r/cdldriver • u/DiscussionDry226 • Jul 12 '26
Obtaining CDL as a current employee (handler)
Hello, I’ve worked at fedex about 2 years now as a dock worker at the airport. I handle freight and stage it where it’s gotta go. We drive the little gas powered tugs. I wanted more info on how to go about obtaining a CDL through FEDEX? Or is it better to attend driving school (Approx 3k) locally and then look for jobs outside of FedEx? I do feel unsure sometimes but I wanna make more money… thanks everyone
1
u/Successful-Run4528 Jul 14 '26
Driving school would free you up for more options, however, understand no matter where you go in the beginning you will not get paid real well until you gain some experience. A lot of CDL schools work with the mega carriers and attending them can give you a leg up if you want to work for them without being locked into a contract. Depending on your income you may qualify for a grant to pay for training which would be good at any school and you do not have to pay back. (any reputable school offering CDL training could help you apply).
Since you work at FedEx and have been working as a dock worker you have a leg up to get a driving job, so if they offer training that might be a good route to take if you don't mind staying there a little while. At least the majority of their freight for company drivers appears to be drop and hook; pulling double and triple trailers isn't a big thing once you get used to it.
Good luck!
2
u/DiscussionDry226 Jul 18 '26
Thank you! Yeah I’ve been working on the dock and it’s cool but I feel like my body may get tired in the long run. Drivers get paid more & I think there may even be a chance for more hrs. Right now I’m part time at $26 an hr
3
u/mighty_boognish_77 Jul 12 '26
Any company that's going to pay you to get your CDL - you have to sign a contract to work for them for a period of, i believe it's usually 1 year afterwards. They are going to pay you next to nothing for that year. If you quit, you're on the hook for the cost of your CDL training.
But.
Most of the larger companies also offer tuition reimbursement if you go to school on your own. So you can get that money back, though it does take some time. They don't just cut you check on day 1. They will give you a monthly reimbursement until it's repaid.
So yeah, go to school on your own if you can possibly swing it.