Who is SAGE? The first SAGE School opened in July of 1989 in Billings, Montana.  For over a decade, the SAGE Corporation has provided high quality, comprehensive professional tractor-trailer driver training to thousands of students across the country.

Our programs are unique: unlike most truck driving schools, SAGE'S truck driving instruction is conducted on a private, one-on-one basis on the road. There is never more than one student in a truck.

What do I need to start this program? You must have the following items prior to starting class. A copy of your:

• DOT Physical
• Driver License (front and back)
• Social Security card
• Motor Vehicle Report for at least the last five (5) years
• DOT Drug Test (you will get the Chain of Custody form at our office to take to lab and we must have results before attending any classes) 

Where is the school located? SAGE has 31 schools throughout the nation. MCC's Neal Campus - Kingman has one of the most relaxed and pleasant settings possible for training. A few of our out-of-town students have actually decided to make the Kingman area their home after attending our course.

What are the admission requirements? All applicants are required to complete an Enrollment Application, provide a copy of a valid driver’s license and a copy of a physical examination on a DOT form (available at the School). Students must be able to pass a drug screen. Admission is open to high school graduates/GED (or those who complete an ability-to-benefit test). Applicants must possess a driving record free of current serious violations. Applicants who satisfy these criteria are asked to sign an Enrollment Agreement.

Where can I go to get tested for my AZDOT license?  SAGE at MCC now has an AZDOT Certified CDL Examiner, and offers third-party skills and drive testing on our campus! 

What kind of career can I expect? Trucking is not what it was ten years ago, or even two years ago. It’s changing for the better. Companies realize that in order to attract good drivers they need to make driving a comfortable and enjoyable profession. The response of the industry has been to provide better pay, newer, more advanced equipment, and excellent benefits. 

What do truck drivers earn? Newly trained drivers typically earn $32,000 to $34,000 per year according to industry data, and can earn up to $35,000 their first year out of a good school.  The average experienced driver earns over $40,000 plus benefits, according to the ATA, and motivated drivers with some experience can earn well over that amount.  Owner/Operators who own their own trucks can earn over $100,000 per year. 

What kinds of benefits are typically offered by truck driving companies? Benefits offered by trucking companies have also improved to meet drivers’ demands. Companies usually offer full insurance (health, dental, vision, life and disability), paid vacation/holiday/sick days, profit sharing, stock options, retirement plans such as 401(k)s, tuition reimbursement plans, ride-along programs, and other benefits. They also recognize that getting a driver home to his or her family frequently is very important. Good employers make every effort to get drivers home on a regular basis. 

What kinds of trucks can I expect to be driving? Trucks are also being redesigned to accommodate the needs of drivers. Most companies operate fleets of virtually new trucks. Many have spacious cabs with full beds, TVs/VCRs and refrigerators. The trucks have special "air ride" suspension systems to allow a comfortable drive.  Drivers are no longer required to maintain and repair their company truck; the company fleet manager takes care of that for them!  Most communication is now done by satellite and computer, which increases efficiency and reduces paperwork. Truckers now often talk by e-mail and surf the Web from their trucks!  

Are there any financial aid options? Student loans are available, as well as agency funding for those who qualify. If you are a Veteran, disabled, unemployed, laid-off, lacking adequate job skills you could be eligible. Please contact us to discuss these options.  

What is the program like? Our most popular program, the TTD150 (Tractor-Trailer Driver, Basic) provides the student with all the basic knowledge and practical skills necessary to become an entry-level over-the-road truck driver. The program consists of 150 hours of instruction (44 driving hours) conducted over 4-5 weeks and meets the needs of students with no prior knowledge or experience in truck driving.