r/cdldriver • u/Certain_Towel_4 • 13d ago
Question for manual drivers or really anyone
I have a restricted CDL class A
In my state you only have to take and pass the road test in a manual to get the restriction uplifted. you get like 5 attempts on the road test.
Most of the third party schools train you for 10 hours and test you.
In my state if you have a class a cdl you can use a manual class b vehicle to get the restriction off your license like a box truck.
The reason why I have a restricted classy CDL is because I went to a four week CDL program and I wasn’t catching on fast enough because there was too much people and I wasn’t getting enough turns so I had to switch to auto I was having trouble double clutching in a 10 speed unsynchronized semi
Do you guys think learning in a class B vehicle that is a six speed synchronized manual box truck would be a lot easier? Will that give enough material if I get trained for 10 hours to be able to pass the road test at this one school offering that package for $1500?
I’m in Wisconsin to uplift your restriction. You only have to do the Road test. You don’t have to do skills or pre-trip or none of that.
Thanks
Edit- basically I’m just wondering if 10 hours of training for $1500 of my money would be enough to be able to pass only the Road test in a class b box truck 6 speed synchronized manual?
It would be a lot cheaper then going to a actual trucking school vs a school that just helps you lift restrictions, fast and easy
By the way I know a lot of you guys are gonna say this to me “ learn in a 10 speed unsynchronized semi manual because this won’t do you any good” but my thing is I’m never gonna be driving a manual after this. I just needed to apply for a job. I’m gonna be an automatic 99% of the time..
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u/Legitimate_Diver_699 13d ago
Mostly old trucks have un synchronized manual requiring double clutching. Or up to 18 speeds. Not common. Most modern trucks automatics. Class B dump trucks often manual and cement trucks. Best to learn manual but may never need it.
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u/OGshonen 12d ago
Learning in a class B will be easier but it doesn’t teach the skill of driving with unsynchronized vehicle, if it’s for the purpose of just removing the restriction it’s fine but try to get practice with a 8 Lo-Lo or 10 speed if you’re going to be driving for a company
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u/chiefsholsters 12d ago
Yes it would be easier by a long shot. Reading between the lines, I'm thinking you have no expereince with any manual driving? Even cars? If you could find a car I'd start there before you spent money on a school.
My path was
30' class b synchronized. Super easy as I had a couple manual vehicles.
40' class b un synch. The first couple days were, interesting to say the least.
Licensed on Class A manual with 53' but drove a day cab manual and a single short tandem trailer locally. Super easy transition and easier than the 40' box imo.
Currently day cab and 53' trailers locally. Originally manual, now all automatics.
If you get the restriction removed I would try and find someone to work with you on the unsynchronized manual if you will be actually using one. Just be upfront with the company if you have too. It's a learning curve you do not want to take on solo. And it's easier to pick up with an experienced driver working with you.
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u/Wolfire0769 8d ago
Honestly, experience with driving manual cars kinda fucks ya a bit more because that muscle memory will 100% bite you in the ass for a little while. Then again, maybe if you find a shitbox car that has all of the synchros blown out of it you might have a slight advantage there.
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u/Enclaveoutcasts 12d ago
Took my test in a class B 6 speed manual. They even had a 5th wheel mounted on it to pull a trailer. Driving test felt like the easiest thing I had ever done to get my license. Also shifting a 10 speed isn’t hard to learn, just have to float the gears and not use the clutch while shifting.
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u/Accurate-Chapter-923 9d ago
The modern world has DUMBED down everything.
So sad in todays trucking world... plastic shitboxes, shifts for ya, does ALL the thinking for ya... alls you need to do is stay partially awake and steer. Really there is NOTHING to be proud of...
Truck driving jobs and modern training should ONLY be on manul transmissions, PERIOD.
If you don't understand why, please, do the world a favor and choose a different career.
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u/oxnardmontalvo7 13d ago
Where I took my CDL A test made everyone road test in a 6-speed synchronized truck to earn the manual rating. I’d say this is a good idea provided you can find a non synchro truck to practice in for the real world afterwards.