How to Obtain a Truck Driving Job

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Ready to begin a new and exciting career behind-the-wheel? Learn what you need to do to obtain a good, well-paying truck driving job.

Things You Will Need

Whether you want to work as a short-haul company driver or an independent contractor driving all over the country, here's how to become a professional truck driver.

Step 1

Complete high school or obtain your GED. While it is not a formal requirement to become a truck driver, most trucking companies prefer to hire high school graduates.

Step 2

Maintain a clean driving record. Several moving violations and or any DUI (driving under the influence) or DWI (driving while intoxicated) convictions can immediately disqualify you from a career as a truck driver.

Step 3

Obtain your CDL (commercial driver's license). A CDL allows you to drive commercial trucks that weigh over 26,000 pounds or trucks of any size that haul hazardous materials (this requires a special HazMat permit in addition to a CDL). In order to obtain a CDL, you must pass the CDL exam which consists of a written and driving test to asses your ability to operate a commercial truck.

Step 4

You must also pass the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) exam, administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation. This exam also involves a written portion in addition to a physical exam (including vision and hearing screenings) to ensure you are physically able to operate a commercial truck in a safe matter.

Step 5

Consider attending truck driving school. Although it is not required in order to take the CDL exam, a truck driving school or training program can provide the comprehensive training needed to successfully pass the CDL exam. It can also better prepare you for a career as a professional truck driver.

Step 6

In order to maintain truck driving jobs, truckers must pass the FMCSR exam every two years to ensure they are still physically capable of safely operating a commercial big rig.

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