Entry Level Truck Driver Salary in North Carolina
6 months - 1 year experience. Pay in North Carolina (NC): $43,000 - $56,000.
North Carolina Pay
$43,000 - $56,000
National Avg
$45,000 - $58,000
vs National
-$2,000
Experience
6 months - 1 year
Entry Level Driver Pay in North Carolina
You have completed your initial training period and have been driving solo for several months. You are building confidence in your skills and establishing your safety record. At this stage, more carriers are willing to hire you and pay rates start improving noticeably.
In North Carolina, entry level drivers earn $43,000 - $56,000 — below the national average. North Carolina's freight market, cost of living, and carrier competition influence local pay rates.
Pay by Equipment in North Carolina
Your equipment type significantly impacts earnings at the entry level level:
| Equipment | Est. NC Pay |
|---|---|
| Dry Van | $43k - $56k |
| Reefer | $46k - $60k |
| Flatbed | $49k - $64k |
| Tanker | $52k - $67k |
| Hazmat | $54k - $70k |
Companies Hiring in North Carolina
FAQ
How much do entry level truck drivers make in North Carolina?
Entry Level truck drivers (6 months - 1 year experience) in North Carolina earn approximately $43,000 - $56,000 per year. This is below the national average of $45,000 - $58,000.
What companies hire entry level drivers in North Carolina?
Top companies hiring entry level drivers in North Carolina include Heartland Express, USA Truck, Marten Transport. Many offer paid CDL training programs.
How can entry level drivers increase their pay in North Carolina?
The fastest way to increase pay is gaining experience and adding endorsements (hazmat, tanker). Most drivers see a significant raise after their first year.