{"id":18349,"date":"2023-07-31T08:48:40","date_gmt":"2023-07-31T15:48:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dat.com\/resources\/?post_type=resources&#038;p=18349"},"modified":"2025-09-23T11:23:21","modified_gmt":"2025-09-23T18:23:21","slug":"become-a-commercial-truck-driver","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dat.com\/resources\/become-a-commercial-truck-driver","title":{"rendered":"How to Become a Commercial Truck Driver"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being a truck driver isn\u2019t for everyone, but for those who love the open road and want to play a vital role in keeping the U.S. economy moving, it\u2019s a career full of opportunity. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.trucking.org\/news-insights\/ata-american-trucking-trends-2024\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to the American Trucking Association<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the trucking industry employed 8.5 million people in 2023, including 3.55 million professional drivers. With continued demand for carriers, there\u2019s never been a better time to join the industry.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This guide will walk you through the key steps for how to become a commercial truck driver\u2014from meeting basic requirements and earning your Commercial Driver\u2019s License (CDL) to exploring job opportunities and building a successful career on the road. Whether you&#8217;re looking for freedom on the highway or the security of a growing profession, trucking offers both. Ready to start your journey? Let\u2019s hit the road!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Steps to become a commercial truck driver<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the idea of joining the trucking industry intrigues you, and you\u2019re ready to learn how to become a commercial truck driver, let\u2019s dive into the step-by-step process:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Check if you meet the basic requirements<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To start your journey as a commercial truck driver, you&#8217;ll need to meet a few foundational criteria:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Education:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Not every company will require you to have your GED or high school diploma, but many will. Keep this in mind as you begin job hunting.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Age:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> To get a CDL, you must be at least 18 years old to drive within your state (intrastate) and 21 years old to drive across state lines (interstate).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Driving record:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Since driving is the name of the gig, you must have a clean driving record to be eligible to receive your CDL.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Drug tests &amp; background checks:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Drug testing and background checks are not necessary to obtain your CDL. However, most <\/span><a href=\"\/drug-testing\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">companies will require you to undergo a drug test<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and background check if you want to drive for them. Some businesses may request periodic drug testing or additional once-off testing if you are involved in an accident or after a long vacation.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Non-commercial driver\u2019s license:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Before you can begin training to get your CDL, you must already have a valid <\/span><a href=\"\/resources\/differences-between-cdl-vs-non-cdl-licenses\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">non-commercial driver\u2019s license.<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Proof of identity &amp; residency:<\/b> Much like a regular driver\u2019s license, getting a CDL requires several proofs of identity. This includes proof of residency, which involves providing documents such as utility bills or mortgage payments, your social security number, and a copy of your birth certificate. Check locally to see what documents you\u2019ll need.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Obtain your CDL<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The next major step in learning how to become a commercial truck driver is earning your <\/span><a href=\"\/resources\/understanding-commercial-drivers-license\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Commercial Driver\u2019s License (CDL)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which typically takes around seven weeks. Here\u2019s how to go about getting one:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Obtain your US DOT medical card:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A big part of keeping your CDL valid is passing a physical exam to ensure you can handle the pressures of driving on the road. You must have your physical performed by a medical examiner approved by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fmcsa.dot.gov\/regulations\/national-registry\/national-registry-certified-medical-examiners\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can view the FMCSA registry here.<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Attend a driving training program: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are a variety of ways you can gain the proper training to obtain your CDL. Look in your local area and see which companies may offer company-sponsored CDL training. These programs typically take between four to six weeks to complete and tend to cost between $3K\u2013$7K. If you train with a company, they may offer financing options or reimbursement. Be sure to look at community colleges and private driving schools for additional <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov\/search\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FMCSA-approved choices<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that can help you get started with your commercial truck driving.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Pass a general knowledge test:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Passing this test will allow you to get your CDL learner\u2019s permit, which you\u2019ll need before you can start driving behind the wheel of a rig. Areas you\u2019ll need to study for the knowledge test include driving safety, vehicle inspections, air brakes, and much, much more. Check your local DMV for a copy of the CDL manual for you to study.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Prepare for and take your CDL exam:<\/b> Before you\u2019re authorized to take the final CDL test, you must have held your learner\u2019s permit for at least two weeks. This ensures you\u2019ve spent enough time practicing the skills needed to be a safe driver. Depending on where you\u2019re testing and what program you\u2019re part of, you\u2019ll need to complete a certain amount of supervised driving hours before taking the final test. The final exam will require you to take various tests, such as a pre-trip inspection and road test. If you\u2019re planning to handle any specialty cargo such as hazmat, this is when you\u2019ll also test for additional endorsements.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Develop helpful skills<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While these certainly aren\u2019t necessary for working in the trucking industry, these skills and personal traits can help you make the most out of a career in commercial truck driving and help you stand out from the competition:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Basic automotive knowledge: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understand your rig\u2019s mechanics for quick troubleshooting.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Self-starter attitude:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Independent work is essential when you&#8217;re on the road for long stretches.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Attention to detail:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Careful driving and vehicle inspections can prevent accidents and delays.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Safety-oriented mindset:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Staying vigilant ensures compliance and protects everyone on the road.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Confident navigation:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Mastering GPS tools and routes keeps deliveries on schedule.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Effective communication:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Good communication with dispatch and clients improves operations.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Eager to learn:<\/b> Staying updated on regulations and industry changes helps you stay competitive.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Why be a commercial truck driver?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Everyone has their own reasons for becoming a commercial truck driver. Maybe you enjoy the freedom of the open road, or perhaps you\u2019re seeking a stable career with steady demand. If you\u2019re considering a career in trucking, here are some of the top reasons why others have chosen this path. As a commercial driver, you can:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>Earn a good salary<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The typical<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salary.com\/research\/salary\/alternate\/commercial-truck-driver-salary\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">commercial truck driver salary<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> ranges between $55,990 and $72,290 yearly, averaging around $63,490 in the U.S. Depending on your experience, location, the freight you haul, and the company you work with, those numbers can go as high as the $70K\u2013$80K range. Even better, many companies offer opportunities to earn bonuses if you tackle more difficult hauls, such as hazardous loads, or if you provide loading\/unloading services to customers. Since you can become a driver without a college degree, this is a well-paying career choice for those who want to make a good living without necessarily accruing debt in school.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>Have comprehensive benefits<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the biggest advantages of working with a commercial trucking company is that they typically offer many benefits. While each business may differ in what options they have available, truck drivers can potentially receive coverage ranging from health and life insurance to paid time off and retirement plans. Other benefits may include dental, vision, paid holidays, and even referral bonuses.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>Get opportunities to travel<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the first things that come to mind when people think of being a truck driver is the chance to get paid to travel all over the country. Being a truck driver allows you to<\/span> <a href=\"\/solutions\/otr-trucking\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">visit different cities across the U.S.<\/span><\/a> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">as you haul your loads. For some companies, you\u2019ll even be able to travel outside of the country into Canada and Mexico.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>Be independent<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The independence and flexibility that come with truck driving are drastically different from the work typical of office jobs. While many jobs follow a rigid routine that rarely differs day to day, truck driving allows drivers to visit new places, meet new people, and even drive different rigs depending on the load. Of course, drivers must<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">adhere to their schedule<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">to ensure timely delivery, but what you do during your time on the open road is up to you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><i>Have access to training<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Companies want to ensure their drivers are safe, experienced, and reliable. As the trucking industry grows, companies are beginning to offer different perks to entice new talent, such as training reimbursements. A commercial driver\u2019s license, or CDL, is the main requirement for driving a rig, and many companies out there will even offer to pay for your commercial truck training and then give you a job after you finish. Additionally, if you already have a CDL but want to drive special equipment or handle more sensitive goods, you may need extra endorsements that a company may be willing to provide training for.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That means that even if you hope to run your own business as an <\/span><a href=\"\/carriers\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">owner-operator<\/span><\/a> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">at some point, commercial truck driving can be a great way to get started in the field and get the training you need for free.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>The road ahead: Final thoughts on how to become a commercial truck driver<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Becoming a commercial truck driver is a great way to build a stable career while enjoying the freedom of the open road. Once you meet the basic requirements, earn your CDL, and pick up a few key skills, you\u2019ll be ready to roll. Now that you know how to become a commercial truck driver, the next step is up to you\u2014get behind the wheel and start your journey!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Get your business off the ground ASAP with DAT<\/b><\/h2>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"110\" data-end=\"503\">Becoming a commercial truck driver is one thing \u2014 running your own motor carrier business is another. If you\u2019re ready to take the next step and operate under your own authority, the DAT Copilot\u2122 Authority Program is here to help. From securing your MC and DOT numbers to appointing BOC-3 process agents, we\u2019ll guide you through the paperwork and regulatory steps \u2014 quickly and hassle-free.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"505\" data-end=\"610\">Let DAT Copilot\u2122 handle the details so you can stay focused on the road ahead and growing your business.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Thinking about starting a career in trucking? A commercial truck driving career opens the door to a rewarding profession with job security, competitive benefits, and the freedom to explore new places. Beyond the miles on the road, truck drivers enjoy access to unique experiences and opportunities that few other careers offer. With the industry continuously growing, now is a great time to take the steps toward earning your CDL and joining this essential workforce.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":25,"featured_media":18485,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18349","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"acf":{"contentType":"2","enable_arrow_icon":"no_button","featured":"0","releaseDate":"July 31, 2023","solutionProduct":[],"segment":"carrier","segment_copy":["carrier"],"topics":[],"keywords":"","video_link":"","audio_link":"","header_button_shortcode":"[resource_assets_header_btn]","button_label":"Get Owner-Operator Authority","internalUrl":"https:\/\/cloud.comms.dat.com\/authority","button_target":"_blank","secondary_optional_buttonheader":null,"button_label__detail_page_optional":"","button_link_detailsub_page_bottom_section":"","featured_image_detailsub_page_optional":"","pricing_box":[{"header_title":"DAT Copilot\u2122 <br\/>Authority Bundle","price_prefix":"$","price":"[AUTHORITY_BASIC]","price_suffix":"","features":"<p style=\"text-align: left; margin-left: 20px; margin-right: 20px;\">Federal MC Authority ($300)<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left; margin-left: 20px; margin-right: 20px;\">BOC-3 MC Authority ($30)<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left; margin-left: 20px; margin-right: 20px;\">50% off DAT One for 6 months (from $150)<\/p>","button_text":"Get Started","button_link":"https:\/\/cloud.comms.dat.com\/authority","additional_info":"","target":"_blank"}],"disclaimer":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Become a Commercial Truck Driver - DAT<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to become a commercial truck driver with this step-by-step guide, covering requirements, CDL training, and key skills to help launch your career.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dat.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18349\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Become a Commercial Truck Driver - DAT\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Learn how to become a commercial truck driver with this step-by-step guide, covering requirements, CDL training, and key skills to help launch your career.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.dat.com\/resources\/become-a-commercial-truck-driver\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"DAT Freight &amp; 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