Professional truck drivers play a significant role in the supply chain. They move a vast range of goods. If you are thinking of becoming one, know that this job is not for some random person who doesn’t like responsibilities to take care. But if you want to train to be a truck driver, know that you have various options – community colleges, private driving schools, and even the trucking companies. If you want to know what being a professional truck driver entails, read on.
Understanding What Truck Drivers Do
While on the road, truck drivers are on their own. That is why you must know the basics, like how to check your vehicle, plan for long trips, and ensure that all cargoes are safe. Also, truck drivers need to have customer service abilities because they are the ones who will be talking face-to-face with the shippers and the dispatcher. Be prepared because this is different from your regular 9 to 5 job. The shifts of truck drivers can be as long as 14 hours at a time.
Becoming A Truck Driver
To become a truck driver, training and experience are a must. The training part can take a few weeks to a few months. During these times, you will learn more than just the road rules. Here’s what you need to know to become a truck driver.
- Age Requirement. And before anyone can become a truck driver, there’s an age requirement for truck drivers. You must be at least 21 to drive a commercial vehicle. But in most cases, some programs will let you get a learners’ permit as early as 18.
- Pass CDL Exam. You must have a valid driver’s license from your state before getting a CDL. And while studying for your CDL, you can already start getting a job driving delivery trucks.
- Employer’s Finishing Program. Most companies will require new truck drivers’ in-house training. Driver finishing programs from some companies will introduce you to the company vehicles, supplies in cargoes, and equipment you need to work with. Most of the time, the finishing programs will take 3 to 4 weeks.
Becoming a professional truck driver takes a lot of work. It takes a lot of thought and determination if you want to be good at this job. If you want to learn more about finding similar jobs, check over here. Remember, this job is not for everyone. That is why you must have thought about it clearly and have the right experience and training to get accepted.
