If you’ve ever considered becoming a truck driver, now is the time to act. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that this industry will increase by 6% over the next seven years, giving new drivers plenty of employment opportunities. Plus, training is minimal and costs less than a traditional degree. All you need to do is meet the following requirements.     

What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Truck Driver?

Be at Least 21 Years Old

Truck driving is a unique field in that there is only one age requirement—truck drivers must be at least 21 years old. There is no maximum cutoff. Hence, this career is ideal for every generation. Currently, the average driver is 49 years old and individuals aged 45 to 64 comprise nearly 50% of the industry. But with the rapid rise of college tuition, there could be an increase in young drivers over the next decade.

Meet Medical Qualifications

Vision loss, hearing loss, epilepsy, and insulin use make it difficult to handle a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) safely. Hence, individuals with these conditions may be disqualified. Prospective truck drivers must also pass the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) physical assessment as well as a drug and alcohol test.    

Attend Truck Driving School

Truck drivers must attend truck driving school so they master the rules of the road. Fortunately, this training takes less time and is cheaper than a college degree. CDL training takes mere months, whereas the average undergraduate program takes four years. Likewise, the average price of truck driving school ranges from $1,000 to $7,000. Many schools also offer financial assistance and have both day and night classes.

Have a Clean Driving Record

Truck drivers have a personal commitment to operating their CMV safely. Hence, besides learning how to maintain and operate a rig, they must prove they have a solid driving history. Small infractions like incorrect parking and minor speeding won’t disqualify a student, but suspensions and revocations will.   

Obtain a Valid CDL

Students receive their commercial driver’s license or CDL after they graduate truck driving school and pass the final exam. This exam consists of three parts: a road test, a vehicle inspection, and a backing test. Once complete, the graduate is ready to embark on their new career path.

Are you considering a career as a professional truck driver? Attend Hamrick School in Medina, OH. For the last 20 years, their passionate instructors have helped thousands of students gain the skills they need to succeed in this rewarding industry. Call them at (330) 239-2229 for more on the admissions process and visit them online to learn about the curriculum.

OH Reg. #2057

ODPS License #1439-2369