Joining My Husband on the Road: A Journey of CDL Training

Krystal Whittington

1/3/20242 min read

Since 1999, my husband has been driving trucks, and over the years, he has become my rock and support system. However, the stressors of nursing school and working in healthcare became overwhelming, and I knew I needed a break. I also wanted to continue earning money while having my husband by my side. After much discussion, we decided that getting my Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and driving as a team would be the best solution for us.

Obtaining my CDL wasn't a quick process. It took four weeks of intensive training at a CDL school to earn my license. Fortunately, the company my husband worked for saw the potential in me and hired me as his co-driver. They even allowed him to be my trainer during the training period, which started on October 28th and will officially end on January 27th. Once the training period is over, my pay will increase.

So far, this journey has been nothing short of interesting. I've learned a lot about the trucking industry and what it takes to be a professional driver. It's not just about sitting behind the wheel and driving from point A to point B. There are regulations to follow, safety protocols to adhere to, and a constant need for awareness on the road.

One of the most challenging aspects of training has been adjusting to the lifestyle of a truck driver. Living on the road means being away from the comforts of home, sleeping in the truck's cabin, and finding truck stops for showers and meals. It's a different way of life, and it takes some getting used to.

However, despite the challenges, there are also many positives to being a team driver. I get to spend quality time with my husband, which is something we both cherish. We share the responsibilities of driving, navigation, and managing the logistics of our trips. It's a true partnership, and it has brought us even closer together.

Another benefit of being a team driver is the opportunity to explore new places. As we travel across the country, we get to see beautiful landscapes, experience different cultures, and try regional cuisines. It's like going on an adventure every day.

While I initially embarked on this journey to take a break from the stressors of my previous career, I've come to appreciate the trucking industry and the unique experiences it offers. I've gained a newfound respect for truck drivers and the hard work they do to keep our economy moving.

As my training period comes to an end, I look forward to continuing this career as a team driver with my husband. It may not have been the path I initially envisioned, but it has turned out to be a fulfilling and rewarding choice. Together, we'll navigate the open roads and create memories that will last a lifetime.