Do you like to drive the big rigs and move out on the open road? Maybe you would enjoy a job driving a truck locally so you can be home each night. Trucking driving jobs pay well and can be very satisfying, but how do you become a trucker? Here are some helpful tips on qualifications and finding the right position.
You Need to Be Qualified
To be a professional truck driver, you should have a clean driving record. For example, if you had a lot of traffic accidents lately, this will not look good. Are there any DUIs on your record? How many tickets have you received in the past few years for moving violations? If your driving record is poor, perhaps you should consider waiting a year or so to give it a chance to clear up?
Criminal Record
Do you have a record of arrests? Were there any felony arrests? You may still be able to get a job driving a truck, but you will be expected to explain the circumstances involved. However, some kinds of arrests like DUI felonies may prevent you from being considered. Most companies do not offer truck driving jobs to people they feel they cannot trust or depend on. After all, you carry a lot of responsibility on 18 wheels when you operate one of those big rigs.
Education
Although education requirements are not strict, you should, at least, have a high school diploma or equivalency. In fact, it may be very hard to get accepted to a truck driver school when you do not have minimal education requirements.
Training
If you already have your CDL, then you may not need additional training. If not, you have two choices when it comes to truck driver training. You can enroll in a school and then go out looking for employment, or you can approach a trucking company and take a company sponsored CDL course. The best companies offer tuition reimbursement, and you may have a job waiting for you when you complete the course.
Check Benefits Packages
Not all companies offer the same benefits. Make sure you have medical, dental, and a good retirement plan. Plus, if you are looking for truck driving jobs within your city, choose a company with a terminal as close to home as possible, for convenience. Also, consider a company offering assigned trucks so you can drive the same truck each time. These features can make your job much easier and more enjoyable.
