Semi Truck Driving Job Requirements, Endorsements, and Restrictions (physical labor jobs)

November 19th, 2008 admin Posted in employment |

By Keith Baxter

Semi truck driving jobs are a great career choice for individuals who love to drive long hours on the open road. The pay is great; there are job openings nationwide; and you have the additional option of becoming an independent owner operator.

Many companies have an age requirement of 21 years or older for their employees. Before applying for semi truck driving jobs, make sure that you have the proper licensure, training, and experience to meet the necessary requirements.

Semi truck drivers transport livestock, materials, or other goods with a capacity of at least 26,000 pounds. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), individuals who operate semis are required to obtain a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) and may be required to obtain other endorsements and restrictions:

T - Double/Triple Trailers (Knowledge test only)

P - Passenger (Knowledge and Skills Tests)

N - Tank Vehicle (Knowledge Test only)

H - Hazardous Materials (Knowledge Test only)

X - Combination of Tank Vehicle and Hazardous Materials

Drivers must also possess a good driving record, according to the requirements of the FMCSA. This driving record precedes the two-year period prior to obtaining a CDL:

Has not had more than one license;

Has not had any license suspended, revoked, or canceled;

Has not had any convictions in any type of motor vehicle for major disqualifying offenses;

Has not had more than one conviction for any type of motor vehicle for serious traffic violations;

Has not had any violation of State or local law relating to motor vehicle traffic control arising in connection with any traffic accident, and has no record of an accident in which he/she was at fault.

(Source: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration-licensing/cdl/cdl.htm)

For most individuals, these requirements are worth the time and cost involved. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the overall job outlook is positive. Depending on the industry, average wages paid for semi truck driving jobs range from $32,460 to $52,200 per year.

After gaining some experience as an employee, many drivers choose to become independent contractors and will buy or lease their own trucks. Whether you choose to buy or lease depends upon your creditworthiness and your long-term goals. Leasing can be a less expensive option and is often an easier way to begin for individuals who want to jump start their own business. Lease to buy options are also available.

Openings in semi truck driving jobs are on the rise and continued growth in this industry is expected. Whether you want to work for a company or run your own trucking business, semi truck driving jobs offer a rewarding career.

To get the latest insider tips about the CDL trucking industry, visit http://www.classarecruiters.com/.

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