To prep for a trucking career, it’s important that you understand the job you’re signing up for. Though trucking can be very rewarding, it also takes a lot of work to make sure you’re ready to get on the road. A great way to begin is by looking over common truck driver responsibilities. We’ve included some of these duties below. If you can see yourself as a trucker, take a look at our step-by-step description of how you can get your career started!
Truck Driver Responsibilities
As a truck driver, your biggest responsibility is to keep yourself and others safe on the road. To help achieve this goal, you’ll have to frequently inspect your truck and its cargo. Also, you must pay attention to and obey traffic regulations. Long periods of driving can also be expected as a professional truck driver. Time on the road will vary depending on the specific job you select, but there are many options to explore to ensure you find the right fit for you.
How to become a Truck Driver?
If you think trucking could be for you, we’ve created an easy guide to help you get started. With these steps, you’ll be on your way to your new career in no time!
Step 1: Satisfy Requirements
First and foremost, you must understand the age requirements for your specific state to begin a career in trucking. You must be at least 21 years of age to drive across state lines. However, you are allowed to obtain your CDL at 18 years old. If you take this route, know you will need to find a local trucking job until you are 21. You also are required to have a valid driver’s license and be a U.S. citizen. If you meet these conditions, you’re ready to jump in!
Step 2: Complete a Truck Driving Program
The next step is to find a truck driving program that works for you. As of February 2022, trucking schools are required to meet Entry-Level Driver Training requirements to be a licensed training facility. You can search for a certified training school on FMCSA’s website. If you do not train with a school certified through FMCSA, you will be ineligible to schedule your CDL Exam. There are courses offered all over the country which can help you get the education needed to move forward with your trucking career. It’s important to have a mix of class instruction and hands-on learning to supply you with the necessary information for this job. These programs vary in length, but many can be completed in just a few weeks.
Step 3: Pass the Department of Transportation Physical Exam
Another important step is to complete your physical examination with a FMCSA certified medical examiner. Along with the physical, the Department of Transportation requires all truck drivers to supply their medical records and fill out related paperwork so they can evaluate your health status. If you use contacts, glasses, hearing aids, or any medications, you will have to provide those as well.
Step 4: Search for Truck Driving Job Opportunities
Once you complete you truck driving education and earn your CDL, it’s time to start searching for jobs! Since the trucking industry is growing, there are many exciting opportunities to explore. At UTDS, we offer our students Job Placement Assistance to get them started in the transportation industry. We can help you strengthen your resume, fill out applications, and connect with employers. By guiding you through this process, we help set you up for a career you can be proud of.
Step 5: Get on the Road!
Once you’ve secured a trucking position, you’re ready to go! Make sure you remain safe and focused on the road and take all your training with you. Don’t forget about all the hard work that got you there! Collect that experience and keep on trucking.
How United Truck Driving School can Help
Here at United Truck Driving School, we offer a Class A CDL, Class B CDL, and CDL-A + Passenger training program. Our high-quality, ELDT certified training curriculum taught by our experienced staff, will equip you with the skills you need to thrive in the trucking industry. You’ll leave with hands-on experience that you can apply directly to your new job. If you’re worried about tuition cost, ask us about our various Tuition Assistance programs! Take the first step towards your exciting new career with help from United Truck Driving School!
