U.S. Truck Driver Training School — Local services in Sterling Heights

At the start of the year, I was determined to find ways to better support my company and enhance my skills. Earning my CDL seemed like the perfect step forward, but I had no idea where to start. After researching schools, I struggled to find a program that fit my schedule—until I met Tyler, the president of US Truck Driving School. He shared details about their program, including a weekend option that fit perfectly with my availability. Although I had concerns about learning to drive a manual transmission, especially since I’d never used one before, the program was within my budget, and I even secured a grant to help with financing. With that, I was ready to commit to their 120-hour class. The first step was obtaining my CDL permit, which required passing three challenging tests. It wasn’t easy—I didn’t pass on my first or even my second try—but I refused to give up. With determination and lots of practice, I finally succeeded. When classes started, it was a challenge to balance late Friday nights with early Saturday mornings. However, I was committed to giving my best. I arrived early to review truck components and prepare for each day’s lessons. The instructors, including James, Chris, Derrick, Moe, Rick, and Todd, were phenomenal. Even when I wasn’t in their specific group, they were always ready to help and offer advice. From day one, they made me feel like part of a team, not just another student. Learning to drive a stick shift was completely new to me, but the instructors provided invaluable tips, including the mantra that “the clutch is your friend.” They were patient, supportive, and always willing to ensure I had the tools I needed to succeed. The training covered everything from straight-line backing to offset maneuvers, 90-degree docking, and road driving. Thanks to the instructors' guidance, I built confidence and developed my skills. I also completed all my online coursework early so I could fully focus on mastering the trucks, knowing Todd was available to help if needed. When test day arrived, I was nervous but prepared. I passed the brake check and truck inspection sections, which was a big relief. The maneuvers were my next challenge, and with focus, I made it through. Then came the road test. Unfortunately, shifting during the test proved to be my weak point, and I didn’t pass. Failure was tough, but I reminded myself—and my daughters—that it’s not about the failure itself but about how you respond. I went back to practicing, worked on my weaknesses, and kept trying. After two more attempts, I finally passed. Today, I’m proud to say I’ve earned my CDL. This accomplishment wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support and dedication of the instructors at US Truck Driving School. To anyone considering this journey: Embrace the challenges, learn from setbacks, and never give up. Thank you to everyone who made this possible. Here’s to growth, perseverance, and...

USTDTS, I think is a good school to get your CDL from. I was there from 9/18/23 - 10/13/23 and kept coming back until I passed my exam at the beginning of November.

I did the 160 program.

It started off with Todd who told us everything we needed to know to get our permit and tips on other things we should consider like endorsements and how to add them.

Week one in the yard was straight backing and offsets. I got instruction from Mo and I can't say enough good things about him.

Week two in the yard was learning alleydocking/90s. The school president Tyler actually was our instructor for most of the week and his teaching was excellent. The end of the week Mo actually took over and again was great at teaching. I struggled some with my 90s and listened a lot to finally really understand what I was missing and why.

Week three in the yard I was on the road everyday with Tim. I thought Tim was really good, especially at being encouraging, since no inexperienced student should expect to be perfect day one.

After my week on the road, I kept coming back to practice maneuvers and Clarence appeared on the yard. Clarence truly helped and was really good at offering alternate ways of doing the same things that had already been taught.

I messed up on my maneuvers during my State exam and had to retake the test once. When this happened I came back everyday until I tested again. I got in a lot more practice again with Clarence and then again (special shout out to) Mo, and my second exam went fine.

I followed up with Tyler after I passed and Josh. I really appreciated that Tyler was available late on a Friday (I tested down on Livernois at 1:30) when I got back to the school at almost 4 o'clock. I met again with Josh the following Tuesday and really recommend talking to him if you don't know where you want to work, and are open to options. I started a job a week later.

My only complaint would be, I wish there had been more instructors and maybe another truck or two. While I kept coming back, other instructors started, which leads me to think the school addresses issues as best it can and quickly. The mechanics were all over any breakdown and got stuff back right, quick.

I also want to say that overall I had a good experience including help from the personnel in the office (mostly Jamie), Jim in the media center, Chris for taking me out on the road when he had an open spot (Yooooooohhh!). Jim and Adrian had a lot of advice about trucking companies that I listened to. Stay for a lunch and learn or...

I had an incredible experience at USTDS, and I'm excited to share my honest review. This school is truly dedicated to the success of their students and goes above and beyond to ensure that you have all the tools to excel in your trucking career.

From the very start, I was impressed by the level of commitment the instructors displayed. They didn't just throw information at us and wish us well; they provided a wealth of pertinent information and went the extra mile to make sure we were fully prepared to graduate and start making money in our careers.

I'd like to give a special shout-out to a few of the instructors who played a significant role in my eventual success:

Moe: Moe is an outstanding instructor. His personable nature and patience made him an exceptional maneuvers instructor, especially for absolute beginners like myself. He skillfully guided us through challenging maneuvers, always providing constructive feedback and encouragement. Chris: This instructor's wealth of knowledge is truly enormous. Following exactly what Chris said during the training ensured that the problems I had, I got corrected. His expertise was invaluable. Greg: Greg's calm and even-tempered approach as a road instructor made the learning process relatively smooth. He handled student mistakes with understanding following up with clear correctional guidance. Tim: Learning from Tim was a pleasure. His personable and patient teaching style made the learning experience enjoyable, and his words of encouragement were instrumental in building my and other student's confidence.

I'm extremely grateful for the top-notch instruction and support I received at USTDS. Thanks to their dedication and the wonderful instructors, I am now confidently pursuing my trucking career. I highly recommend USTDS to anyone looking for comprehensive, professional, and caring training in the trucking industry.

Thank you, USTDS, for helping me achieve my goals and set out on an exciting journey in the...