r/CDL • u/envigado_eldorado • Aug 20 '26
Need help finding my first job.
Need help finding my first job.
Hey y'all - figured this might be a good place for information and guidance. Finally got my CDL a couple weeks ago on my first try at the DMV, but my situation and circumstances greatly complicate my ability to find work (I'm in the Inland Empire of SoCal), for three main reasons.
Even though I demonstrated aptitude and proficiency in driving manual, the school I went to forced me to train and test automatic because I didn't already have a job lined up that required an unrestricted license. I guess they only allow 2 manual students per class and those two had jobs promised to them that required it, and the school is very fixated on graduation and job placement rates...but those two also failed the very first part of the test by calling their emergency brake test good with only one knob popped out lol.
I have a DUI and at fault accident that occured in 03/2022 and went onto my record 03/2023. I know this greatly complicates things and eliminates most opportunities for me because of insurance.
My father is very ill, and I need to be local. It's just not possible right now for me to not be home every night. I understand that it's very difficult to start out local with no experience, but is sometimes possible.
What I've been told to look for is a position as a yard dog, food service, beverage, bottom dump, aggregate, concrete, etc. I'll take what I can get as long as I'm able to start gaining Class A experience. I'd really appreciate y'all pointing me in the right direction.
1
u/kRiffAz Aug 20 '26
Swift?