How to Become a Long Distance Truck Driver
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, truck driving is one of the largest occupations in the United States, holding over 3 million job positions. At the time of publication, truckers average between $14.21 and $22.56 per hour. The majority of those truckers are long-distance drivers, also known as OTR or over the road drivers. OTR drivers are responsible for hauling freight all across the United States and Canada. To become an OTR trucker, you need sufficient training and experience.
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Instructions
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Enroll for courses at an accredited commercial driver's license truck driving school that offers OTR training. The best OTR schools offer a minimum of 44 hours of hands-on driving time and also have a job placement program to help you find work after completing the course.
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Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles to apply for your Class A commercial driver's license. To obtain your license, you must pass a written and hands-on examination. To increase your job opportunities, request a hazardous materials endorsement on your CDL (see Resources).
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Apply for jobs with local carriers to build up your truck driving experience. The more truck driving experience you have, the greater your chances of landing an OTR job. It's best to get at least six months to one year of local driving experience.
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Maintain a clean and safe driving record. All vehicle violations are reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles and placed on your Drive-A-Check report. A bad DAC report can prevent you from obtaining a job as an OTR driver.
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Apply for a job with an OTR carrier, once you have sufficient solo driving experience. Be sure to advise the carrier of your truck driving experience and hazmat endorsement, if applicable.
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References
Resources
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