According to the Bureau of Labor Services, there are about 2 million truck driving jobs in the United States.
Are you thinking about applying for one of the positions of a professional truck driver? You will have to jump through some hoops first.
But what is really necessary to become a truck driver? Keep reading to find out!
Meet All Requirements
First, you will have to meet all the requirements to become a truck driver. You will have to be at least twenty-one years old.
You will have to pass an alcohol or drug test too. They may even make you take a physical.
You will also need a good driving record with no DUIs and no major accidents.
Take Some Educational Courses
In order to become a truck driver, you will have to go through truck driver training first. You should have at least a high school degree or your GED. You will need some other certifications, but having some extra classes under your belt can really help you stand out.
There are several accredited community college programs for truck driving that you could apply for. There are also private truck-driving schools as well.
These programs can take as little as a few months, but they could also be as long as a year. If you can not afford it, you can always apply for tuition assistance as well.
They will teach you how to drive a big truck, be safe on the road, and use equipment like a truck hook.
Get All Your Certifications
After driving school, you will have to start getting your certifications as well. If you went to a good school, you should have no problem passing your exams.
You will need a Commercial Drivers License (CDL), which you will have to pass an exam for. You will also need to get a Federal Moto Carrier Safety Regulation (FMCSR) exam.
This includes a written exam, but you will also have to take a sight and hearing test.
Pass a Training Period
Once you do find a company that you think you would like to work with, you will have to pass a training period with them.
Even if you passed all the other tests, they may still have you take one of theirs to make sure that you can really drive safely. Unlike the other written tests, this one will mostly be an on-the-road test.
Once you pass the exam, the company will assign you your own truck. They will give you a delivery route, and you will be responsible for completing it on your own!
Learn More About What Else You Need to Be a Professional Truck Driver
These are only a few things you need to know about how to become a professional truck driver, but there are many more that can help you along with your career.
We know that becoming a truck driver is not an easy path, but we are here to help you out!
If you enjoyed this article, make sure that you explore our website to find more articles just like this one.