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Truck Driving Jobs Information
Job Outlook*:
Job opportunities should be favorable for truck drivers with faster than average growth of light and heavy truck driver employment.
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What do Truck Driver Jobs Pay?
The median hourly truck driver employment earnings in 2002 were as follows*:
- Heavy truck and tractor trailer drivers - $15.97 (lowest 10% less than $10.01 and highest 10% more than $23.75 an hour)
- Light or delivery services truck drivers - $11.48 (lowest 10% less than $7.03 and highest 10% more than $20.68 an hour)
Note that generally local truck drivers earn an hourly wage and possibly overtime pay whereas long distance or over-the-road (otr) drivers typically get paid by the mile. Also note that the driver's pay rate may vary significantly from company to company, the miles driven, experience/seniority, and type of truck or tractor trailer driven.
Looking for a new truck driving job?
Qualifications:
Truck drivers must abide by state and federal regulations. Tractor-trailer drivers must possess a CDL (commercial drivers license) from the state in which they live. Endorsements may also be needed. A standard driver's license is acceptable for all other drivers. Information about obtaining a CDL can be found by contacting the State Department of Motor Vehicles. Most truck drivers pursue truck driver training programs through vocational or trade schools.
Local truck drivers must be eighteen years old. However, those driving between states must be 21 years of age. They also must pass a physical examination every two years. They must have good hearing, 20/40 vision with glasses, and normal color vision. Other health issues are addressed, such as diabetes or epilepsy. Routine drug screenings are also performed.
A truck driver's duties can vary depending on what the driver is hauling, the trucking company he/she is working for, and other factors.
Still considering a trucking career but not sure the exact field of interest? Alltruckingjobs.com lists several trucking jobs with descriptions and career information.
Demand For Truck Drivers In The News
Truck driving jobs outlook looks good, really good right now according to an article called - Demand for truck drivers soars as economy improves Companies lure workers with high wages, bonuses (detnews.com).
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2004-05 Edition, Truck Drivers and Driver/Sales Workers, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos246.htm.
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