There is always key information and facts to know before looking into some jobs. For example, those that are looking to become a truck driver will need to have some necessary required documents set up before even applying for a position. To help you understand what it takes to become a truck driver, and some other common questions that are asked, a short brief was compiled for your convenience. Therefore, continue reading for the key facts about truck driving positions that you might want to know prior to applying for the position.
What Is a Truck Driver?
According to Wikipedia, “A truck driver (commonly referred to as a trucker, teamster or driver in the United States and Canada; a truckie in Australia and New Zealand;[1] a lorry driver, or driver in Ireland, the United Kingdom, India, Nepal and Pakistan) is a person who earns a living as the driver of a truck (usually a semi-truck, box truck or dump truck).” Truck drivers have many different functions that are included in the job that sometimes also do not have to do with the actual driving. This can include maintenance on the truck, travel preparation, keeping the truck clean, some have to consider sales and positive customer service.
What Is a Commercial Driver’s License?
To become a truck driver or apply for any truck driving jobs, you will need to obtain a commercial driver’s license. This is also defined in Wikipedia, “A commercial driver’s license is a driver’s license required to operate large or heavy vehicles.” There are a few different types of the license that you can get that you will need to know. They are called Class A CDL and Class B CDL. These define what the minimum requirements are met for each license per each state.
What Are Some of the Things a First Year Truck Driver Experiences?
Primarily, a truck driver is on the road for most of the job. However, in order to become a professional driver, you must be flexible as problems can happen on the road. As a truck driver, you are considered the face of the company. You will be traveling for most of the time, but there are still other things to prepare for during your first year. This can include a change in lifestyle, changes in home life, and the learning curve of handling a large truck and or a trailer, getting the right paperwork completed, preparation of schedule changes, and others. Life as a trucker can sometimes be lonely; therefore, if you are able to amuse yourself on a consistent basis, then this might be a good option for you.
Estimated Amount of Income a Truck Driver Makes
Once the road consumes your life, you will want to earn enough money to support yourself and your family back home. However, what is the average amount a full-time trucker makes? The answer to this is slightly different based on what company you choose to apply for. Some companies can pay an average of $0.27 to $0.40 cents a mile. In addition, some companies choose to pay hourly which can range an average of $18-$25 per hour. Again, it is based on what company you choose to work for.
In conclusion, truck driving is an excellent position to head towards. However, if you do your research on the details it takes to perform the job, you will be more prepared. Therefore, if you are one that loves to travel, likes to make money, can amuse yourself alone, and do not mind being away from home, then this job may be a great fit for you.