Is an office job just not for you? Maybe you hate being stuck inside a cubicle and having a boss always looking over your shoulder. Do you enjoy the open road, meeting people from all walks of life, and seeing the beauty of the countryside?
Then you should seriously consider a career in truck driving.
It’s a rewarding career for people with an adventurer’s spirit. Your job is to be the man behind the wheel of the king of all vehicles! How cool is that?
If you want to know how to become a truck driver, keep your eyes on this article.
Know What You’re Getting Into
The trucker’s life isn’t for everybody. It’s a full-time job that requires tremendous discipline. You’ll spend long hours driving by yourself and you have to sacrifice your time with your family.
While the pay is steady, your earning is based on the type of hauls you do, the company you work for, and your level of experience. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual wage is $45,260. Most truckers get paid by the mile, but some have a fixed salary or have an hourly rate.
Talk to an experienced truck driver if you get the chance. You’ll receive a lot of insight into the lifestyle of a trucker before you fully commit yourself to the field.
How to Become a Truck Driver: Qualifications and Licenses
What exactly are the requirements for becoming a truck driver? In most states, you have to be at least 21 years old with a clean driving record. Some schools and companies may also ask for a high school diploma or a GED equivalent.
The road to your trucking career begins when you get your commercial driver’s license (CDL). First, you need to attend trucking school to get the necessary training and prepare you for the CDL exam. The course usually lasts for about a month.
Many schools offer tuition assistance. You can also enter a company-sponsored program which will cover the costs of your schooling in exchange for a contract with them.
The CDL exam will generally have a written and a driving skills test. You can also get an endorsement to your CDL for specialized driving jobs, such as transport of hazardous materials.
You must also pass the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation exam. The exam includes getting a physical for hearing and eyesight and a written portion for your knowledge of federal traffic laws.
Get Hired
If you attended a company-sponsored program then you already have a job after getting your CDL. If not, you’ll have to check into job placement services. Most schools and truck-driving associations offer job boards.
Once you’re hired, you’ll typically go through an orientation, a training period, and sometimes a company trucking exam.
How to Get Paid More From Truck Driving
Experience is one of the determining factors to advance to a better position and better salary. You can also add to your endorsements to qualify for high-paying but riskier jobs.
Another option is to become the owner/operator of your own rig. The costs of owning a truck can be substantial but you can try your luck at semi truck auctions. As an owner-operator, you can start your own business and deal with companies directly.
Life on the Road
Now that you know how to become a truck driver, you’re ready to jumpstart your chosen career. It’s a hard path but also a very rewarding one.
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