The trucking industry is a pillar of the economy with consistent demand for qualified drivers, presenting an accessible career opportunity. This profession offers a path to stable employment for those seeking a hands-on role. While the entry process involves several steps, this guide provides a clear overview for becoming a commercial vehicle driver.
Meet the Basic Requirements
Prospective candidates must meet several prerequisites to ensure they are legally and physically capable of commercial driving. A driver must be at least 18 years old to operate a commercial vehicle within their home state (intrastate). To transport cargo across state lines (interstate), the federal minimum age is 21.
A candidate’s driving history is also closely examined, and a clean driving record free from major violations is necessary. Companies conduct background checks to assess criminal history. Aspiring drivers must be in good health, verified through a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam with a certified medical examiner. This exam assesses vision, hearing, blood pressure, and physical wellness. Applicants must also provide proof of legal residency or U.S. citizenship.
Get Your Commercial Learner’s Permit
Once the basic eligibility criteria are met, the first official step is obtaining a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). The CLP allows a student driver to legally practice operating a commercial vehicle on public roads, but only under the supervision of a qualified driver who holds a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
To acquire a CLP, an applicant must visit their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The process involves submitting an application, providing documentation to verify identity and residency, and passing a vision test. The main part of the CLP application is passing a series of written knowledge tests.
These tests cover information that all commercial drivers must know. The exams include a general knowledge test, a combination vehicles test for those intending to drive tractor-trailers, and an air brakes test. An applicant must score at least 80% on these exams to pass and be issued a CLP.
Complete Professional Truck Driver Training
With a CLP, the next stage is professional training. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that all new drivers complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a registered provider before taking their CDL skills test. This requirement ensures a standardized level of competency across the industry.
Aspiring drivers have several training options. Private truck driving schools offer intensive programs that can be completed in a few weeks. Community colleges provide CDL programs that may take eight to ten weeks and can sometimes be covered by financial aid. Another path is company-sponsored training, where a trucking company pays for training in exchange for a work commitment.
When evaluating programs, consider the instructor-to-student ratio, the quality of training vehicles, and the amount of behind-the-wheel driving time. Costs vary from a few thousand dollars at a community college to over $7,000 for some private programs. Training combines classroom instruction on regulations with hands-on experience covering maneuvers like backing, coupling trailers, and defensive driving.
Obtain Your Commercial Driver’s License
After completing professional training, the final step is to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) by passing a three-part skills test. The first part is the vehicle inspection test, where the applicant must conduct a thorough pre-trip inspection and explain the function of various truck components to an examiner.
The second part evaluates basic control skills in a closed-off area. This section requires the driver to perform several backing maneuvers designed to test precision and control of the vehicle and trailer in tight spaces. The final part is the on-road driving test, where an examiner assesses the ability to safely navigate real-world traffic, including turns, intersections, and highway driving.
Different CDL classes determine the type of vehicle a driver can operate. A Class A CDL allows operation of combination vehicles like tractor-trailers with a gross weight of 26,001 pounds or more. A Class B CDL is for single vehicles over that weight, such as dump trucks. Drivers can also add endorsements to their CDL by passing additional tests, qualifying them for specialized hauling like hazardous materials (HazMat), tankers, or double/triple trailers.
Find Your First Trucking Job
With a CDL, the next step is finding the first job. Research potential employers, including large national carriers and smaller local companies, to compare pay, benefits, and culture. Many truck driving schools also offer job placement assistance to connect graduates with hiring companies.
The type of trucking job chosen will impact your lifestyle. Over-the-Road (OTR) positions involve long-haul trips, keeping drivers away from home for weeks. Regional jobs involve driving within a specific part of the country and typically allow drivers to be home on weekends, while local driving jobs mean the driver is home daily.
Many companies have programs for new drivers. A first-year driver may be paired with an experienced trainer for several weeks to complete in-house training. Some companies also start new drivers in a team-driving configuration, where two drivers share one truck to gain experience on long-haul routes.