%%Truck Driver Training%% | Truckers Logic

If you’re looking to start a truck driver career, you’ve come to the right website. Our sponsors are hiring truck drivers right now! Be sure to visit our on-site sponsors today. There are many careers people can pursue without a degree, and one of the best options is becoming a truck driver. Driving a semi-truck over the road (OTR), regionally or locally, can be a rewarding career both financially and in terms of travel opportunities. The demand for truck drivers is growing, and there are several pathways to get started. This overview will outline those options and what to expect when beginning your career.

Getting Your CDL

There are two main ways to start your truck driving career: through a company-sponsored CDL training program or a private CDL school. Both options are similar in process and relatively short in duration, allowing you to start driving and earning income sooner than many other careers.

Many trucking companies are willing to hire new drivers, primarily to drive over the road. Over-the-road (OTR) driving involves traveling across the country for weeks at a time, with a few days off every few weeks. New drivers often start with OTR routes, and by attending a company-sponsored CDL training school, they typically commit to driving for that company for less than a year. In exchange for free training, the driver agrees to a repayment plan where tuition costs are deducted from paychecks over the year.

Private CDL Schools

Alternatively, you can attend a private CDL school, which costs about $4,000 for a month-long course. After graduating from an accredited CDL program, you\’ll have multiple job options. However, most trucking companies still prefer new drivers to start with OTR routes, which involves completing paid training with a company trainer before operating your own truck.

Attending a private school is a good option for individuals with limited funds or poor credit, as it provides more personalized training and a broader range of job options. Both methods typically cost around $4,000 and take 3-6 weeks. After graduation, new drivers usually complete a paid training period, riding along with a trainer for one to three months.

Companies Offering CDL Training

Large national companies such as Swift, Stevenson Transport, C.R. England, Central Refrigeration, Prime, and Knight Transportation often offer CDL training programs. Starting a trucking career generally requires driving OTR for a few years before transitioning to local or regional routes that allow more time at home.

Truck Driver Earnings

Entry-level truck drivers typically earn about $30,000 per year gross, with regular raises and incentives. With experience, earnings can increase to around $50,000 annually, and with further specialization and experience, drivers can make up to $100,000 gross per year. Benefits such as health insurance and other incentives are often available depending on the employer. The high demand for truck drivers and their essential role in the economy make this a promising career choice.

The ease and affordability of starting this career make it appealing for individuals seeking to support themselves and their families.

[…] Long road trips can be monotonous, especially hours on end without a good radio station. However, driving professionally can be far from boring and can sometimes be stressful. The key differences between recreational driving and professional trucking include […].

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