The classification you qualify for will determine the type of truck and cargo you are authorized to drive and carry. To gain your CDL, you must pass a written exam and then each state may have its own unique requirements after that.
Some people decide to attend a trade school program that prepares them for the CDL exam while giving hands-on practice operating heavy trucks. Others may simply study the CDL manual and take the practice tests to prepare. Employers are also looking for people who are dependable, have self-control, and integrity. You also want to ensure you can handle stressful situations, can stay alert for long periods of time and not become distracted, and that you pay attention to detail.
This job requires you to be an independent worker with the ability to make sound decisions. A truck driver must always inspect their cargo and their truck to ensure it will operate safely and that cargo is secured with cables, rope, or other materials. It is vital they follow all appropriate safety procedures, especially when transporting dangerous goods. Along with operating their truck, they may also need to work any other equipment that may assist to unload cargo.
Communication is also key to truck drivers. Many truckers communicate with one another on the road and report any road hazards, weather conditions, and other vital information that may be useful. Navigating from one destination to another via the safest and most efficient route is also vital, so truck drivers must feel comfortable following a map or GPS, and also comfortable making quick decisions if an area on their route becomes inaccessible.
These drivers work under time pressure every day and find themselves in hot or cold temperatures. Most truck drivers work at least 40 hours a week. Reporting all infractions, fines, and other violations to the employer. Notifying the employer about accidents, crashes, or other hazards experienced during the trip e. Obtaining signed receipts of delivery for transported goods. Show more. Related Questions.
How to become a Truck Driver? What is a Truck Driver? How much does a Truck Driver make? Answer Questions. What does a Rapper do? What is a High School Teacher? What does a Financial Planner do? Related Jobs. Local Dedicated Truck Driver. Truck Driver - OTR. CDL-A truck driver. For Job Seekers. For Employers. Industry associations put on conferences, events, and advocacy opportunities.
Many have an ambassador program. After working for a retail or transportation company, you may decide to work for yourself. Owner-operators are self-employed and have a truck or small fleet.
It requires significant investment to own a fleet. Still, it can be rewarding to work for yourself, especially if you can embrace the lifestyle. If you decide the hours, stress, and long treks aren't for you in the long run, a new career might suit you. You can translate your experience in route planning and customer service into non-driving jobs in logistics. Transportation and logistics companies sometimes hire experienced drivers into administrative roles.
Your training program will combine theoretical learning with practical driving experience. Typically, programs start in the classroom then build up to road driving, including:. It takes students by surprise when they have to work hour shifts for consecutive days, but it's possible, as long as you're within your hours of service. The long hours go for everyone — not just cross-country trucking.
Even when I was able to come home after my shift, it was just to sleep. That means when my daughter was little, I was on the road before she was up in the morning and returning home after her bedtime. If you have a CDL, you'll never be out of the job. But a lot of our students still want a full year of college experience.
Our curriculum focuses on gaining CDL licensure in the first semester and offers a pathway to a one-year degree in commercial freight entrepreneurship.
In semester two, students can choose their own path and take different classes, like commercial freight business entrepreneurship, marketing, or HR. There are for-profit programs out there, too, but the interest rates cost can be extreme. We're also working toward building a program that is eligible for financial aid, which can make a big difference for students. Maybe you're drawn to a career in truck driving because of your love for automobiles.
If this sounds like you, consider other career paths, such as becoming a mechanic or a mechanical engineer. You can also explore your unique interests and career personality type by taking the free Lantern Career Interest Quiz.
The quiz is designed to show you what potential careers match up to what you care most about. Several companies run their own CDL training programs and hire graduates. In these programs, the company typically won't charge you any upfront costs. Instead, they will deduct small installments from your paycheck once they employ you. Also, after working with them for a set amount of time, they may partially or fully reimburse your tuition costs.
Most states require renewal every four years, but make sure to consult your state's specific guidelines. Some employers offer health and life insurance programs. Some don't. Do your homework on a company's policies. Self-employed drivers may have to buy private insurance through state exchanges. That depends on your employer. You could be paid per hour, per mile, per load or weight, or by salary.
According to the BLS, long-haul truckers are typically paid by the mile. The FMCSA requires drivers to limit their driving time to 14 straight hours and no more than 60 driving hours within seven days. Drivers are required to log their hours. There's a wealth of information available online for current truckers or new drivers seeking their licenses. Learn more about federal and state regulations, safety issues, and ways to prevent illegal activities on the road:.
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