Schneider Training Academy
A Wealth of Knowledge to Prepare You for the Road Ahead
Schneider National’s world-class truck driving school is the best in the industry, with a strong emphasis on safety. The comprehensive program consists of classroom, hands-on and over-the-road training. Spend a moment viewing these short videos offering more information about the Schneider Training Academy and comments from driving school graduates.
Before you come to the Schneider Training Academy, you must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) permit, which requires studying for and taking a written examination. These online study guides will help you prepare for the CDL written exam. If your state does not have an online study guide, they are also available at your local Department of Motor Vehicles office. After you study, you can test your knowledge with Schneider National’s practice tests.
What to Expect
You’ll meet your classroom instructor and learn about safety procedures, mechanical operations of the truck and how to log your routes and hours. Be prepared for some homework every day throughout training.
You’ll spend time learning cab controls, engine operations and how to correctly shift and drive the tractor. Once in the truck, you will learn and practice:
- Making turns with the tractor and trailer
- Handling intersections and railroad crossings
- Driving through city and highway traffic
- Backing the tractor-trailer
- Coupling and uncoupling the tractor to the trailer
- Inspecting the equipment, including the complete pre-trip inspection
- Conducting brake tests
- Pre-Work Screen Process
You will also get practice in slow maneuvering, OSHA pallet truck operation and tandem/fifth-wheel sliding. Plus, you’ll receive additional training in permitting, injury prevention and how to manage fatigue. Please click here to download a pdf of the pre-work screen process or click here to view the assessment video.
You will also study Department of Transportation regulations, map navigation and the detailed planning of moving a loaded tractor-trailer legally across North America. You’ll learn about hazardous materials, Schneider National’s TruckRail™ operations and satellite system, as well as detailed information about cargo claims, theft prevention and winter driving.
More extensive over-the-road training will begin when you are assigned to an experienced training engineer. You’ll drive with the trainer for 1–2 weeks. Once you complete the initial phase of training and your skills are perfected, you will be assigned your own truck and begin your truck driving career.
