How to Become a Truck Driver & Start a Rewarding Career in Logistics

Fresh out of school and looking for a lucrative career or perhaps it’s time for a career change? Don’t overlook the trucking industry!

Long gone are the outdated, rough stereotypes of the trucker. In 2021, the modern day trucker is a road warrior, always technologically connected, and living the travel lifestyle. 

All of those social media accounts you follow of wanderlusters living in a van or RV? Truckers are doing that- and getting paid!

Plus, trucking jobs in PA are in high demand at the moment. There’s plenty of work to go around, great benefits and flexibility to choose your schedule.

You also don’t need a college degree to become a truck driver (although, the age for when you can get your CDL varies from state to state).

Sounds good to you? Now, here’s how to become a truck driver- it’s pretty straightforward.

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1. You need a valid driver’s license

As stated above, driver’s license laws vary by state, so the first thing you’ll want to do is pull up your local government website to get the low down on license requirements. Generally, you must hold a driver’s license to start driving local delivery trucks. Meanwhile, you should start studying for your commercial driver’s license (CDL) in order to drive a semi truck.

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2. Work on your GED and attend a truck driving school

If you have a GED or high school diploma and your CDL, then technically you are ready to hit the road. If you don’t have a GED or diploma, you’ll need to get this done. You can do so at your local community college or sign up for truck driving school, where courses are offered to get your GED. 

Truck driving school is worthwhile, because there are tons of important courses that grant certifications that do make a difference when it’s time to apply for jobs. Some essentials to consider include…

• Combination Vehicle Endorsement: Gives you the qualifications to drive semi-trucks, school vehicles, HAZMAT loads, and tanker trucks.

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation (FMCSR) Exam: This exam ensures you are physically sound to drive and a safe driver as well. There are 2 parts to the exam: a physical sight and hearing assessment and a written section on federal traffic laws.

3. Start your truck job search

Truck drivers in PA are in high demand in 2021, all you have to do is know where to look. You can find job postings on internet job searches, like Indeed and Monster. There are also Truck driving associations with job boards, and truck driving schools will offer counseling services and job placement. You can even look up the local logistic companies websites - many of them will offer the option to apply for a driver position online.

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4. Start your career as a truck driver

Congratulations! You’ve got yourself a rewarding job as a truck driver, and from here- the sky’s the limit. Focus on honing your skills and gaining experience hauling a variety of loads, and enjoy the benefits that working in the logistics industry brings!