Heartland Express Jobs for No Experience / Student Drivers
Heartland Express positions for drivers with 0-6 months experience. Pay: $55,000 - $80,000.
Pay Range
$55,000 - $80,000
Experience
0-6 months
Min Required
1 year CDL-A preferred (some recent graduate programs)
Fleet Size
5,000+ trucks
No Experience / Student Driving at Heartland Express
Heartland Express is a major irregular-route truckload carrier focused on short-to-medium haul lanes. Known for getting drivers home more frequently than typical OTR carriers, Heartland operates primarily in the eastern two-thirds of the U.S.
You are either fresh out of CDL school, currently in a training program, or considering a career change into trucking. Many mega-carriers offer paid training programs that require no prior experience. This is the starting point for most professional truck drivers.
Divisions Available
Benefits
- ✓ Medical, dental, and vision
- ✓ 401(k) with company match
- ✓ Paid orientation
- ✓ Late-model Freightliner equipment
- ✓ Weekly home time options
Tips for No Experience / Student Drivers
- 💡 Apply to carrier-sponsored CDL training programs from companies like CRST, Swift, or Werner — they cover tuition costs in exchange for a 1-year driving commitment.
- 💡 Get your CDL permit before applying to maximize your options. Study the CDL manual and practice at a local driving school if possible.
- 💡 Be prepared for 4-8 weeks of OTR training with a mentor driver before going solo. Use this time to learn real-world skills like backing, trip planning, and log management.
- 💡 Avoid lease-purchase agreements as a new driver — the financial terms heavily favor the carrier and many new drivers end up losing money.
FAQ
Does Heartland Express hire no experience / student drivers?
Heartland Express does accept no experience / student drivers. 1 year CDL-A preferred (some recent graduate programs).
How much does Heartland Express pay no experience / student drivers?
Heartland Express pays no experience / student drivers approximately $55,000 - $80,000. Actual pay depends on division, route type, and specific experience within the 0-6 months range.
What benefits does Heartland Express offer?
Heartland Express offers Medical, dental, and vision, 401(k) with company match, Paid orientation. Benefits are typically available after 60-90 days of employment.