Drive your future forward with one of America’s most rewarding and high-paying careers today!

Truck driving powers the American economy. Every day, millions of goods are delivered thanks to dedicated drivers who ensure shelves stay stocked and businesses operate. Many choose to work as a truck driver.

With high demand across states, truck driving has become a stable and rewarding career choice. Professional drivers enjoy competitive pay, strong job security, and valuable benefits.

Unlike many traditional jobs, truck drivers experience freedom on the road. The lifestyle brings independence, travel opportunities, and a chance to explore new destinations while working.

Employers across the US are actively hiring, offering training programs, bonuses, and long-term stability. This career path continues growing and welcoming motivated professionals into the industry.

Is it really worth it?

Truck driving offers far more than just a paycheck. For many, it’s a lifestyle of independence, freedom, and the satisfaction of directly fueling the nation’s economy.

The profession also comes with strong financial rewards. With shortages of drivers nationwide, employers are offering higher wages, sign-on bonuses, and reliable long-term contracts for stability.

For motivated individuals seeking stable careers, excellent pay, and growth potential, the question isn’t whether it’s worth it—it’s how soon you can start driving.

Salary and job outlook

Starting salaries are impressive, and the future looks promising. You can easily earn a strong living when you decide to work as a truck driver.

🔹 Average salary potential: Many drivers earn between $50,000 and $75,000 annually, with specialized hauls offering even higher earnings across the United States.
🔹 High job demand: The industry consistently reports shortages, ensuring steady employment opportunities for qualified candidates looking for stability and long-term success.
🔹 Additional bonuses available: Many companies reward safe driving, long routes, and loyalty with attractive sign-on bonuses, health benefits, and retirement plans.
🔹 Career growth pathways: Drivers can transition into training, logistics management, or even become owner-operators with their own trucks.
🔹 Nationwide opportunities: Truck drivers are needed in every state, making it easier to find employment close to home or across the country.

Requirements to become a truck driver in the US

Truck driving has straightforward entry requirements, making it accessible to many. While the profession demands responsibility, the process to start is clear and manageable for most.

To begin your journey and work as a truck driver, you’ll need to meet legal, health, and licensing requirements that ensure safety and compliance with federal standards.

✔️ Minimum age requirement: You must be at least 21 years old for interstate driving and 18 years old for intrastate operations.
✔️ Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): A valid CDL is mandatory, obtained after passing written tests, practical exams, and behind-the-wheel training.
✔️ Medical certification: Drivers must pass a DOT physical exam confirming vision, hearing, and overall health meet safety standards required by law.
✔️ Clean driving record: Employers typically require minimal violations, no major accidents, and no history of reckless driving for consideration.
✔️ English proficiency: The ability to read road signs and communicate in English is mandatory under federal regulations for all drivers.

How to get a commercial driver’s license (CDL)

Training and licensing are essential steps toward becoming a professional driver. Fortunately, the US offers structured pathways to help newcomers succeed and join the industry quickly.

To officially work as a truck driver, you’ll need to earn a CDL, which proves you are qualified to handle commercial vehicles safely and responsibly.

Enroll in a truck driving school

Schools provide structured education, combining classroom instruction with practical training. These programs typically last several weeks and prepare candidates for both written and road tests.

Professional training increases employability and helps drivers gain confidence. Most employers prefer graduates from accredited schools because they demonstrate skill, safety awareness, and readiness for demanding routes.

Obtain a CDL learner’s permit

After studying the CDL manual, candidates must pass written exams covering safety, road rules, and vehicle operation. Success grants a learner’s permit for supervised driving practice.

This stage allows real-world training under professional supervision. It’s a vital step toward the ability to independently work as a truck driver after completing licensing requirements.

Complete behind-the-wheel training

Hands-on experience matters most in trucking. Learners practice pre-trip inspections, maneuvering, parking, and highway driving. Instructors provide feedback to ensure drivers meet federal safety and performance standards.

Training covers a range of environments—from city streets to interstates. This ensures drivers develop confidence and skills necessary for long routes and varying road conditions.

Pass the CDL skills test

The final exam includes three parts: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and a road test. Passing demonstrates proficiency in handling large trucks safely.

Employers value candidates who complete training thoroughly. Successful applicants become highly sought-after professionals, ready for competitive salaries, benefits, and long-term security within the trucking industry.

Secure endorsements for specialized driving

Additional certifications, like hazardous materials or tanker endorsements, open doors to higher-paying jobs. They require extra written tests and background checks for safety-sensitive roles.

By earning endorsements, drivers position themselves for career advancement. Many of the best-paying roles require these qualifications to fully work as a truck driver in the US.

How to apply to work as a truck driver?

Once you’ve earned your CDL, the next step is applying for jobs. Fortunately, top companies are constantly hiring to meet demand across the nation.

To successfully work as a truck driver, you’ll need to prepare your resume, highlight your CDL, and target employers offering pay, benefits, and home-time balance.

Schneider National

Schneider is one of America’s largest trucking companies, offering opportunities for new and experienced drivers across multiple divisions like tanker, dedicated, and regional.

The company provides paid training, safety bonuses, and career development programs, making it attractive for drivers looking to build long-term careers.

How to apply at Schneider:

• Step 1: Visit the Schneider careers website and search for available truck driving opportunities nationwide.
• Step 2: Submit an online application highlighting CDL status, experience, and endorsements.
• Step 3: Complete company onboarding and start driving with competitive pay and benefits.

Swift Transportation

Swift offers entry-level opportunities and invests heavily in training. It’s ideal for beginners seeking supportive programs, mentorship, and access to different types of trucking jobs.

With thousands of trucks and nationwide coverage, Swift ensures reliable employment and competitive pay for both new graduates and experienced professionals.

How to apply at Swift:

• Step 1: Access Swift’s career page and choose your preferred driving division.
• Step 2: Fill out the driver application form with personal, licensing, and employment details.
• Step 3: Complete background check and attend orientation before beginning routes.

Werner Enterprises

Werner is known for modern fleets, technology, and nationwide coverage. The company hires drivers across multiple divisions, from regional hauls to long-distance freight.

With paid training, benefits, and advancement opportunities, Werner offers strong support to help candidates thrive when they work as a truck driver.

How to apply at Werner:

• Step 1: Visit Werner’s recruitment website and browse current openings.
• Step 2: Submit your application online, including CDL details and endorsements.
• Step 3: Attend orientation, complete onboarding, and begin driving routes with Werner’s modern fleet.

Life on the road: what to expect

Truck driving is more than just a job—it’s a lifestyle. Drivers spend long hours on the road, balancing independence with responsibility, freedom, and professionalism.

When you choose to work as a truck driver, expect unique experiences. Life on the road offers adventure but also challenges, requiring adaptability, resilience, and discipline.

Pros of truck driving

⭐ High earning potential: Drivers consistently earn above-average salaries, with opportunities for bonuses, benefits, and growth into specialized hauls or ownership.
⭐ Nationwide demand: Truck drivers enjoy strong job security, with opportunities in nearly every state and region across the United States.
⭐ Freedom and independence: Long hours on the road bring personal freedom, travel opportunities, and independence not found in traditional office jobs.
⭐ Diverse job types: Options include local, regional, or long-haul driving, plus specialized categories like hazardous materials, refrigerated, or oversized loads.
⭐ Career stability: With persistent shortages, drivers rarely face unemployment and often find quick job placements after completing training.

Cons of truck driving

⚠️ Time away from home: Long-haul routes often require extended time away from family, which can be difficult for some drivers.
⚠️ Physical demands: Long sitting hours, irregular sleep schedules, and potential health challenges make trucking physically demanding over time.
⚠️ Strict regulations: Federal hours-of-service rules limit driving time, requiring adherence to schedules and electronic logging devices (ELDs).
⚠️ Traffic and stress: Navigating highways, weather conditions, and heavy traffic can be stressful, demanding focus and patience on every trip.
⚠️ Upfront training costs: While some companies sponsor training, others require drivers to invest money and time before starting their careers.

Check other options: job openings at FedEx!

Truck driving is a rewarding career with steady income and opportunities for advancement. But it’s not the only path in the American transportation industry.

For those who want to work as a truck driver, companies like Schneider, Swift, and Werner offer excellent opportunities, but options extend beyond traditional trucking.

FedEx also provides attractive jobs for drivers, package handlers, and logistics professionals. With competitive pay, benefits, and growth potential, it’s an appealing choice for many job seekers.

If you’re ready to explore a stable career, consider applying at FedEx today. It could be your next step toward success in transportation.