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Over-the-Road (OTR) Jobs

Long-haul trucking across state lines with extended time on the road. OTR drivers cover thousands of miles weekly, delivering freight coast to coast.

Average Pay

$55,000 - $85,000

Home Time

2-3 weeks out

Experience Required

6+ months CDL-A

What to Expect as a OTR Driver

Over-the-road trucking is the backbone of the American freight economy. OTR drivers cover 2,000 to 3,000 miles per week, hauling general freight, consumer goods, and raw materials across state lines. Routes span coast to coast, and drivers spend extended periods away from home -- typically two to three weeks at a time before a home-time reset.

Most OTR positions run no-touch freight, meaning drivers are not responsible for loading or unloading. This keeps the focus on safe driving and meeting delivery windows. Many carriers offer slip-seating or assigned trucks with amenities like APUs, refrigerators, and inverters to make life on the road more comfortable.

New CDL holders often start in OTR because it builds experience quickly. After six to twelve months, many drivers transition to regional or dedicated lanes with more predictable schedules. OTR remains popular with experienced drivers who enjoy the open road and the higher mileage pay that comes with long-haul routes.

Carriers like Werner Enterprises, Knight-Swift, and Prime Inc. operate massive OTR fleets with consistent freight networks. Sign-on bonuses, mileage incentives, and safety bonuses are common. If you want maximum miles and are comfortable spending time away from home, OTR offers some of the strongest earning potential in trucking.

Key Highlights

  • 2,000-3,000 miles per week typical
  • No-touch freight on most lanes
  • Sign-on bonuses up to $15,000
  • Great way to build CDL experience quickly

Open OTR Positions

Over-the-Road (OTR) - Dallas TX

Werner EnterprisesDallas, TX$55,000 - $85,000

Posted 1 day ago

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Over-the-Road (OTR) - Atlanta GA

Schneider NationalAtlanta, GA$55,000 - $85,000

Posted 2 days ago

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Over-the-Road (OTR) - Chicago IL

J.B. Hunt Transport ServicesChicago, IL$55,000 - $85,000

Posted 3 days ago

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Over-the-Road (OTR) - Nashville TN

Knight-Swift TransportationNashville, TN$55,000 - $85,000

Posted 4 days ago

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Over-the-Road (OTR) - Phoenix AZ

Heartland ExpressPhoenix, AZ$55,000 - $85,000

Posted 5 days ago

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Frequently Asked Questions About OTR Driving

How many miles do OTR drivers average per week?

Most OTR drivers average 2,000 to 3,000 miles per week, depending on the carrier, freight lanes, and driving conditions. Solo drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving per day under HOS rules, while team drivers can cover significantly more ground by trading shifts.

Do OTR drivers get to choose their routes?

It depends on the carrier. Some OTR positions are dispatched -- the carrier assigns loads and routes. Others, especially at carriers like Landstar, allow drivers to pick their own freight from available loads. Seniority and performance often influence route preferences at most companies.

What is the typical home time for OTR truckers?

OTR drivers typically spend two to three weeks on the road before getting two to four days at home. Some carriers offer more frequent home time (every 7-14 days), but this usually means fewer miles and lower pay. Home time policies vary significantly between carriers.