A truck driving career is both rewarding and challenging. A truck driver is a professional career choice and there are some requirements. There are a few qualifications you must meet before you apply for your truck driver application.
Commercial Driver’s License
You must have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) from the state in which you reside. Each state’s requirements for a CDL are a little different. You must ensure that you understand the requirements for your specific state before attempting to obtain a CDL. Regardless of the state, you will have to take and pass a written test, pass a road skills test and maintain a learner’s permit for a specified amount of time.
Education
Before obtaining your CDL and filling out a truck driver application, you may have to attend a school specifically for truck driving. You must have a GED or a diploma to be able to enter truck driving school. Most truck driving companies require that you have a GED or diploma before they will hire you. The cost of truck driving school varies depending on the type of CDL you wish to obtain. The length of time you spend in truck driving school depends on the type of CDL you choose. Many of these programs are on a full-time basis. The shortest amount of time you will spend in driving school is about seven weeks at eight hours a day for five days a week. Many driving schools work with financial organizations to offer loans to help pay for driving school. Driving schools require students to have a good driving record that does not have tickets or accidents. You must also have good work history leading up to applying for a truck driving program.
Study for the Road Skills Test
Your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) should have a manual about a commercial driver’s license to give you the information about your state’s regulations. Once you have the manual, you should study it before you take your written and road skills tests.
Other Requirements
The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires those who fill out a truck driver application to be at least 21 years of age. Potential drivers must also pass a drug and alcohol test. They must also undergo a physical given to them by an approved doctor. If you wish to have a hazardous material endorsement, you will need to pass a background check by Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Once you have taken all these steps, you are well on the way to becoming a professional truck driver. You will find that the decision to pursue a career in truck driving will be very rewarding.
