So you’re thinking of becoming a truck driver here in the southwestern USA?
We’re glad to hear you’re interested.
It’s a fulfilling, exciting job which can be lucrative. But it’s also much more involved than it can appear.
There are weeks of training and rigorous testing before a driver is ready for the haul. Even after that, the long hours of solitude, and difficult traffic situations, can be more than some people bargained for. If you’re up for it, though, truck driving can be a lifelong, rewarding career.
Here’s what it takes to become a truck driver.
BE IN IT FOR THE RIGHT REASONS
Before you become a truck driver, make sure you’re in it for reasons that you’ll find fulfilling. Many would-be drivers are tempted by the promise of great money. While yes, the salary is good, earning it takes a lot of hard work.
Truck drivers face long hours on the road (or days, if you’re regional), and working alone for several hours at a time The work itself? It involves handling and maneuvering a massive truck and trailer, reefer unit or flatbed no matter the traffic or weather conditions. There are deadlines to be met. All while handling some of the most difficult roads in the USA . Trucking is not for the faint of heart.
If after reading all this, you still want to become a driver, then here’s what you need to do next.
TRAINING
So you’re ready to become a truck driver, and accept the job warts and all? You’re going to need the right training and education before you’re ready for the road.
An important note: qualifications for truck drivers can vary from state to state. Since we’re headquartered in Nevada, we’ll focus on Nevada qualifications. If you live elsewhere, be sure to check the requirements of your state first.
To start, you must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Class A Commercial Driver’s License, or CDL. This will permit you to drive a commercial vehicle within the state of Nevada. However, you won’t be able to drive a commercial vehicle across state lines, or haul hazardous materials, until you’re 21.
You’ll need your Commercial Learner Permit, or CLP, in order to begin training to be a truck driver in Nevada. You’ll also need to get a CLP if your CDL has been invalid for more than four years, or you’re adding an endorsement.
The CLP requires you to pass a written test, a vision exam, and several practical skills tests. Finally, you’ll need to provide a Medical Examiner’s Certificate as proof of good health. CLPs are valid for 180 days, and are a requirement for practical training from an approved training provider (the FMCSA maintains a training provider registry to help you find one). Nevada requires all entry-level truck drivers to complete training before attempting the CDL test.
Training typically lasts around 160 hours, or two months. For most training schools, drivers spend 80 hours in class, then 80 hours of on road driving with a qualified trainer. If you’ve chosen a path which requires more endorsements and training (such as air brakes, tank, or mountain hauling), your training could be longer. Your school may also recommend remedial training in certain areas, as well. Once you’re ready, you can schedule your CDL test!
TESTING
Your CDL test consists of two parts: a written knowledge exam, and a practical skills exam.
The written CDL exam will cover 50 multiple-choice questions related to Class-A CDL driving, such as safety protocols, steps involved in a circle check, and how various weather conditions impact your drive. You’ll need 80% to pass, so make sure to study hard.
The skills test is the driving test, and here’s where you’ll really shine. You’ll head out on the road to show off your skills, while an examiner checks you for proficiency, following road rules, and safety. Make sure you’ve reviewed rules of the road, perform your circle check before you head out, and you should pass with flying colors.
YOU’RE READY!
You’re ready to start your truck driving career! While many fleets do require experience (yes, Truline is one of them, due to our regional hauls), there are plenty who are willing to take on rookie drivers. Once you’ve got the experience you need, you’ll have plenty of driving options at your fingertips.
Becoming a truck driver takes more time and effort than people realize. The job itself is much more complicated than it first seems, too. If all of that just makes the job sound better to you, though, then you have the makings of a great career truck driver. Before you start training, though, take a look at our current opportunities to see what your future on the Truline team could be like. Talk soon!
