There are a lot of great reasons to become a truck driver. For starters, it can be a very financially rewarding career. It also gives you the freedom to explore America while you're working. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the other benefits of becoming a truck driver and dispel some of the myths that often keep people from pursuing this career!
There Is A Huge Demand For Truck Drivers Right Now
Due to the pandemic, many drivers retired ... even as demand increased. While folks were stuck at home, there was an increase in ecommerce related activity and that means more packages going to more people. That means more money.
In fact, the average annual pay for an Owner Operator Truck Driver as of March 23, 2022 is $199,616! That works out to $95.97 or the equivalent of $16,635.
While company drivers make less, they can still easily make more than $100,000.
Considering many folks that don't know better might mock truck drivers as being rednecks or psychopaths, look who's laughing now.
Being A Truck Driver Is Hard Work - But Rewarding
One of the biggest misconceptions about truck driving is that it's easy. The truth is, it's hard work - but it's also very rewarding. When you're behind the wheel of a big rig, you're in control of your own destiny. You decide when and where to go, and you can make a lot of money while doing it!
There are many different types of routes you can take as a truck driver, so you can always find something that interests you. Whether you want to see the country or do local deliveries, truck driving is a great career choice!
Additionally, it offers you the opportunity to work as much or as little as you want. Imagine how nice it would be to be able to take charge of your own destiny and decide what you want to do an where you want to go. That opportunity is available to you as a professional truck driver.
Skills And Talents Needed To Be A Good Truck Driver
In order to be a successful truck driver, you need to be able to think on your feet and make quick decisions. You also need to be able to work independently and be self-sufficient.
While strength and agility is also important so that you can lift heavy objects, tie down your load, or pull open a stubborn door ... stamina is much more important.
You'll also need to be able to stay alert for hours, even though you are probably traveling alone.
Training Needed To Become A Truck Driver
If you're interested in becoming a truck driver, there are many different schools that offer training. You can find a list of approved schools by visiting the website for the Commercial Vehicle Training Association (CVTA).
Once you have proper training, including both classroom experience and time on the road with an instructor, it's time to get certified. To become a truck driver, you will need to get your CDL license (Commercial Driver's License). This license allows you to drive commercial trucks on highways. There are several different classes of CDL but Class A CDL is the important one for most folks. This will allow the driver to operate a variety of vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight of 26,001 or more ponds with a trailer heavier than 10,000 pounds. This includes "Tractor-Trailer" trucks pulling flatbeds, livestock carriers, and tankers.
There are also Class B CDL (attached cab and cargo trucks) and Class C CDL, which allows for operation of commercial trucks less than 26,001 pounds.
To obtain your CDL, you will need to complete a CDL training program and pass a written test and driving test. You can find CDL training programs at community colleges, private vocational schools, or trucking companies. There are also many online resources.
How Long Does It Take To Get Your CDL And Become A Truck Driver?
Ultimately the time it takes to become a truck driver is up to the individual's time to learn and practice as well as how good the training program is.
For guys looking to go "all in" and commit to a full-time truck driver training program, the process will take about seven weeks from the date of your first class. This includes the time spent in the classroom as well as time spent on the road as a student driver.
Some factors that may impact the length of time to get your CDL include various state protocols regarding scheduling the test, type of truck you are looking to be certified on and your existing familiarity with one, and any specific endorsements that you are needing to be certified for such as carrying hazardous materials or passenger transport.
Many trucking companies can help aspiring drivers get started as well and some may even offer new truck drivers a job - pending the successful completion of the truck driver training classes and acquisition of a CDL.
If You Are Looking For Money And Freedom, Trucking Can Be A Great Career
There's a reason why truck driving is one of the most popular jobs in America. It offers great pay, freedom, and the opportunity to explore this beautiful country. If you're looking for a career that will provide you with all of those things, then becoming a truck driver may be the right choice for you.
