Becoming a truck driver in Australia is not as simple as you might think. Large, heavy-duty trucks are very difficult to drive, and the driver has to make sure that they always take stock of their surroundings. Even a momentary lapse in concentration could lead to a huge accident on the motorways, so it is vitally important that you first practice and understand all of the safety and driving systems installed in your truck before making a decision. There are many important things that you need to know about getting a license for a heavy-duty vehicle.
If you want to get a license to drive a large truck, you will need to think about enrolling in a truck driving course. There are numerous private institutes around the country that currently offer truck driving courses. Some people think that taking a course is not exactly a requirement, but if you want to pass the test and get your license on the first attempt, it’s generally a wise move to enrol in a truck driving course. Here are a few things that you will learn when you decide to take a truck driving course.
The Basics
The first part of a truck driving course is all about the theory of the truck. Large vehicles have multiple axles, and driving them can be quite complicated. Therefore, the first and most important thing to do is to understand the theory behind all of the systems and learn all the important information about the truck. During the first day of the course, you will learn all there is to know about these trucks, along with what to do in the event of a malfunction.
Practice
These courses are taught on a one-to-one ratio, which means that you will have the instructor’s undivided attention. The instructor will sit down with you in the truck to give you some practical, hands-on experience in driving. These trucks are the latest models, so you won’t feel out of place when you sit down behind the steering wheel to take the test. The instructor will guide you through the checklist and give you tips and advice on how to drive as safely as possible. Reversing such a massive truck is a challenge in itself, so an extended part of the lesson will focus on that as well. Practicing a little in the reverse gear will give you experience and confidence when you actually sit down for the test.
Safety Systems
There are a number of safety systems installed in a truck that every driver should know about. The final portion of the truck driving course will focus on the different kinds of safety systems present in trucks, as well as the course of action that a driver should follow in case there is a serious emergency. By the time the course is complete, you will have extensive knowledge of all the systems in the truck and will be much more confident when dealing with any issues.