The trucking industry continues to grow and truck driving can be a rewarding career option. If you are considering earning your commercial driver’s license (CDL) and working as a driver, you may be wondering about certain aspects of the job.
Here are some answers to the most common questions:
Trucking Pay
How much can truck drivers make?
According to 2018 data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top 10% of heavy and tractor-trailer haulers earned more than $65,260 per year. The median annual wage for drivers is $43,680. Pay can vary depending on the type of freight, miles driven, and experience.
How do truckers get paid?
Most long-haul transportation jobs pay by the mile. The pay per mile depends on what type of freight you haul. Freight that requires more expertise or a CDL endorsement will typically pay more. Some drivers do get paid hourly, but this is usually for local or regional jobs rather than over-the-road.
Is trucking a good career?
Whether or not this career is right for you depends on your personal goals and preferences. Many people consider truck driving a good career because of the high pay and the variety of opportunities in the field.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
Do I need a commercial driver’s license?
You need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to drive most types of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). To drive a vehicle weighing 26,001 pounds or more with a towing capacity of over 10,000 pounds, you need a Class A CDL. To drive a vehicle weighing 26,001 or more pounds with a towing capacity of fewer than 10,000 pounds, you need a Class B CDL.
What are the requirements for a CDL?
Federal regulations require you to be over 21 years of age to earn a Class A CDL. You will need to pass a background check and cannot have a license suspension in any state. In order to earn your license, you will also need to pass a CDL test. Additional requirements apply in certain states.
How do you get a commercial driver’s license?
In order to get your commercial driver’s license, you will need to study for and pass a written CDL test to earn your commercial learner’s permit. Then, you must practice driving a commercial vehicle in order to pass your skills test. This can be done on your own or by attending a CDL School.
Truck Driving School
What is CDL school?
At a CDL school, you will complete a mix of classroom learning and hands-on training that will prepare you for a career as a truck driver. These programs teach you valuable skills and can help you pass your CDL test.
Can I get a CDL without going to school?
It is possible to pass your written and skills tests and earn a CDL without attending truck driving school. However, it can be difficult to find a job with a trucking company if you did not attend a CDL training program where you had real-life experience driving a tractor-trailer.
Do You Have Questions About Trucking?
If you have questions about truck driving or want to earn your CDL, Phoenix Truck Driving School can help.
