The United States has more than 3.5 million people currently working in the truck driving industry. It is a walk of life that gives drivers freedom that they wouldn't get with other kinds of jobs. This industry is also so important to getting goods all over the country. If you are prepared to move forward in your truck driving career, the tips in this article will be helpful.
1. What makes truck driver positions so attractive?
Truck driving positions are sought after because the earnings potential is huge. You can get a job with a trucking company that always has jobs available for you, or you can become an owner-operator who is more entrepreneurial and finds your own contracts. Driving trucks gives you access to the open road. These trips can let you see more of the country than you ever would have done otherwise. Outside of the tourist attractions, you will get a chance to travel to real communities during the course of your work to interact with people and see how they live.
If you don't want to be tied to a desk job, getting your commercial driver's license (CDL) is a step that will be helpful. You can learn skills that can keep you gainfully employed for many years.
2. What kinds of truck driver licenses and designations should you get?
There are a lot of different commercial driver's license types that you can get based on the kinds of jobs that you want to take. A CDL A driver's license is one that lets you operate trucks that weigh more than 10,000 pounds while carrying loads weighing 26,001 pounds or more. A CDL B license lets you haul loads more than 26,000 pounds while driving a vehicle that is lighter than 10,000 pounds. These commercial licenses let you drive semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, tanks, and all sorts of other vehicles.
3. How can you find the right trucking jobs for your career?
Make sure that the jobs you choose fit your license designation. After you have gotten your license you can add your resume and portfolio to some portals that staff driving jobs. You can keep improving yourself by taking classes, and most importantly, developing relationships all over the trucking industry. This is the best way to have your last job springboard to your next job. Keep your license and record clean and always act professionally on every project.
Use these tips and start applying for CDL A truck driver positions.
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