Frequently Asked Questions
Construction Truck Drivers must be very good at backing into tight places on construction sites. A large part of the 6 weeks training is dedicated to backing. You need to have the ability to learn this skill.
We take a close look at your driving record. How clean is it? Many applications are rejected because of the applicants driving record. You must also be able to receive a Hazardous Materials Endorsement on your driver’s license. This requires you to complete a federal background check and fingerprint check. For questions or concerns regarding TSA eligibility go to www.hazprints.com or call 1-877-429-7746
Typically, our classes begin in the spring. Apprenticeship classes are followed by on the job training. This allows the apprentice a chance to practice the skills learned in class.
No. If you are outside of the Tri-Cities dispatch area we currently provide $350 a week to help with your travel expenses. Check with your unemployment office as you may qualify for unemployment if you leave an employer (without incidence) to join an apprenticeship program.
Monday - Thursday 10 hours a day. As in construction, start times vary.
No. We have found that people with experience need a review of the basics and everyone needs the construction training. If you do not need the construction training, you probably do not need our program.
No. We will help you acquire your Class A CDL with all the endorsements needed.
You will receive a Class A Commercial Drivers License with Double or Triple Trailer, Tank Vehicle, and Placarded Hazardous Material endorsements.
We will have anywhere from 1 to 3 classes per year. We try to match the the number of apprentices trained to the demands of the construction industry. For apprentices to be successful it is important that we can find them work after training.
We usually train 6-10 students per class. With a small class, we are able to give more attention to each student and their training needs. This also allows each student to have a dedicated truck to drive.
If this is a career you are interested in and you feel you have the aptitude for the job we encourage you to apply. Many of our successful apprentices had never driven prior to class.
You are responsible for making your own hotel accommodations.
If you are outside of the Tri-Cities dispatch area we currently provide $350 a week to help with your travel expenses.
Successful apprentices have the ability to do the job, have a good work ethic, get along well with others, do not have drug or alcohol problems and like the fast pace of being a Construction Truck Driver.
Our standards cover all of Washington. We try to keep the Western Washington apprentices working in Western Washington and the same for Eastern Washington. You need to be prepared to travel to the jobsites that your employer sends you to.
You must complete a minimum of 3,000 hours of on-the-job training, including 160 hours of training in at least 5 pieces of equipment to successfully complete the Washington-Idaho Construction Teamsters Apprenticeship Program. This can take anywhere from 2 to 4 years.
While we cannot guarantee employment we do our best to find work as soon as possible after graduation. Many of our students start work the following week. This allows them to begin utilizing the skills they learned in class.
Applicants are responsible for the cost of their DOT Physical. Many Minor Emergency Clinics offer the best price.
When obtaining a driver abstract you need to request a 3 year abstract. For details about obtaining an abstract in Washington: http://www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/requestyourrecord.html
