Frequently Asked Questions

To become a truck driver, you need to:

1. Meet basic requirements: Be at least 18 (21 for interstate), have a valid driver's license, and pass a DOT physical.
2. Get CDL training: Enroll in a truck driving school (3-7 weeks) or company-sponsored training program.
3. Pass CDL tests: Complete written knowledge tests and a skills test (pre-trip inspection, basic control, road test).
4. Apply for jobs: Start applying to trucking companies. Many hire new CDL holders with no experience.

The entire process from start to first job typically takes 4-8 weeks.

Trucking can be an excellent career choice for the right person. Here's why:

• Job Security: There's a shortage of 80,000+ drivers, meaning high demand and job stability.
• Good Pay: New drivers earn $45,000-$55,000, experienced drivers $70,000-$100,000+.
• Quick Entry: Get trained and working in as little as 3-7 weeks.
• No College Debt: CDL training costs $3,000-$7,000 (or free with company sponsorship).
• Benefits: Most companies offer health insurance, 401(k), and paid time off.

However, it's not for everyone. Consider the time away from home (for OTR), physical demands, and lifestyle changes before committing.

Yes! The trucking industry actively welcomes new drivers. Here's how to get started with no experience:

• CDL Training Programs: Schools are designed for people with no prior trucking experience.
• Company-Sponsored Training: Many large carriers (Swift, Schneider, Prime, Werner) offer free or low-cost CDL training in exchange for a work commitment.
• Entry-Level Jobs: Thousands of trucking jobs are specifically for new CDL holders.

Most new drivers start with OTR (over-the-road) positions to build experience, then transition to local or regional routes after 1-2 years if desired.

Several factors can disqualify you from obtaining or keeping a CDL:

• DUI/DWI: Results in 1-year disqualification (lifetime if in a commercial vehicle or second offense)
• Drug Use: Positive drug test or refusing a test is disqualifying
• Certain Medical Conditions: Epilepsy, uncontrolled diabetes, severe vision/hearing impairment
• Serious Traffic Violations: Leaving the scene, reckless driving, causing a fatality
• Felony Convictions: Using a vehicle in a felony, drug trafficking

Many past issues have waiting periods after which you can qualify. Some conditions have exemption programs. Consult with a CDL school or attorney for specific situations.

CDL training programs vary in length:

• Accelerated Programs: 2-3 weeks (intensive, full-time)
• Standard Programs: 4-7 weeks (most common)
• Community College: 8-16 weeks (more comprehensive)
• Company-Sponsored: 2-6 weeks + finishing with a trainer

The actual CDL testing process typically takes 1-2 days after you complete training.

CDL training costs range widely:

• Private Schools: $3,000 - $7,000
• Community Colleges: $2,000 - $5,000
• Company-Sponsored: Free - $2,000 (with work commitment)

Financial aid options include federal grants, VA benefits, state workforce programs, and payment plans. Company-sponsored programs are the most affordable option if you're willing to commit to working for that carrier for 6-12 months.

The CDL test has two main components:

Written Tests:

• General Knowledge (50 questions, 80% to pass)
• Combination Vehicles (for Class A)
• Air Brakes (if applicable)
• Endorsement tests as needed

Skills Test (3 parts):

1. Pre-Trip Inspection: Walk around the vehicle explaining what you're checking
2. Basic Control: Straight-line backing, offset backing, alley dock (90° backing)
3. Road Test: 30-45 minute drive in traffic demonstrating safe operation

Most CDL schools have 85-95% pass rates. Study and practice during training, and you'll be well-prepared.

Endorsements expand your job opportunities and can increase pay:

• Hazmat (H): Required for hazardous materials. Requires TSA background check. Adds $3,000-$10,000+ to annual pay.
• Tanker (N): Required for liquid bulk tanks. Combined with Hazmat (X endorsement) is very valuable.
• Doubles/Triples (T): Required for pulling multiple trailers. Common for LTL carriers.
• Passenger (P): Required for buses carrying 16+ passengers.

For starting out, focus on getting your Class A CDL first. You can add endorsements later as needed for specific job opportunities.

There are many different trucking jobs to choose from:

• OTR (Over-the-Road): Long-haul routes across the country. 2-3 weeks out. Highest miles.
• Regional: Routes within a geographic area. Home weekly. Good balance of miles and home time.
• Local: Daily routes returning home each night. Lower miles but consistent schedule.
• Dedicated: Regular routes for specific customers. Predictable schedules and pay.
• LTL (Less-Than-Truckload): Multiple stops, often local/regional. Usually hourly pay.
• Flatbed: Open trailers for oversized loads. Requires tarping. Premium pay.
• Tanker: Liquid or dry bulk. Often local with hazmat. High pay.
• Owner Operator: Run your own business. Highest earning potential but also most responsibility.

The "best" company depends on your priorities. Here are some top-rated companies by category:

• Best Pay: Old Dominion, Saia, ABF Freight (LTL carriers)
• Best for New Drivers: Schneider, Werner, Prime (good training programs)
• Best Home Time: FedEx, UPS, local LTL companies
• Best for Owner Operators: Landstar, Mercer, Covenant
• Best Benefits: UPS, FedEx, Old Dominion (union or strong packages)

Research specific companies using our Company Directory and read driver reviews before making a decision.

When evaluating trucking companies, consider:

• Pay Structure: Per mile, hourly, or percentage? What's the average annual pay?
• Home Time: How often will you be home? Is it guaranteed?
• Benefits: Health insurance, 401(k), paid time off. When do they start?
• Equipment: Age of trucks, maintenance quality, assigned vs. slip-seat
• Safety Record: Check their CSA scores on the FMCSA website
• Miles: Are miles consistent? What's the average weekly/monthly?
• Freight: Touch vs. no-touch? Type of trailers?
• Culture: How do they treat drivers? Read reviews from current/former drivers

Truck driver salaries vary based on experience, job type, and location:

• Entry Level (0-1 year): $45,000 - $55,000/year
• Experienced (2-5 years): $60,000 - $75,000/year
• Veteran (10+ years): $75,000 - $100,000+/year
• Team Drivers: $120,000 - $200,000+/year (combined)
• Owner Operators: $150,000 - $300,000+/year (gross revenue)

LTL and specialized hauling (tanker, hazmat) typically pay more than dry van OTR. See our Salary Guide for detailed breakdowns.

Most major trucking companies offer competitive benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, vision (employee cost varies $50-$400/month)
• Retirement: 401(k) with company match (typically 3-6%)
• Paid Time Off: Vacation (1-4 weeks), holidays, sick days
• Life Insurance: Basic coverage often free
• Disability: Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Other Perks: Pet/rider policies, direct deposit, driver lounges, fuel discounts

Benefits typically begin after 30-90 days of employment, though some companies offer "benefits from day one."

Truck driver pay structures vary by job type:

• Per Mile (CPM): Most common for OTR and regional. Typical range $0.45-$0.70/mile.
• Hourly: Common for local, LTL, and P&D. Range $20-$35/hour with overtime.
• Percentage: Common for owner operators. Typically 65-80% of linehaul revenue.
• Salary/Guaranteed: Some dedicated positions offer weekly guarantees.

Additional pay often includes detention, stop pay, loading/unloading, and various bonuses.

Home time varies significantly by job type:

• Local: Home every day
• Regional: Home weekly or every few days
• OTR: Out 2-3 weeks, home 2-4 days
• Dedicated: Varies by account (some daily, some weekly)

New drivers typically start with OTR positions because they're most available, then transition to regional or local after gaining experience.

OTR truck drivers typically sleep in the sleeper berth - a small living space behind the driver's seat. Modern sleepers include:

• Full-size bed (single or double)
• Climate control (A/C and heat)
• Storage space and cabinets
• Some have TVs, refrigerators, microwaves

Drivers park overnight at truck stops, rest areas, or shipper/receiver facilities. Truck stops offer showers, restaurants, and other amenities. Some companies also provide hotel allowances for certain situations.

Pets: Many trucking companies allow pets (usually dogs or cats). There may be breed/size restrictions, refundable deposits ($200-$500), or monthly pet fees. About 40% of companies have pet policies.

Riders/Passengers: Many companies allow riders (spouse, family member, friend) to accompany drivers. Requirements typically include:

• Minimum driver tenure (30-90 days)
• Completed rider application
• Background check for rider
• Age restrictions (usually 18+ or 10+ with parent)

Check specific company policies, as they vary significantly.

Hours of Service regulations limit driving time to prevent fatigue-related accidents:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Maximum driving time after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour Limit: Cannot drive beyond 14 hours after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break: Required break after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Limit: Cannot drive after 60/70 hours on duty in 7/8 consecutive days
• 34-Hour Restart: Can restart weekly hours with 34 consecutive hours off duty

Drivers must log all hours using Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs).

An Electronic Logging Device (ELD) automatically records driving time and HOS compliance. Since December 2017, ELDs are mandatory for most commercial motor vehicle drivers who are required to keep Records of Duty Status (RODS).

Exemptions include:

• Drivers using paper logs for 8 days or fewer per 30-day period
• Driveaway-towaway operations
• Vehicles manufactured before model year 2000

Company drivers use employer-provided ELDs. Owner operators must purchase and maintain their own ($150-$500+ plus monthly fees).

A DOT physical is a medical examination required for CDL holders. It evaluates your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle by checking:

• Vision (20/40 in each eye)
• Hearing
• Blood pressure
• Overall physical and mental health

Frequency: The standard medical certificate is valid for 2 years. However, drivers with certain conditions (like controlled diabetes or high blood pressure) may receive 1-year certificates requiring annual exams.

The exam must be performed by a certified medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry. Cost is typically $75-$150 (often covered by employers).