If you are looking for answers on how to become a truck driver, you have found the right place. My name is Joe and I am going to show you everything you need to do to become a truck driver, step by step. So grab a cuppa joe and absorb all the information on this site.
3 Steps to take to become a truck driver
The first step is to make sure that you meet all of the requirements to sit your commercial driver’s license.
- Are you over 21 (or at least 18 years old if your state allows young drivers to drive commercial vehicles intrastate)?
- Do you hold a clean current drivers license (yes your automobile driving history does affect your CDL application)?
- Have you a criminal record? Certain felony convictions can stop you becoming a truck driver
- Are you in good physical and mental health? Will you pass the DOT test? If you suffer from certain long term illnesses such as diabetes, you need to check with your local DVLA office whether you can apply for a CDL.
Step 2 – Passing the CDL knowledge tests is the next step to becoming a truck driver
Before you set foot in the cab of a truck, most states will require you to pass the relevant CDL knowledge tests. All drivers need to pass the general knowledge section. The other papers you need to sit will depend on which endorsements you want to apply for when sitting your CDL exam.
If you are under 21, some states will not allow you to sit your H endorsement as you are not yet old enough to drive a truck transporting hazardous materials.
Step 3 – Attending truck driving school is the next step to becoming a truck driver
You will need to attend truck driving school to learn how to drive a rig properly and pass the skills section of the commercial driving license process. There are tons of truck driving schools out there so how do you pick the right one?
As with every type of educational program, there are some great schools and there are those that are a waste of money. Look for ones that have been accredited by an agency approved by the U.S Department of Education. The best truck driving schools will share these characteristics:
Your driving time must exceed 44 hours – this is the standard set by the professional truck driver institute and should be one of the first things you look for. Yes you need to know the theory about driving and how to inspect your vehicle but most of your time should be spent actually driving a rig.
Equipment – you want to learn on relatively new but well maintained rigs not one that was in fashion fifty years ago! One of the modules in the CDL knowledge is based on air brakes. You won’t find these in old trucks. Also the school should have enough trucks for the number of students taking the course. You don’t want to have to share a truck with another student as it will take you much longer to build up your 44 hours driving experience.
Financing – attending truck driving school will cost you money not just for the tuitions costs but also in the money you will lose by not working while you are studying. Most courses should run for at least a month but six weeks would be better. You need to make sure you have sufficient money to cover your expenses during this time.
Job placement – There may be plenty of truck driving jobs being advertised but the majority want you to have some experience actually driving. The better truck driving schools cannot guarantee you a job but they can work with you to get you started. A lot of schools have arrangements in place with the bigger freight companies. You may not earn a lot in your first few jobs but you will gain the valuable experience other employers are looking for.
Hopefully the above has answered your questions on how to become a truck driver but if not, please leave a comment and we will do our best to answer any additional queries you may have.