How To Become A Truck Driver

Driving a truck can be a great way to make a living. The pay is good, and the job offers a great deal of freedom and flexibility. Before you can get behind the wheel you have to get your commercial driver's license. Once you've passed the required tests, you can work for a company or as an independent driver.

truck driving jobs are usually related with reasonable, steady pay and long, hard hours. truck drivers are responsible for transporting important, and often, expensive load. without truck drivers, trade wouldn't exist as it does today. Being a truck driver is a great career choice for many men and women across the United States.

General requirements for truck driving


You must be over 21 years of age to drive a truck over state lines. You won't be able to get a CDL if you don't have a clean driving record.  You need to have good hearing, eyesight, normal use of your arms and legs, and normal blood pressure. Employers are required to check their drivers for drug and alcohol use. Having a criminal record may be a problem for some, but not all, employers. Also, you must hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) to drive any vehicle over 26,000 pounds, carrying hazardous materials or over sized loads. In addition, to qualify for a CDL you need to pass a written test and a physical examination.

Know what to expect as salary



Your salary will vary based on the type of trucking work you do, the company you work for, and your level of experience. That said, most truck drivers earn starting salaries around $30,000 per year.
After five to seven years of experience within a specific field, your salary will usually increase to around $55,000 per year. The likelihood of seeing an increase in your salary also improves if you stay with the same company.
Note that some trucking jobs pay more than others. Typically, drivers who work with hazardous chemicals, gas transport, or other dangerous fleet earn more than those whose work does not involve such materials.

On the down side, trucking jobs can be very demanding. Expect to be on the road for 12 hours a day, if not longer. You'll need to meet tight delivery deadlines, and the job can be dangerous, especially if you carry hazardous materials, but remember "more hardness = more money''


Talk with established truck drivers


If you have the opportunity to do so, try talking with a few established truck drivers. Ask them about their experiences and explain your interest in the field.
Find out if anyone in your social circle knows of someone with a career in truck driving. If you cannot make use of any personal connections, consider talking with a few truck drivers at a truck stop.
Depending on how things go, you may receive a few referral cards. Save them for later if you do; these cards may make it easier to attend school or find work.

note: you can ask any truck driver about salaries. salary changes from country to country, company to company, year to another.  

Study the commercial driver's manual


Visit your nearest Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) office and ask for a copy of the state commercial driver's manual. Many state DMV websites also have digital copies available online.
This manual will tell you all you need to know about obtaining your commercial driver's license (CDL) within your state. Review the information about fees, classes, and restrictions. Study its contents to learn about the various traffic and safety laws associated with commercial driving.
Since traffic laws can change, you'll need to make sure that you study using the most recent edition of the manual. New editions are typically printed on a yearly basis

Skills you will learn in this driving course


  • understand how to start a truck.
  • shift gears.
  • stay in your lane or switch lanes.
  • back up and reverse the semi-truck.
  • park the truck.
  • manage your speed on the highway.
  • make controlled turns without putting cars and other vehicles in danger.
  • deal with traffic crowding.
  • handle difficulties in the road.
  • Other behind-the-wheel instruction.

know what you're getting into The life of a trucker isn't an easy one, and it's certainly not for everyone. Long hours and a lot of time away from home can strain personal relationships. research what it's like to be a truck driver through the web or by asking people you know. Discuss what you've learned about the possibilities with your family before you jump into trucking headfirst
commercial truck driving can be a rewarding career, especially if you really enjoy driving and don't mind spending long periods of time away from home. Becoming a truck driver doesn't often take much time, but you do need to have some experience before you can land a job.