Pursuing one of my childhood dreams....
Lying in my bed (with Sweetie napping by my side, as usual) I caught a memory whilst reading online, of one of my childhood dreams. This dream, in particular, was as a result of a popular show from the 70's-80's called "BJ and the bear". I remember it being fun, action-backed, and age-appropriate (of course), and my inspiration (which was probably fuelled by the 'tomboy' in me) was to drive an 18-wheeler like the one driven by the star of the movie!During different periods in my life, and usually whenever I see these trucks, I'm awed by their presence - powerful, majestic, over-shadowing, amazing pieces of engineering. Yes, I still want to drive one!
Now that I'm retired, with the time to do something like that, I'm going to investigate how I could make this childhood dream come true.
Day one - Enquire about driver-training and testing/licensing
Stay tuned for updates...
Comments (55)
Based upon the research (online), I first have to apply for and acquire a Class 4 (Heavy Truck) license. After 1 year, I can then apply for a Class 5 (Extra-Heavy Truck) license. So, if I get the Class 4 by year's end, then Class 5 could be had by the end of 2023.
Sounds like a plan. Now to find a nearby Driving school to get details about the cost for tuition, days for training, etc.
To get the whole license is costly. Very costly.
And then it has to be renewed now and then, and ... no.. forget it.
Another option may be.... possibly you can drive one at private land.
So find a man with a truck and some private land et voila!
Maybe you'll get a bf while at it too...
pedestrians down the street
pedestrians down the street
To get the whole license is costly. Very costly.
And then it has to be renewed now and then, and ... no.. forget it.
Another option may be.... possibly you can drive one at private land.
So find a man with a truck and some private land et voila!
Maybe you'll get a bf while at it too...
So... book your fist class? take a few selfies for us....
(I'll teach you how to upload them here)
So... book your fist class? take a few selfies for us....
(I'll teach you how to upload them here)
Btw, thanks for offering to show me how to post the selfies on here.
Day 2: Morning update -
I consulted with a male friend about my intention, and (sadly) all I got from him was that the type of vehicle used for training would be a "double axle" truck. I'm not sure how that helps my research, but....
I then consulted with another friend who drives "Heavy" vehicles (he works with the local public-transport company), and got so much more to go on. These details are:
* Get a Heavy T Learners' permit;
* Take the Regulations Exam;
* Get practical training with a tutor using the same/similar vehicle that will be used for the 'on-the-road' test;
* Note that most Heavy T vehicles are Manual/Stick shift, so you should practice with one:
* Beware of tutors who ask for bribes/encourage you to 'buy' the license;
* Ask friends to give you opportunities to practice on their Heavy T vehicles, so that you won't have to pay for many tutorials;
*Only make an appointment for the practical exam, when you feel sure you are ready. Don't rush it.
I must admit, that even though I learned to drive on a manual vehicle (1987), I've become extremely comfortable with the automatic transmission. I'm not looking forward to the driving a stick shift again, but we'll see...
I have completed the application form for a Learners' permit and plan on going to the Licensing Office (aka DMV) soon. I also go the contact number of a tutor; I'll call for more details, especially costs.
The journey continues....
Day 2: Afternoon update -
So, I called the number of the Driving tutor, and I was given the following details:
* Make a scheduled appointment to visit chosen Licensing Office location;
* Present the completed application form, 4 passport-sized pics (green background colour), a recent Medical Certificate and a home utility bill, in order to qualify and receive a Heavy T Learners' Permit;
* Print/download Heavy T regulations, study them, take and pass test;
*To begin training, I must first drive a manual car (as evidence that I can, which I haven't done since 2001);
* Progress to Heavy T training until ready for 'on-the-road' exam;
* Rent truck for Exam day;
* Pay for Heavy T License (once successful).
NB. Approximate cost for everything (except the number of tutorial sessions is TT$900. The cost of an half hour manual (car) practice session is TT$70, and the cost of an half hour manual (truck) is TT$100. So I need to have at least TT$1,100 to proceed.
Whew!....That's it for Day 2, people. The saga continues....
so go ahead maybe but bring the cellphone for selfies.
I wanna see you sacred face haha
"Sacred", or scared?
Well, it certainly sounded scary when my friend (the second guy) explained the training. It's very intricate learning how to manoeuvre a tall and lengthy truck, so that you don't knock anything/anyone over...
Soon we'll find out if your nerves are better than mine hehe.
I recently found out what I was supposed to become in my life: an architect.
Perhaps a bit late now... but at least now I know what I should have done before.
Perhaps a bit late now... but at least now I know what I should have done before.I'm certain that you were to "become" more than that...we all are, so don't worry about it being "a bit late". If you want to try, then try; and don't think that you have to give up what you're doing now so that you can pursue your dream.
Good morning folks...
Today, I went online to make an appointment at the Licensing Office. I have a confirmed date for next Friday afternoon, at the southern branch, and realized that I may NOT need to provide a Medical certificate, after all. The guidelines only mentioned 65 years and older candidates, so it seems that I may be 'in the clear' for another 8/9 years. lol!
And she rested on the 3rd day....
Hope you all are having a blessed day.
When they find out you are a woman they will not ask for a medical,
they will ask for 20 push ups to see if you qualify.
When they find out you are a woman they will not ask for a medical,
they will ask for 20 push ups to see if you qualify.
It's 4 days away from my appointment at the Licensing Office, and I need to ensure that I collect all that is required. Thing is, it's been raining a lot and, even though I like the rain, I've not been enthusiastic about going out in it. I did make a quick visit to nearby mini-mart for snacks, but that's different.
Anyhoo, I'll try again tomorrow....
(I actually support your dream... dunn worry..)-
So in the 18 wheelers cabin, I recommend always have an umbrella ready
as filling 'er up might take 5min... and those truck pumps are often under open sky.
(I actually support your dream... dunn worry..)-
So in the 18 wheelers cabin, I recommend always have an umbrella ready
as filling 'er up might take 5min... and those truck pumps are often under open sky.
So, this is the week of my appointment at the Licensing Office, to apply for my Heavy T learners' permit. It's scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, and I'm really excited about making that first step.
2 more days to go...
(light heavy / first step above car)
(light heavy / first step above car)
So, I settled for sitting in a F1 car at Daytona International speedway while I waited to participate in a Mercedes Benz AMG Challenge that same morning. After finishing ground school there and having fun on the inside track I drove a 2003 Mercedes E55 AMG one lap on the big track. Exhilarating!
So, I settled for sitting in a F1 car at Daytona International speedway while I waited to participate in a Mercedes Benz AMG Challenge that same morning. After finishing ground school there and having fun on the inside track I drove a 2003 Mercedes E55 AMG one lap on the big track. Exhilarating!
My step-son took these of me running through a slalom course at Daytona long time ago. Believe it or not, I am smiling in the car for this driving event too.
I'd still like to do this too sometime on ice ....
My step-son took these of me running through a slalom course at Daytona long time ago. Believe it or not, I am smiling in the car for this driving event too.
Yep! I believe it...from ear to ear!
WOW! That looks really exciting....but also a bit scary?
As of yesterday afternoon, the islands of the Southern Caribbean and some of South America are officially under Storm Watch.
Almost all schools and some businesses are closed in preparation for the Storm, and of course all government safety and disaster preparedness agencies are on the alert. What this means for me, personally, is that even if we successfully come through the storm (God alone knows for sure), my appointment at the Licensing Office may (again) be postponed.
Sadly....my 'dream' continues to be deferred.
And keep your shotgun loaded. They mostly come at night, mostly.
Okay okay.. maybe I seen to many movies...
And keep your shotgun loaded. They mostly come at night, mostly.
Okay okay.. maybe I seen to many movies...