What Should You Expect as a Recent CDL School Graduate? 

You’ve done it! You graduated CDL school and earned your CDL-A license. That’s a big milestone. 

Now comes the next question: what happens after CDL school? 

How do you go from a recent graduate to confidently driving your own truck? 

For most new drivers, the answer is simple: a student training program. Programs offered by major carriers like U.S. Xpress provide on the job training helping you build experience, earn income, and launch your career the right way.

How does a student training program work? 

Getting your CDL-A means you’re legally qualified to drive, but becoming a successful driver takes more than passing a test.

That’s where student programs come in.

At carriers like U.S. Xpress, you’ll be paired with an experienced Driver Trainer who helps you develop your skills in real-world conditions. During this time, you’ll learn what day-to-day life on the road really looks like and sharpen the following skills:

How to safely operate a commercial vehicle in different environments

Trip planning and time management

Hours of Service (HOS) compliance

It’s hands-on, practical experience that prepares you for life as an Over-the-Road (OTR), Dedicated, or Team driver.

What to expect from the U.S. Xpress student training program 

Here’s what your journey typically looks like:

Get qualified
Before training begins, you’ll complete a qualification process that includes:

  • Verifying your CDL-A and CDL school completion
  • Reviewing your driving record and background

Attend Orientation
Once approved, you’ll attend Orientation at one of our 10 terminal locations nationwide.
This is your chance to:

  • Receive refresher training on DOT safety requirements
  • Learn how to complete BOLS and onboarding paperwork
  • Learn more about U.S. Xpress
  • Meet support teams
  • Get prepared for life on the road

Hit the road with a U.S. Xpress Driver Trainer 
After Orientation, you’ll be matched with an experienced Driver Trainer.
Over the next few weeks, you’ll:

  • Gain driving experience
  • Build confidence behind the wheel
  • Navigate life on the road as a truck driver

Best of all, you’ll earn weekly pay while training.

Upgrade to first-seat driver
When you and your trainer feel you’re ready, you’ll complete your upgrade evaluation at a U.S. Xpress terminal. 

Pass your upgrade test, and you’ll officially become a first-seat driver and will be ready to start your career.

Why choose the U.S. Xpress student training program?

Not all training programs are created equal. Here’s what sets U.S. Xpress apart:

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Professional Development

Work with dedicated Driver Development Specialists who help you grow every step of the way. 

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Safety-focused Training

Learn the skills and habits needed to operate safely in real-world driving conditions. 

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Structured Learning

Our multi-phase training approach ensures you build knowledge progressively, from fundamentals to advanced driving scenarios. 

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Competitive Pay + Tuition Reimbursement

Earn $650 per week during training and get up to $7,000 in CDL school reimbursement.

Ready to get started?

If you’re ready to take the next step in your driving career, now’s the time.
Check your eligibility and see if you qualify.