Changing truck sizes

**Streakn1** · 05-20-2007, 03:05 AM

I recently inquired about changing from our DR unit to an ER unit. We have over 20 accident and ticket free years tractor trailer experience between us. It has been less than four years since we down sized to a DR unit. We have kept our class A CDL just in case we ever wanted to go back to driving a semi. No accidents or tickets to date.

I've been told by our carrier that what we thought would be simply taking a driving skills test to qualify to lease on a tractor trailer is incorrect. Rather, we have to take the skills test and then each of us go out on seperate trucks for six months and drive as "trainees" with a driver trainer since we've been away from tractor trailers for more than six months. All of this before we can lease on a tractor we are currently looking to buy. It is my understanding this is not mandated by the insurance carrier.

I am curious as to other expedite companies policies and requirements regarding this. Is this industry wide?

**greg334** · 05-20-2007, 03:05 AM

OK who is the company?

**nightcreacher** · 05-20-2007, 10:29 AM

you wont have to do that at fed ex,just pass a skills test,i had a co driver that hadnt driven a truck in 2 years,after skills test, wasnt listed as co driver only,like a student would be

**davekc** · 05-20-2007, 10:40 AM

Seems like it would be a company/insurance issue. It looks like the biggest hurdle is you both have been off the TT for too long. One can't be a student of the other, but on the other hand, you already have the license. It does seem most want 6 months RECENT verifiable experience. Some take recent students, but I think there is a time period on those as well.

Davekc
owner
22 years
PantherII
EO moderator

**wallytrucker1** · 05-21-2007, 12:13 PM

It 's my understanding at landstar that once you have been out of the tt for 2 or three years you can't go back very easily. I don't know all the details though..