How to Become a Truck Driver: The Basics Explained
There are more than three million truck drivers currently working in the United States. While this is often seen as a thankless profession, during the coronavirus pandemic we all saw just how crucial truck drivers are to the supply chain.
If you are someone who likes to drive and travel around, then being a truck driver might be a great career for you. Of course, you might be wondering how to become a truck driver.
Luckily for you, we’ve got all of the information that you are looking for. So keep on reading and we will take you through everything that you will want to know!
Pass Your State’s Regular Driver’s License Exam
You can’t drive a truck before being allowed to drive a regular car. You need to have a current driver’s license in your state before you can get your CDL.
You might even be able to drive delivery trucks while you study for your CDL.
Complete High School or the GED
Many trucking employers expect their workers to at least have a high school diploma or a GED credential. It’s fairly easy to get a GED in most states.
Start Professional Training
You can find truck driving training programs that qualify you to take the CDL exam through trucking companies, private truck driving schools, and community colleges.
In some states, there are specific processes when it comes to accrediting and auditing these kinds of programs. So you want to make sure that you know your state’s rules and regulations.
A driver training program can take up to one year and can cost several thousand dollars.
A community college might provide financial support to students in these kinds of programs. Some colleges might even provide a one-year degree related to commercial freight or truck driving. You likely don’t need this to be allowed to drive a truck but it can a great way to earn a college degree.
There are also company-sponsored programs that can last around one month.
Find Job Placement Assistance
There are some truck driving schools that provide career counseling and job boards. Truck-driving associations can also help people connect with career mentors and employers.
Because many truck drivers are independent, they tend to use trucker payroll services.
Complete Your Employer’s Finishing Program
A lot of companies need new employees to complete their own training programs. These programs introduce the employee to the equipment, materials, and vehicles.
The programs can last several weeks and include supervised driving.
The Importance of Knowing How to Become a Truck Driver
Hopefully, after reading the above article, you now understand how to become a truck driver. As we can see, there is a lot of work involved in becoming a truck driver. But all of that work and preparation can pay off in the end.
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