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How to Become a Truck Driver

If you are interested in becoming a commercial truck driver, there are qualifications you must meet to get a job.

  • Get your commercial driver's license (CDL): In order to get your CDL, you will need to pass written and practical tests to show you understand how to operate commercial vehicles. You must be 21 to be able to get your CDL.
  • Pass a physical: Truck drivers must pass tests that include vision, hearing, and blood pressure checks.
  • Pass a background check: All drivers must undergo a background check.
  • Be proficient in English: Drivers must know enough English to read road signs, reports, and maps, and must be able to communicate with the public and law enforcement.
  • Pass a written exam: To meet DOT driver application requirements, drivers have to take an exam on Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
  • Meet company regulations: Trucking companies often have their own requirements for the truck driver application process. Check with companies you're interested in about their employment regulations.
  • Complete a truck driver training program: Before you can work as a commercial truck driver you must complete a truck driver training program that prepares you to drive and inspect your truck according to state and federal regulations.
  • Complete employer training: Most employers will require on-the-job training before you are driving on your own.

CDL.com also provides more content on landing your first job, tips, and insights on finding a job, and CDL requirements for different states. Follow the links below to learn more about becoming a commercial truck driver.

Getting Your Commercial Driver's License

If you are interested in getting your CDL), it is important to know these required steps provided by Driving Tests: Beginner Driver's Guide:

  • You must be at least 18 to drive intrastate (driving within only one state) and 21 to drive interstate (driving between multiple states).
  • To obtain your CDL, you must complete driver training with an FMCSA-approved training provider.
    • Not sure what CDL you need for your profession? DMV.org explains which CDL you should obtain based on your desired profession or preferred vehicle!
  • Submit your state's CDL Application and pay the fee.
  • Provide proof of state and US residency.
  • Provide any additional information required (Social Security number, etc.).
  • Complete and submit the Medical Examination Report and Certificate Forms.
  • Pass a vision and hearing test.
  • Pass a knowledge test.
  • Be issued a Commercial Learner's Permit and pass a road skill and driving examination.

CDL Training Today provides a list of CDL schools in the United States based on where you live!

Young Drivers

The Next Generation in Trucking Association is a non-profit with the goal of training the next generation of trucking professionals. Visit their website to find out more information about education programs in your state.

"I was driving down I-64, and there was a grass fire to the right. I pulled the mail truck over, safely away from the fire, and went to see if I could put it out. They only give you these little extinguishers in the truck, you know. So I'm spraying and stomping out the fire, and I look up and there are about six other truck drivers who have stopped and are helping me put out the fire. We got done just as the fire department shows up. We kinda said to them, 'Don't worry guys, we got this one for you.' But that is how truck drivers are, that is the community. Great people.”

Caroline

Benefits of Being a Truck Driver

The 7 best things about being a truck driver according to the CloudTrucks' blog:

  • Salary: New drivers can usually get about $50,000 annually and experienced drivers earn an average of $77,473 annually. Additionally, different trucking specialties such as Ice Road Driving, team driving, specialty driving, and oversized haul driving can all earn more!
  • Health Insurance: Most fleets or trucking companies provide you and your family with benefits such as health, vision, and dental insurance.
  • Job Security: There is an increasingly high demand for shipped goods, which increases the demand for truck drivers.
  • No Degree Required: Truck driving is a great career for people who do not want to spend too much time or money on getting a degree or certification. The cost to get your CDL is typically between $3,000 and $8,000, but many companies offer discounts.
  • Travel: While you will be working and not vacationing, trucking does offer a chance to see some of America's beautiful scenery, cities, and towns. Many companies will work with you to align vacation time to drop offs so you can enjoy a place for a bit longer before getting back on the road.
  • Freedom & Flexibility: Trucking has long been a career for those who prefer to set their own schedule and work without close supervision. Over-the-road drivers also have a lot more flexibility in the number of hours they work each week.
  • Improving Industry: Most fleets switch out their trucks to the newest models every 2-5 years. Drivers can experience the latest in navigation systems, and improvements to driver support and comfort.

Interview Tips and On-The-Road Training

Real Women in Trucking provides questions that you should ask when being interviewed by a potential employer.

  • Is trainee pay guaranteed?
  • How long is the training?
  • What are the average miles per week?
  • Can my child/spouse ride with me?
  • Can I request a same gender or female trainer? If not, are there separate sleeping accommodations for a different gender trainer?

Once you are hired, most companies require you to complete their over-the-road (OTR) training programs. Trucking Truth provides input from other drivers about what to expect during your OTR training:

  • You can expect to be on the road for at least four weeks, depending on your company and how many hours you need to log.
  • Expect to be sharing a small cab with your trainer. If you would prefer a same gender or female trainer, you should ask about this before taking the job.
  • Make sure to ask your trainer questions!
  • It will be hard, but it will be worth it!

To see what the inside of a trainer truck cab looks like, watch this video.