional driver during this time of giving!

Thank A Driver with a Home Cooked Meal

Drivers have limited home-cooked meal options while on the road, meaning they often eat typical truck stop snacks or fast-food items. To show appreciation for the hard work they are providing this season, you can opt to share your own turkey spread! Alternatively, there are many organizations, such as Meals for 18 Wheels, where you can volunteer to deliver ready-made meals to drivers. Whichever you choose may seem like a small sentiment, but truck drivers will for sure be very grateful!

Show Thanks by Picking Up the Check

If your celebrations happen at a restaurant or diner, check if any drivers are also enjoying a meal. If so, you can offer to cover their bill. You could even invite them to join in your festivities, as many of them are away from their own celebrations and traditions. Truck drivers can provide great company and interesting conversations, as they encounter something new every day that they're driving across the country. And to think, all of that could begin with a small kind gesture of gratitude!

Spread Holiday Cheer with Thank-You Themed Goody Bags

A great way to get the whole family involved is to set up a goody bag creation station to pass out to drivers you encounter throughout the season. The bags can be filled with travel-size essential items, grab-and-go snacks, or holiday-themed décor they can use to spruce up their trucks. You might also want to include a themed greeting card that everyone can sign. The best part – these items can be purchased at your local dollar store! Once all the bags are filled, make sure to keep them somewhere that can be easily accessed to hand out, such as your car. This inexpensive gift idea can have the biggest impact on a driver’s day!

Post on Social Media Using the #ThankATrucker Hashtag

Social media has become a very popular way for drivers to keep in touch with their family and friends. This gives you the perfect opportunity to show your thankfulness to drivers, and best of all – it's free to do! Before you post, make sure to include the hashtag #ThankATrucker so your message can reach even more drivers than you thought possible! You can also repost messages from others who are using the hashtag to spread their positive sentiments. Lastly, you can ask your friends or followers to also create a caption with the hashtag and help spread good messages to all drivers!

Truck Drivers Thank Advanced Career Institute

While everyone is thanking our heroes of the road, truck drivers are also showing their gratitude to those who helped them get where they are today. Advanced Career Institute has received many heartfelt messages of thanks and appreciation from our graduates who underwent our CDL training program and have gone on to create successful and lucrative driving careers with our trucking partners. Many graduates share their stories with us online, but some make sure to stop by their campus in person. Drivers also make sure to stop by our Job Placement program offices to pass along their gratitude to those who helped get the ball rolling toward their new careers.

Let ACI help you begin your new driving career! Fill out the form on this page or give us a call at 866-218-7968 to get your spot reserved in our next class!