The path to becoming a truck driver is relatively free of impediments. Obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and completing a program at an accredited trucking school are the most common ways to achieve this goal. After that, he or she might look for a driving job, such as driving a small van or truck, to gain some relevant experience.
Researching the basics of the trucking industry, either on the Internet or at a local trucking company, is a good first step for someone interested in trucking. After that, he or she should make a list of all the potential benefits and drawbacks of working for a trucking company. This will enable the aspiring truck driver to discover his or her passion within the industry, allowing him or her to better streamline their career path.
If the individual does not wish to attend trucking school, he or she may seek employment driving small trucks or vans. Once he or she has gained some driving experience with these vehicles, it is suggested that he or she progress to bigger and bigger trucks. According to trucking industry experts, a person will have acquired the necessary driving experience to seek out over-the-road driving jobs in a year.
The quickest way into the trucking industry is to attend a truck driving school. The courses can usually be completed in three to four weeks. Some accredited truck driving schools provide online courses that can be completed before attending in-person classes. If a person cannot afford school tuition, they should inquire with freight companies to see if they have their own driving program or if they will pay or reimburse the trucker for schooling expenses.
It is critical for aspiring truck drivers to ensure that the school they attend is accredited. This indicates that a regional or state accrediting agency has reviewed the school. This agency will then determine whether or not the truck driving school in question has demonstrated that it meets the agency’s training, school administration, financial strength, and staff quality standards.
It may seem self-evident, but newcomers to the trucking industry should ensure that they have and maintain a clean driving record. Some shipping companies and freight movers may refuse to hire a driver with a traffic violation on his or her record. It’s also worth noting that a drunk driving conviction will almost certainly disqualify a driver.