Any downsides to getting a CDL?

[4570Man]

I’m thinking of getting a CDL and buying a single axle semi because they’re cheap and way more capable than a ton truck. I can also see myself owning a real dump truck in the future. I’ll probably have get a dot physical every year. Am I missing anything else?

 

[Redlands Okie]

No idea but your state might make a difference, your in Tennessee ?

 

[4570Man]

No idea but your state might make a difference, your in Tennessee ?

Yes. Entered to make the post long enough to post.

 

[newbury]

Check to see if it affects your insurance.

 

[4570Man]

Probably going to have to go commercial anyway because I’m waiting to get into backhoe work next year. Otherwise I’d slap a farm tag on and wouldn’t worry about CDL.

 

[Morning Wood]

How’re you going to do it? Go to a school, or wing it on your own?

 

[Doofy]

A CDL is always good to have. The annual physical could be a good thing if you are like most men and fail to take care of yourself. Anyone with a CDL that can pass a drug test is usually in high demand nationwide.

I let mine go when I retired because I didn't want to be hounded to drive for everyone.

 

[GSVette]

I researched getting a cdl in Washington before I bought my dump truck-what put me off was the cost of the mandated schooling in order to obtain the license with no option to ‘test out’.

I may go through the mandatory school after I retire in a couple of years so that I can operate without the restrictions of an ag. exemption.

 

[4570Man]

How’re you going to do it? Go to a school, or wing it on your own?

I’m going to go check out the local truck driving school. If it’s not expensive or a large time frame I’ll do that. Otherwise I’ll wing it. BTW, I’m not interested in being a truck driver but it’s required for the test.

 

[Norm W]

I can think of a few draw backs, increased cost of the license, higher penalties for driving infractions, no classes for points reduction, cost of physical (must be DOT approved Dr.) If you keep your "Nose" clean it's mainly the cost. I've found no way to deduct it on taxes.