Becoming a truck driver can be a lucrative endeavor, but it’s important to understand everything that comes with it. Being on the road for days or even weeks at a time, practicing safe habits on the road, sleeping in the vehicle, and navigating unfamiliar roads in various conditions are just a few of the things you’ll need to face as a truck driver.
The process of starting a career as a truck driver requires careful thought, as well as getting familiar with the laws and regulations that truck drivers must be knowledgeable about. You’ll also need to obtain specific certifications and decide whether you want to work for a major company or for yourself. Take a look around Road Scholar Transport to find out more about your options and to learn about the different types of freight you can haul.
Start by doing your research
Before getting started in a truck driving career, it’s crucial to do some research and learn more about the training required, the average salary, and what your options are when it comes to finding jobs. If you’re willing to pay for your own truck and cover your expenses, working for yourself can provide quite a bit of flexibility; however, many truck drivers prefer to have the support of a company behind them. Keep in mind that purchasing your own truck will run you between $75,000 and $180,000.
Take a look at your schooling options
Once you have a better idea of the kind of career you want, you can begin looking at your schooling options. Consider the type of license you want to get: Class A, B, or C. Class A license holders can drive trucks with the highest weight, which is typically more lucrative. You’ll also need to take a look at different schools and find out what type of classes they offer, as some provide flexible hours. On average, a full-time truck driving student can complete the course in 3-4 weeks, which includes about 120 hours of road training.
Put together your resume
After you’ve obtained your license, you can start looking for a job. This can be a lengthy process for many individuals, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Putting together a great resume will be essential, as you can list your training, accomplishments, experience, and skills in an attention-grabbing format. Keep it neat and concise, and save your resume as a PDF file so you can go in later and make changes – this PDF online editor works well. This just requires you to upload the file online to add changes, and then you can download it and share the finished version easily.
Know what to look for in a truck driving job
When you’re ready to start searching for a driving job, it’s essential that you know what to look for. A few things you’ll want to take into consideration include:
- What your pay will be, and how often you’ll receive it
- How many days you’ll need to be on the road vs. how much time you’ll be at home
- What you’ll be hauling
- What the company’s reputation is like
Do your research about a company before signing on and learn more about their history by connecting with other drivers who have had experience with them, as this is the best way to learn about a company’s culture.
Becoming a truck driver is a big step that requires careful thought, but with a little research and the right training, you can begin your career within the next couple of months. Take a look at all your options and think about some goals so you can make the best decision for your needs.
Have questions for the team at Road Scholar Transport? Reach out and get in touch today.
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