A career as a truck driver can be highly rewarding. At H.O. Wolding, we provide an extensive list of job openings for qualified truck drivers looking for positions in the industry. Here is a general checklist to follow if you are interested in becoming professional truck driver:
Take a Regular Driver’s License State Exam
If you do not currently have a driver’s license, you will not have the capability to legally drive any type of vehicle, regardless of whether it is a truck or something smaller. It is imperative to obtain a standard driver’s license in your state if you do not yet have one. This is done by taking your state’s driver’s license exam. Once you have obtained your license, you can move forward to earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL).
Fulfill Necessary Education and Training
Long-haul trucking employers often expect applicants to, at a minimum, possess a high school diploma or equivalent GED, along with a CDL. The completion of truck driving educational curriculum from an accredited truck driving school of community college is also imperative.
Obtain Your Required Licenses, Registrations, and Certifications
At a truck driving school, you will learn how to operate a truck properly as well, as build a knowledge base of the regulatory details necessary to pass your license exam. Accumulating endorsements is also important. For instance, a combination vehicle endorsement can qualify you to drive more than one type of vehicle, such as tanker trucks, semi-trucks, trucks with hazardous material loads, school vehicles, and other large vehicles.
An additional step toward getting a job as a truck driver is passing the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation (FMCSR) exam. When you take this test, you will undergo a physical, sight, and hearing assessment, in addition to a written portion that tests your knowledge of federal traffic laws. For every type of CDL endorsement, a passing grade on the skillset and written test is required. You can gain experience on the road under the guidance of a CDL licensed driver once you have your Commercial Learners Permit (CLP).
Use Job Placement Assistance Options if Needed
Some truck driving schools will help you gain access to job placement boards and career counseling. Job boards and career advice is also available through other truck driving associations and organizations.
Complete Orientation and Training
Some trucking companies require new recruits to undergo several weeks of driver training and orientation. This helps them gain familiarity with the type of truck they will drive, related equipment, and more.
Gather Driving Experience
What you gain experience driving one that the vehicle, you can move forward with additional opportunities – for instance driving a tractor-trailer. After you obtain all of the appropriate licenses and certifications for type of driving job you want, you can start gaining experience on the road. Do not get discouraged if you are not immediately able to land you dream truck driving job. Sometime you need to build your resume by taking other related driving jobs before you are qualified for your ideal position.
If you are looking for excellent truck driver opportunities, check out some of the truck driving jobs we have listed on our website. Or, you can contact us for additional information about our services and employment opportunities.