Want a Career in the Trucking Industry? Here are 3 Simple Steps to Help You Get Started

Trucks move about 70% of the nation’s freight by weight, making them an integral component of the domestic transportation network. That being said, truck driving jobs can be a promising option for anybody willing to put in the work and learn the safety regulations. Before you can attend truck driving school, it’s important to understand how the process works. Here are just a few steps you’ll have to take before receiving eligibility for local truck driving jobs.

Receive High School Diploma/GED

While this isn’t necessary in all cases, it’s a major stepping stone that helps you be seen favorably in the eyes of many truck driving companies. Most companies do require it, and all of them most definitely prefer candidates with a high school diploma.

Avoid Traffic Tickets/Violations

It’s one thing to get a parking ticket, but getting multiple speeding tickets or a reckless driving charge could land you in hot water and be a major setback. In 2013, truckers transported nearly 15 billion tons of cargo. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that by 2040, that number is expected to increase to 18.79 billion tons. With that in mind, truck companies need to be sure that they can trust each and every one of their drivers with transportation of valuable cargo. This means that you may be disqualified from employment at most trucking companies if you have multiple moving violations, so drive carefully while pursuing your CDL.

Take CDL Classes

Finally, you’ll have to take CDL classes and pass a truck driver test in order to become certified and officially eligible for truck driving jobs. You’ll learn defensive driving techniques, state specific laws, and more. Once you take the right classes and pass the right tests, you can get a truck driving job whenever you’re ready. Keep in mind that while you’ll only have to pass the written exam once, you’ll have to pass the physical every two years.

Ultimately, there were 3.5 million truck drivers employed in the U.S. in 2015, and if you want to become one of them, pursuing a promising career in the truck driving industry just takes some effort and dedication.