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hazmat truck

Transporting hazardous materials is one of the riskiest, yet most highly rewarding jobs a trucker can find.  

 

Requiring specialized training, strict guidelines, and unwavering attention to detail, the transportation of hazardous material is not for the faint of heart. However, for many truckers, the risk is worth the reward with high pay and a constant supply of work.  

 

But do the benefits outweigh the danger involved? Keep reading to find out the challenges, advantages, and expectations of hazmat trucking and decide for yourself.  

 

Understanding Hazmat Trucking 

Hazardous materials, also called hazmat, refer to substances or materials that pose a potentially serious risk to health, safety, and the environment when transported. Hazmat truckers take on the critical responsibility of delivering these materials to new locations while following strict DOT guidelines and protocol.  

 

Hazmat drivers must have a commercial driver’s license with a hazardous materials endorsement called a Code H. To receive this endorsement, drivers must pass a hazmat knowledge test as well as a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check.  

 

Drivers also must go through specialized training courses on handling, loading/unloading, and transporting hazardous materials, as well as emergency procedures and safety precautions.  

 

These courses teach drivers the importance of proper labeling, placarding, and packaging of hazardous materials, and how to follow all DOT guidelines. Some employers offer these courses, but oftentimes drivers must complete extensive training on their own before applying for hazmat transportation jobs.  

 

What do Hazmat Truckers do? 

Before every run, drivers must conduct a thorough pre-trip inspection. This involves checking for leaks, tears, and loose containers, and ensuring that all freight is properly and safely secured. Hazmat truckers also must plan out routes that avoid heavily populated areas and tunnels, since some prohibit hazmat trucks from passing through.  

 

Hazmat drivers should also remember to wear personal protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and respiratory masks, when handling hazardous materials. This gear is essential in case of an accident, and important to minimize risk for drivers who face long term exposure to radioactive material and toxic substances.  

 

Are There Ever Accidents? 

What most prospective hazmat drivers want to know is if accidents ever occur, and how dangerous they really are.  

 

Unfortunately, a recent CBS News study found that accidents involving hazardous materials in transportation on the road have more than doubled in the past decade, sometimes with severe consequences.  

 

Over the last 10 years, there have been 52 fatalities and 160 injuries caused by incidents involving hazmat transportation by tractor trailers in the US. The study also revealed that nearly 1 in 5 accidents were caused by some form of human error.  

 

However, countless drivers avoid potentially devastating disasters by following hazmat transportation protocols and general safe driving practices every day. Modern safety technology, such as lane keeping assistance and automatic emergency brake systems, also can greatly affect the safety of drivers and bystanders.  

 

In the case of an accident, hazmat drivers can minimize risks by using their training on emergency response protocol and containment procedures until hazmat cleanup crews arrive. This involves isolating the spill and preventing it from spreading, if possible, while promptly alerting the proper authorities.  

 

Pros & Cons of Hazmat Trucking 

Before deciding on a career transporting hazardous materials, it is vital to consider both the advantages and challenges of such an important job.  

 

Benefits: 

  • Job demand. Hazmat transporters are always in demand due to the essential nature of their work. Industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and construction rely on timely and safe transportation of hazardous materials. The need for hazmat transporters continues to remain consistent, providing job stability even during economic fluctuations. 
  • Higher compensation. Hazmat drivers often receive higher pay compared to non-hazmat drivers due to the specialized nature of their work and the inherent risks involved.  
  • Training and experience. The experience gained transporting hazmat can be translated to many other trucking jobs and will stand out to potential employers. With the added CDL endorsements and specialized training, employers will see a committed and seasoned driver.  

 

Drawbacks: 

  • Safety Risks: Hazmat transport involves inherent risks, including exposure to toxic substances, fire, explosions, and chemical spills. 
  • Stringent Regulations: Compliance with federal, state, and international regulations is crucial. Violations can result in fines, penalties, or even criminal charges. 
  • Physical Demands: Hazmat drivers handle heavy loads, wear protective gear, and must help in the loading and unloading of hazardous materials. The responsibility of safely transporting hazmat can also be mentally and emotionally taxing. 

 

Transporting hazardous materials is a well-rewarded trucking job that is critical to many industries and lives. However, it also comes with a high level of responsibility and risk. For drivers willing to make this tradeoff, it can be a lucrative and satisfying path to follow.  

 

For more information on trucking jobs and industry trends, be sure to check more of our Driver Blog posts and follow us on social media 

 

Garbage Truck Driver: A Guide to Responsibilities, Qualifications, and Job Opportunities

Although it might not be viewed as the most glamorous CDL job, local waste and recycling collectors play a vital role in the health and well-being of our communities. 

 

They also receive decent pay, benefits, and an ideal work/life balance—perfect for any trucker who wants to stay close to home while gaining experience in operating heavy machinery and navigating detailed routes via GPS. 

 

Are you considering becoming a local waste collector? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know, including required skills, experience level, and the day-to-day routine.  

 

A Day in the Life 

Local waste collectors, also known as garbage truck or dump truck drivers, follow a distinct work routine compared to most other truckers. This specialized schedule is ideal for CDL drivers who want to stay near their homes while enjoying flexibility and ample free time. 

 

Many waste collectors start their day between 5 and 6 in the morning to take advantage of the cooler hours and avoid heavy traffic. This might seem like an early start, but remember that also means an earlier end to the day, since the bulk of the daily labor is done before afternoon.  

 

Each shift will start with route familiarization, using GPS technology to review the assigned route and optimize the path between the locations of residential and commercial areas where waste needs to be collected. Drivers must also keep in contact with dispatch by radio throughout the day to keep up with pick-up schedules and any route changes.  

 

Although there are different types of garbage trucks depending on the experience of the driver and the specialized equipment necessary for the job, most feature a hydraulic lift and compactor. Drivers must have the required training and experience to operate such machinery, and it’s important to conduct a safety inspection each day before the first stop of the route.  

 

There are also two different options for waste collection drivers, residential or commercial. Commercial waste collection drivers typically service businesses, industrial areas, and large-scale facilities, managing the disposal needs of higher volume waste generated by these organizations. These drivers often operate larger vehicles and navigate more complex logistical challenges. On the other hand, residential waste collection drivers focus on picking up household waste within neighborhoods. Their routes involve frequent stops, demanding a different set of skills to efficiently manage varied waste types from individual households. 

 

All drivers, however, must be prepared to pick up a wide variety of waste, including recycling, yard waste, and sometimes bulk items such as furniture. The day ends with hauling and disposal, whether to a landfill, recycling center, or other transfer station, where drivers follow strict waste collection safety standards and procedures to ensure efficient and responsible waste management. 

 

Education and Experience Requirements  

Like any CDL driving opportunity, it helps to have some experience behind the wheel as well as a clean Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) to start out as a garbage truck driver. Some waste management companies look for up to 3 years of prior driving experience, and many require that applicants be of 21 years or older.  

 

In most cases, a high school diploma or GED are sufficient for educational background, as well as a Class A or B CDL, depending on the type of truck you will be operating. Most waste collecting trucks, such as front load, rear load, and roll-off dumpster require a Class B CDL, while long-haul transfer trailers require a Class A.  

 

It’s important to be in good health to operate any waste collection vehicle, including having good hearing, vision, and the ability to lift heavy weights and operate large machinery.  

 

Driving a garbage truck also presents distinct challenges. Unlike typical 18-wheelers, dump trucks usually have fewer rear axles equipped with brakes, impacting their stopping ability. Additionally, these trucks frequently transport loads with a higher center of gravity, making them more prone to tipping over. When operating off-road, drivers must navigate hilly, soft dirt roads while seeking stable ground for dumping. 

 

However, it’s important to consider that most employers offer on-the-job training, including educational courses and behind-the-wheel practice.  You’ll learn important topics regarding safety, vehicle maintenance, and governing rules and regulations, while gaining confidence in operating important transportation technology.  

 

Finding Job Availabilities  

Another reason that many drivers decide to become a local waste collector is because overall job growth in the field has remained strong due to worker shortages and the highly essential nature of the career.  

 

When searching for a position, consider directly checking with local government agencies, such as city or county waste management departments, as well as private waste management companies. Job postings can be available in many sites, including online job boards, truck carriers, and even waste collection depots and landfills.  

 

 

For many drivers, the most appealing part of a trucking career is that there is a wide variety of opportunities depending on your experience level, availability, and needs. Waste collection is a great option for any driver looking for a dependable and local position that is sure to remain in high demand.  

 

For more information on finding and applying to other job opportunities for CDL drivers, be sure to check out our social media and stay up-to-date on our Truck Driver Blog!   

 

moving violations
Moving violations are the gift that keeps on giving. Of course, safe driving practices are the best solution, but violations happen. If you have violations on your motor vehicle record (MVR) or Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP), there are steps you should take before your next job interview. Don’t get caught by surprise by a violation you didn’t know was on your record. Here’s what you need to know to keep your record in top shape. 

What is a Moving Violation?

A moving violation is quite simply a violation that occurs while the vehicle is in use. This most often means when the vehicle is actually in motion, but there are some moving violations that can occur with a stopped vehicle as well. 

MVR vs. PSP

When you are preparing for a CDL job change, it’s a good idea to check both your MVR and your PSP. They are not the same thing, and employers are likely to check both before moving forward with an in-person or virtual interview. Here are the basic differences:

Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP)
Includes violation from a specific state Comes from a federal database and includes FMCSA violations
Only includes violation convictions. Length of history displayed varies by state Has ALL safety violations cited to a driver with 5 years of crash history and 3 years of roadside inspection history
Citations, warnings, and unsettled tickets will NOT appear Citations may appear even if there was no ticket given
Only contains data from the driver’s CDL issued in that particular state Includes data from any CDL numbers a driver has held in the past 5 years, regardless of the state

There are some violations, such as a speeding ticket, that can appear on both an MVR and a PSP. In that situation, the violation is only counted once. Drivers are not double penalized. Both MVRs and PSPs use a point system to indicate a driver’s safety levels. Every violation is assigned a point value and may be weighted by how recently the violation occurred. Then, the point total gives an overall indicator of a driver’s safety record. For an MVR, the specific point values vary by state. PSPs are federally regulated. The bottom line? Low scores are better.

What Counts as a Violation

personal vehicle stopped by police

There is a wide range of things that can be safety violations. Everything from speeding tickets to CSA violations can show up on your record. Some offenses (like speeding 5 mph over the limit) will typically result in only a few points, while others (like an expired inspection sticker) can add quite a few points to your record. There are a few moving violations that can land you an automatic license suspension from the FMCSA. Excessive speeding, leaving the scene of an accident, Drunk Driving and Driving While Impaired (DWI), and criminal conduct are all serious violations that may disqualify you as a professional driver. 

One of the most important things to realize is that your MVR is not only impacted by your time operating a commercial vehicle. Any violations that you get while driving your personal vehicle will also show up on your professional record. 

If you see an incorrect citation on your MVR or PSP, you are able to contest it. For an MVR, a good place to start is with your employer. If you believe there is a mistake, they may be able to help correct your record. For a PSP change, use the FMCSA’s website to request a review of a specific citation. You can also ask your employer to advocate on your behalf. They also want their drivers to have clean records to keep CSA scores and insurance costs low.

Who Will See My Driving Record?

hiring manager review applicantsFuture employers are the most likely people to check your driving record. Any time you apply for a new job, you can put money on the fact that they’re checking your MVR and PSP. If you have too many violations on file, a company with a high CSA score might consider you too risky to bring on because they can’t afford more incidents. At the same time, a company with really low CSA scores might also say no because they want to keep their scores as strong as possible. 

As a driver, YOU can also check your MVR and PSP. And you should. Don’t get blindsided by an unexpected citation when you thought you had a clean record. It’s usually quick and cheap to get an MVR from your local DMV. You can get a copy of your PSP for $10 online. Looking at a copy of your MVR and PSP is the only way to be completely confident in what your future employer will see. It’s well worth your time.

If you do have violations on your MVR and PSP, don’t assume you are out of the running for a new job. Drive My Way Account Executive and former Hiring Manager, Kilie Erickson shared her perspective:

Kilie Erickson“If you have, for example, one preventable accident, it’s really about the driver’s response when being asked about it. Drivers that tend to have an excuse for everything are the ones that are really going to have a harder time getting in. It’s about taking responsibility for something that happened and demonstrating corrective action.”

If you made a mistake, take responsibility. The best drivers also share how they have changed their driving habits to make sure it doesn’t happen again. A good driver isn’t perfect, but they are safety-minded and focused on improvement.

truck driver at loading dock

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Does Your Truck Driver Resume Stand Out?

Will your truck driver resume land you with your dream company? Does your resume stand out to hiring managers? Whether you have extensive driving experience or are brand new to the industry, having an updated resume will help you control your career. We put together a sample resume and tips below to help you get started.

John Smith

Experienced CDL A Driver with over 16 years of experience and Hazmat and Tanker endorsements. Excellent driving record, time management, and customer service skills. Seeking a local position with a growing company.

Work Experience

Trucking Company

CDL A Local Fuel Truck Driver  |  July 2015-Present

Cleveland, OH

  • Duties completed
  • Achievements

Trucking Company

CDL A Regional Fuel Truck Driver  |  July 2010-June 2015

Akron, OH

  • Duties completed
  • Achievements

Trucking Company

CDL A OTR Dry Van Truck Driver  |  May 2005-June 2010

Erie, PA

  • Duties completed
  • Achievements

Contact

  • 333-444-5566
  • driver@trucking.com
  • Cleveland, OH

Licenses

Class A CDL License

HAZMAT Endorsement

Tanker Endorsement

Education

High School or University

Erie, PA |  2001-2005

Skills

  • Safety
  • Problem Solving
  • Time Management
  • Accountability
  • Integrity

Awards

2019: Driver of the Year

2017: 1,000,000 Safe Miles

Following the truck driver resume format above keeps you organized, helps you highlight the right information, and makes sure you stand out. Let’s talk through each of the sections.

Summary

This section is important. Write a brief summary about what makes you unique and why you’re looking for a new opportunity. Do you have extensive experience or endorsements? Or do you have customer service skills from a past position or an excellent driving record? Including these in your summary section will catch a hiring manager’s eyes.

Work Experience

Include your current and past roles that are relevant to the position you’re applying for. Remember, it’s important to not only share your duties and responsibilities in your role, but also your key achievements while in the position.

Duties and Responsibilities

Example bullets describing your duties and responsibilities include:

  • Ensured on-time deliveries from terminal to customers nationwide
  • Maintained log of deliveries, billing statements,
  • Use equipment to lift heavy cargo for transport and delivery
  • Followed DOT and Trucking Company safety and driving protocols

Pro Tip: Include specific duties and responsibilities that are also expected of you in the role you’re applying for.

Key Achievements

In addition, example bullets describing your key achievements include:

  • Worked with manager to develop more efficient delivery routes, saving Trucking Company over $10,000 annually and over 3,000 hours on the road
  • Earned over 200 positive customer scores from developing excellent relationships with customers
  • Worked with safety manager to create a pre and post-trip inspection checklist, implemented across entire fleet of 300 drivers
  • Delivered 1,000 loads annually ahead of the schedule provided

Pro Tip: Include metrics in this section to quantify your achievements.

However, if you are a new truck driver and don’t have much relevant work experience yet, that’s okay. Make sure you highlight past positions that showcase your skills applicable to the driving job you’re applying for. Remember, landing your first trucking job isn’t impossible with a good resume.

Contact Information

Make sure the phone number and email address in this section are your primary ways of communication. You wouldn’t want to miss a call or email about a job opportunity! Another tip is to make sure the email address provided is professional. For example, using an email like Bigsexytrucker@gmail.com might not create the best first impression with the hiring manager.

Licenses & Education

Include your licenses, endorsements, and education in this section. If your endorsements have an expiration, including the valid-through dates is helpful for the hiring manager.

delivery driver

Skills

Feature your relevant skills in this section to help you land your next job. Have you developed good time management, problem solving, or teamwork skills throughout your career? Does the job you’re applying for require specific skills such as technology or customer service? Customize this section to make sure you’re including the skills the hiring manager is seeking.

Awards

If you earned awards throughout your career, showcase them in this section! Were you nominated by your boss or peers as “Truck Driver of the Month/Quarter/Year”? Have you driven 1,000,000 safe miles? Or have you been selected as a driver lead or trainer? Showcase these achievements in this section to stand out amongst other applicants.

Finally, after you create your resume and are ready to submit it, be sure to review it first. Sharing the document with a trusted friend or peer to have a second set of eyes review it is always helpful. Make sure any misspellings or typos are cleaned up before you submit it to open positions. Overall, applying the tips above will help you take your truck driver resume to the next level. Also, be sure to always keep your resume updated so you can quickly apply to any new opportunities!

truck driver at loading dock

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Clear Harbors driverToday’s job of the day comes from Clean Harbors Environmental Services

As a Clean Harbors driver, you will be responsible for the safe transport of hazardous waste from a generator/facility to one of our facilities, adhering to DOT and hazardous waste regulations. At Clean Harbors we are passionate about providing premier environmental, energy, and industrial services.

clean harbors logo

When you work with the Clean Harbors team, you will perform work that truly makes a difference – not only in people’s lives but also in protecting the planet.  Safety is our No. 1 priority. As a driver, you’ll get the training and support to do your job and return home safely. Change your life for the better.  Apply today.

We are hiring for the following positions:

Why work for Clean Harbors?

  • Work for Top Environmental Safety Company
  • Great company culture
  • Company Drivers: Great pay and overtime after 40 hours
  • Company Drivers: Health and dental care
  • Owner Operators: Good base pay with additional pay opportunities
  • Paid orientation or training
  • Consistent freight
  • Sign-on and referral bonuses for all positions

clean harbors tanker

Interested in applying?

Learn more about the job requirements, benefits, pay and more.

Learn More & Apply

US Cargo TruckingToday’s job of the day comes from US Cargo Trucking

US Cargo Trucking is hiring CDL A Dry Van Regional and OTR Drivers and Conestoga Flatbed Drivers in various locations.

US Cargo TruckingUS Cargo Trucking, LLC is seeking 1099 Company Drivers to haul freight to customers in various locations. Drivers will be pulling 53 foot dry-van trailers or Conestoga flatbed trailers with no touch freight primarily on out and back lanes and will be home regularly!

CDL A Dry Van Driver

  • OTR Locations:  Northeast | Southeast | Midwest
  • Regional Locations: Northeast | Southeast | Midwest
  • Average gross weekly pay: $1,500
  • Base up to $ .55 CPM practical miles with an average of 3,000 – 3,300 miles weekly
  • Drivers are paid based on years of experience and safety record
    • 2+ years experience with a good record – $.55 CPM
    • <6 months experience – $300 per week for 3 weeks of training, followed by $.45 CPM
    • 6 months – 2 years experience with a good record – $.50 – $.52 CPM
  • Additional Pay: Layover pay ($100 per day), Extra Stop Pay
  • All miles paid, loaded and unloaded

CDL A Conestoga Flatbed Driver

  • Hiring Nationwide
  • Average gross weekly pay: $1,700
  • Paid via direct deposit weekly
  • Base up to $ .55 CPM practical miles with an average of 3,000 – 3,300 miles weekly
  • Drivers are paid based on years of experience and safety record
    • 2+ years experience with a good record – $.55 CPM
      Additional $150 stop for each additional load after the first load in the same day
    • <6 months experience – $300 per week for 3 weeks of training, followed by $.45 CPM
    • 6 months – 2 years experience with a good record – $.50 – $.52 CPM
  • Additional Pay: Layover pay ($100 per day), Extra Stop Pay
  • All miles paid, loaded and unloaded

All Positions

  • Safety Bonus
    • Driver Referral Bonus – $300
    • Clean Inspection Bonus – $100 per inspection
    • No violations in 6 months – $300
    • No violations in 12 months – $1,000

Benefits & Perks

  • Paid training for drivers with less that 6 months experience
  • Cargo and Liability insurance coverage, driver deductible is $1,000
  • Take your truck home program

Home Time, Route, & Schedule

  • Home Time:
    • Home every weekend for Regional drivers
    • Home every 2-3 weeks for OTR drivers
  • No slip seating
  • Schedule: Monday – Friday schedule – no weekends!
  • Dispatch: 8 am  – 5 pm daily
  • Route: up 600-730 miles per day
  • Level of Touch: No Touch Freight; bumping docks only

Equipment

  • 2019 – 2020 Freightliner Cascadias and Volvos
  • Entire fleet has all automatic transmissions
  • Governed speed: 70 mph
  • No cameras

Experience & Qualifications

  • Must be at least 22 years of age
  • Must have CDL A license
  • Must have a minimum of 1 year verifiable tractor-trailer driving experience
  • No DUI/DWIs or reckless driving charges in last 3 years
  • Must meet Department of Transportation (DOT) testing and physical requirements and be knowledgeable of DOT regulations
  • Must be able to pass a required pre-employment drug screen and a new DOT physical
  • Hiring radius varies by location. See job postings for details.

US Cargo Trucking truck

Interested in applying?

Learn more about the job requirements, benefits, pay, and more.

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Ergon Trucking

Today’s job of the day comes from Ergon Trucking

Ergon Trucking is a company that works. We’re family owned and operated, brought together more than six decades ago in the petroleum industry’s service sectors. Driven by the values of hard work, customer service, reliable supply, and quality products, we’ve grown steadily and strategically over the years to become a well-diversified organization.

We specialize in the transport of products with rigorous handling requirements, sensitive temperature requirements, critical delivery timing, and crucial safety precautions. The company transports a diversity of products, including crude oil; lube oils; asphalt and emulsions; as well as specialty oils, caustics, and chemicals. Must have valid CDL with Tank and Hazmat endorsements to qualify.

We are a liquid tank carrier looking for OTR Hazmat/Tanker company drivers and independent contractors in multiple locations across the United States.

Company drivers are being hired in Houston, TX | Pittsburgh, PA | Baton Rouge, LA | Shreveport, LA | Marietta, OH | Sulphur, LA | Vicksburg, MS

Perks and Highlights:

  • 401(k) and profit sharing
  • Paid holiday & vacation time (two weeks after first year)
  • Health and dental care
  • Uniforms provided

We offer excellent pay and benefits that include:

  • 24% of load pay (75K – 90K annually)
  • Direct Deposit
  • $1,000 sign-on bonus
  • Safety bonus up to $2,000 per year
  • Home time – Out and back freight so we try to get you home weekly if possible but no guarantee depending on freight movement and time of year.
  • Late model Peterbilt and Kenworth with manual transmissions

Independent Contractors are being hired in Newell, WV | Vicksburg, MS | Shreveport, LA

Perks and Highlights:

  • 100% of fuel surcharge
  • Fuel discounts with various vendors
  • Free truck washes
  • Frequent home time, don’t require multiple weeks on the road
  • Electronic logging at no cost
  • Paid tolls and EZ Pass
  • Roadside assistance
  • Most loads are out and back with flexible schedules

We offer excellent pay and benefits that include:

  • $2,500 sign-on bonus
  • Up to $6,600 in Safety/Operations bonuses
  • Average 200-300k gross yearly
  • 65% of load pay
  • 85% of demurrage pay (paid weekly with loads)
  • Permits paid
  • Offer insurance options if needed

Interested in applying?

Learn more about the job requirements, benefits, pay and more.

Learn More & Apply

cdl requirements for trucking
If you are ready to make the change to trucking, there are several CDL requirements to keep in mind. There are different types of commercial driving licenses and regulations can vary based on state. Also, make sure you meet the basic requirements and do some research on driving schools. A little preparation beforehand will get you off to a good start in trucking!

1. Who needs a CDL?

People who operate large commercial vehicles need a commercial driving license (CDL). That includes truck drivers! There are three main types of CDL: A, B, and C. 

  • CDL A: For drivers who want to operate vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GVWR) of 26,000 pounds with a towed vehicle of more than 10,000 pounds. That includes tractor trailers. 
  • CDL B: For drivers who want to operate a vehicle with a GVWR of 26,000 pounds with a towed vehicle of less than 10,000 pounds. 
  • CDL C: For drivers who want to operate a commercial vehicle with a GVWR that is less than 26,000 pounds and transports hazardous materials or 16+ passengers.

Class A licenses are the most universal license type. Drivers with a CDL A are also qualified for CDL B and CDL C jobs. A CDL A is a bigger time and money investment than the other license types, but the payoff is well worth it for many drivers.

2. Basic Requirements

Before you get started in a CDL program, there are a few basic requirements. First, you must have a non-commercial driver’s license and some previous driving experience. Next, you must be at least 18 years of age to earn a CDL. To operate across state lines or carry hazardous materials, drivers must be at least 21 years old. In addition to age and license expectations, drivers have to meet physical and medical standards. Many states have specific rules, so make sure that you check the regulations for your state. As of February 7, 2022, entry-level driver training will also be one of the CDL requirements for drivers. 

3. Do I Need a Driving School?

If you are a new driver interested in getting your CDL, there is a lot of information to go through. One of the big questions is whether or not to get your license through a driving school. The short answer is: it’s your decision. That said, while it’s not technically required, most people do go through a driving school. That’s because driving schools offer a lot more than a CDL driving license. Driving schools also train you on specific skills such as key rules and regulations, maneuvering, and how to fill out a logbook to name a few. 

If you decide to get your CDL license through a driving school, there are a few more decisions to make. Choose whether you want to go through a school from a specific carrier or a general CDL driving school. No matter what you decide, do your research before making your final choice. This is a big financial and personal investment. Your CDL school should help prepare you for your license and often will help you find your first job. A little research at the start goes a long way!

4. Passing the CDL Test

One of the last CDL requirements before you can hit the road is to pass a written and practical test. Just like your non-commercial driving test, you will need to log hours with a learning permit before taking the written test. Then, drivers need an 80% pass rate to earn their license. The test has multiple choice questions and is often taken on a computer.

State CDL manuals and free online practice tests are great ways to prepare for your written CDL test.

It’s a good idea to study up beforehand. State CDL manuals are an excellent place to start. You can also take online practice tests to make sure you’re ready for the real thing. Typically, the written test is then followed by a skills test. You will need to demonstrate your ability to do a pre-trip inspection and properly maneuver a tractor trailer.

5. Should I Get Endorsements Right Away?

Many new CDL drivers start out hauling Dry Van or Reefer (refrigerated) loads. These types of loads often do not require any endorsements and are a good way to build experience. If you don’t have a specific job type in mind, start in a job that doesn’t require endorsements. 

On the other hand, if you know what you eventually want to haul and it requires an endorsement, you could get certified right away. There are 6 types of CDL A endorsements including Hazmat, Tanker, Passenger Vehicles, School Bus, Doubles/Triples, and Tanker/Hazmat. Each allows the driver to carry a specific type of specialty load. Figure out which endorsements you need for what you want to drive. Then decide when the best time is for you to get those endorsements.

Getting your commercial driving license opens a lot of exciting opportunities! Once you understand the CDL requirements, you are ready to get started in trucking.

truck driver at loading dock

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Today’s job of the day comes from Stevens Trucking

Founded in 1979, Stevens Trucking has been operating in Oklahoma and the contiguous 48 states for 40 years. We operate over 1,000 trailers and over 300 tractors between our oilfield-flatbed and dry freight divisions.

stevens truckingStevens Trucking is a family-owned and operated business. When he founded Stevens Trucking, Kenney Stevens, set out to provide rapid, reliable delivery service for the oilfield industry. As the business has grown, a family member has stepped up to take on each core aspect of the business.

Currently, Stevens Trucking is hiring CDL A drivers in the following locations:

OTR Dry Van Driver: MI, IL, MO, OH & OK & TX & TN & AL & GA & OTR Lease Purchase Drivers

  • Avg $1,000-$1,500 per week + bonus
  • Home weekly
  • Layover & Stop pay
  • Safety, Performance, Fuel, and Referral Bonuses
  • Excellent benefits
  • No Touch Freight
  • Paid Orientation
  • Pet Program
  • Rider Program

Stevens is hiring home nightly Local Dry Van Drivers in Oklahoma City, OK as well as home every other night Local Dry Van Drivers in Oklahoma City.

  • Monday – Friday schedule with occasional Saturday work
  • Average 40-60 hours worked per week
  • Paid $17.50 per hour with overtime at $26.25 after 40 hours worked
  • Earning potential based on average hours ranges from $42,000 – $60,000
  • Safety, Referral, Performance, and Fuel Bonuses
  • Home daily or every other day (truck must be parked in the drop yard)
  • All no touch freight, bumping docks
  • Pet program
  • Rider program
  • Full benefits available

Stevens is hiring a CDL A Regional Dedicated Driver in Detroit, MI.

  • Monday through Friday, weekend work required occasionally depending on how busy it is
  • Dedicated run from Detroit to Doylestown, PA
  • Home every other night
  • $0.55 CPM / minimum of 2,400 miles per week
  • All miles paid, loaded and unloaded
  • Sign-on, Fuel, Safety, Inspection, and Referral bonuses
  • Full benefits available
  • Pet Program
  • Rider Program
  • Take Home Truck Program

Stevens requires 2 years of verifiable experience for those drivers looking to get straight to work, a minimum hiring age of 22 years old, an excellent driving record, and a CDL Class A certification.

Interested in applying?

Learn more about the job requirements, benefits, pay and more.

Learn More & Apply

button transportation

Today’s job of the day comes from Button Transportation

Button Transportation is a family-owned and operated business in California and has been thriving for over 40 years. Their fertilizer and harvest transportation work is the backbone of their business. At Button Transportation, “we help farmers reap what we help them sow.”

Button is currently hiring CDL A Regional Tanker Drivers in Dixon, CA and CDL A OTR Tanker Drivers nationwide. Regional Tanker drivers will be responsible for organic material. The OTR position for a Food Grade Cargo and is hiring from all 48 states (except Maine and Florida). Both positions are no touch freight. Drivers must connect the hose, open product valves, and monitor the loading and unloading.

Regional Driver Compensation & Benefits:

  • Percentage based pay 25% to start. Increases every year.
  • Average weekly pay $1,000
  • Additional pay: Waiting time, 34-hr restart
  • Weekly pay via direct deposit
  • Benefits package –
  • Medical, Dental and Vision benefits effectively starts after 30 days
    • 401K program with 50% company match up to 10% of paycheck
    • Year-end bonus program
    • $100 Driver Referral Bonus Program

OTR Driver Compensation & Benefits:

  • CPM pay – Depending on experience – $0.46-$0.53
  • Avg miles per week – 2,500 miles
  • Additional pay: Waiting time, 34-hr restart
  • Average weekly pay: $1,150 – $1,325 (pending on experience)
  • Weekly pay via direct deposit
  • Rider program for relatives or spouse 18+ (with proper paperwork)
  • Benefits package –
  • Medical, Dental and Vision benefits effectively starts after 30 days
    • 401K program with 50% company match up to 10% of paycheck
    • Year-end bonus program
    • $100 Driver Referral Bonus Program

Routes & Schedule:

  • Regional Tanker Driver: Routes starting in Dixon California to surrounding area’s with some Oregon loads
    • Home most nights (some weekends home)
  • OTR Tanker Driver: Running all 48 states (except Maine and Florida)
    • Home Time: As needed, no forced dispatch
    • Take home truck program

Equipment:

  • New VNL Volvo’s with sleepers or day cab
  • Automatic and manual options available
  • Tanker endorsement preferred – Required to obtain prior to hire
  • Willing to train on tanker

Qualifications:

  • Class A CDL
  • Minimum age 22
  • Minimum of 1 year OTR driving experience
  • Regional: Prefer TWIC – will reimburse
  • Good MVR and safe driving record, including no BACs, DUIs, DWIs, or license suspensions for moving violations in the past 5 years
  • Ability to meet work attendance and availability requirements and pass all CFI certification class testing and requirements
  • Have legal right to work and live in the United State

Button offers great benefits, competitive pay, and a wonderful company culture.

Why drivers love working for Button:

Johnny Green

“I started working for Button the day after I obtained my CDL. It’s very difficult to find a good job when you’re new to the industry but at Button I found a GREAT job and was welcomed with open arms and treated with respect.”

Eduardo Felix

“From day one it been great, wonderful people and staff to work with. Bob Button is a class act, active, interested owner that is only a phone call away. Dispatchers Dan, Gene and Jeff are the best. Highly recommend company to work for.”

 

Interested in applying?

Learn more about the job requirements, benefits, pay, and more.

Regional Tanker  OTR Tanker