Hearing Lost

[Deaf Dude]

I am a newbie to this and I haven't a CDL as of yet. I have a few questions:

1. I have a profound hearing lost and was told that IL doesn't have a hearing test requirement any longer. I enjoy driving quite a bit and was wondering if my hearing lost would have any real impact on getting a job in this field?

2. I have considered starting out as a VAN Driver. My credit is a little screwed up so financing might be costly for me. What level of CDL do I need to get start? And what would be the best next step?

3. I am also retired military and spenting 10 years as a heavy duty Truck mechanic. I have driven all types of vehicles except T/T. Is this worth anything in getting into the trucking business?

 

[2millionplus]

2millionplus

First of all, it all depends on how much of a hearing impairment you have, the you would have to get a CDL C with a Hazmat endorcement.

Beware, due to a lack of freight, many of us are not hiring vans at this time. This is to keep our fleets of vans at a level where most should see a profit. Over recruiting can mean no one makes a profit, and you end up with a lot of dissatisfied owners.

So, my advice would be to get your CDL and then maybe for the short haul, be a driver for an established owner that may already have an available van in need of a driver.

If you still have questions, give us a call and I will be happy to guide you through the process.

2millionplus/Mike B
Recruiter
Con-Way NOW

 

[Panzer]

I had my DOT phyical yesterday, and the "forced wisper" was part pf the phyical. I am an Illinois resident, with Illinois DL, and the test was in IL.

 

[X1_SRH]

The specific requirements regarding hearing requirements can be found in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations - section 391.41 subpart (11). This will give you the straight answers. I hope this helps. - Scott

 

[highway star]

My last 2 physicals were done by different doctors and both used the whisper. My feeling is you would have a problem with it. Are you using a hearing aid? You may be all right then.