CRST International Driver Pay
Below Average — #38 of 40$48,000 - $80,000/year
Last updated: 2026-03-01
CRST International Pay Overview
CRST is best known as an entry-level carrier with paid CDL training. New drivers typically start as team drivers in CRST Expedited, paired with an experienced trainer. Starting pay for new team drivers is on the lower end of the industry, but it provides a viable path into trucking with no upfront cost. CRST Malone (flatbed) pays considerably more but requires experience. Solo and dedicated positions have expanded in recent years.
Pay by Experience Level
CPM increases with verifiable experience — here is what to expect at each stage.
| Experience | Pay Range |
|---|---|
| 0-1 year | $0.38 - $0.44/mi |
| 1-3 years | $0.44 - $0.50/mi |
| 3-5 years | $0.50 - $0.56/mi |
| 5-10 years | $0.56 - $0.62/mi |
| 10+ years | $0.62 - $0.68/mi |
Pay by Equipment Type
| Equipment | CPM / Hourly |
|---|---|
| Dry Van (Team) | $0.50 - $0.70/mi split |
| Dry Van (Solo) | $0.38 - $0.60/mi |
| Flatbed (CRST Malone) | $0.50 - $0.68/mi |
| Dedicated | $0.46 - $0.64/mi |
Pay by Job Type
OTR (Team)
$55,000 - $80,000 each
per year
OTR (Solo)
$48,000 - $68,000
per year
Flatbed
$58,000 - $82,000
per year
Dedicated
$52,000 - $78,000
per year
Bonuses & Incentives
Sign-On Bonus
Up to $5,000 for experienced team and flatbed drivers
Safety Bonus
Quarterly safety bonuses
Referral Bonus
$500 - $1,000 per hired referral
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel bonus for top-performing teams
Benefits Package
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Health Insurance | Medical plans after 60 days |
| Dental | Dental plan available |
| Vision | Vision plan available |
| Retirement | 401(k) plan available |
| Paid Time Off | Paid vacation after 1 year |
| Tuition Reimbursement | Fully paid CDL training — CRST's signature benefit |
Pay Schedule, Home Time & Per Diem
Pay Schedule
Weekly direct deposit
Home Time
Team: Varies (often 2-3 weeks out) | Solo: Every 2 weeks | Flatbed: Regional options
Per Diem
$52/day per diem for OTR drivers
How CRST International Pay Compares
CRST International ranks #38 out of 40 carriers tracked — rated Below Average for driver compensation.
| Company | Overall Pay Range |
|---|---|
| CRST International (this carrier) | $48,000 - $80,000 |
| Werner Enterprises | $52,000 - $80,000 |
| Schneider National | $50,000 - $85,000 |
| J.B. Hunt Transport Services | $55,000 - $95,000 |
| Knight-Swift Transportation | $50,000 - $85,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does CRST pay per mile?
CRST pays $0.38-$0.68/mi depending on division and experience. New team drivers start around $0.38-$0.44/mi, while experienced CRST Malone (flatbed) drivers earn $0.50-$0.68/mi. Starting pay is below average, but it is an entry-level training carrier.
Does CRST pay for CDL training?
Yes, CRST offers fully paid CDL training with no upfront cost. In exchange, graduates commit to driving for CRST (typically 10-12 months as a team driver). If you leave early, you may owe the remaining training cost balance.
How much do CRST team drivers make?
CRST team drivers each earn $55,000-$80,000 annually. New graduates start at the lower end while training, with increases as they gain experience. Team miles are high (8,000-11,000/month per team), so even at lower CPM, total pay adds up.
What is CRST Malone?
CRST Malone is the flatbed division of CRST International. It pays higher CPM ($0.50-$0.68/mi) than the expedited (team) division because flatbed work requires loading, securing, and tarping skills. CRST Malone requires prior experience.
Is CRST good for new drivers?
CRST is one of the most accessible carriers for people with no CDL or experience. The paid training and guaranteed team pairing provide a structured entry into trucking. However, starting pay is below average and you will likely be on the road for extended periods as a new team driver.
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