Entry Level Trucking Jobs in Tennessee
Find truck driver positions in Tennessee for drivers with 6 months - 1 year of experience. Browse available job types, expected pay, and top hiring companies in TN.
Experience Level
6 months - 1 year
Expected Pay
$45,000 - $55,000
TN CDL-A Avg
$57,200
Entry Level Truck Driver Jobs in Tennessee
Tennessee offers strong opportunities for drivers with 6 months - 1 year of experience. Tennessee is a major logistics state stretching from Memphis (the busiest cargo airport in North America via FedEx) to Nashville (booming economy) to Knoxville (gateway to the Southeast). The state's central location and business-friendly policies attract distribution operations. With key industries including Air cargo & logistics (FedEx, Memphis), Automotive manufacturing (Nissan, GM, VW), Healthcare (Nashville HCA, hospital supply), entry level drivers in TN can find positions in multiple freight sectors.
Jobs Available at 6 months - 1 year Experience in TN
Salary Data for Tennessee
| License Type | TN Average |
|---|---|
| CDL-A | $57,200 |
| CDL-B | $46,000 |
| Non-CDL | $39,200 |
| Owner-Operator (Gross) | $200,000 |
Cost of Living Index: 90 (100 = national avg) | Adjusted purchasing power: $63,556
Companies Hiring Entry Level Drivers
Major Trucking Cities in Tennessee
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do entry level truck drivers make in Tennessee?
Entry Level truck drivers (6 months - 1 year) in Tennessee typically earn $45,000 - $55,000 annually. The overall CDL-A average in Tennessee is $57,200. Actual pay depends on the carrier, freight type, and endorsements held.
What trucking companies hire entry level drivers in Tennessee?
Major carriers that recruit entry level drivers in Tennessee include Heartland Express, USA Truck, Marten Transport, and others with terminals or operations in TN. Check each carrier's website for current Tennessee openings.
What CDL jobs can I get with 6 months - 1 year experience in Tennessee?
With 6 months - 1 year of experience in Tennessee, you can apply for positions including Company OTR driver (solo), Regional dry van driver, Refrigerated OTR driver. Tennessee's key industries (Air cargo & logistics (FedEx, Memphis) and Automotive manufacturing (Nissan, GM, VW)) create additional specialized opportunities.