TRANSPORTATION
BECOME A
Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver
"Without trucks, America stops."
— Unknown
Program Start:
Coming Soon
Program Duration:
TBA
PAY SNAPSHOT
2023 Median National Annual Pay
$54,320
2023 Top Decile National Annual Pay
$76,780
6 Month Advertised Salary Growth
3%
12 Month Advertised Salary Growth
6%
What Is A Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver?
A Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver operates large trucks to transport cargo across cities, states, or regions, often covering long distances. They ensure timely deliveries, maintain vehicle safety, comply with transport regulations, and manage logistics such as loading, unloading, and route planning. Drivers inspect trucks before and after trips, check fluid levels, monitor road conditions, and adapt to weather or traffic challenges. They must keep accurate logs, follow weight limits, and adhere to industry safety standards. Drivers may also handle minor vehicle repairs, coordinate with dispatchers, and ensure customer satisfaction.
What Could I Earn?
National median annual pay (2023) for truck drivers in the top industries in which they worked were as follows
How Do I Become A Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver?
Becoming a Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver requires a combination of education, hands-on experience, and technical skill. These can typically be acquired through a trade school or vocational program, community college, or 4-year university, depending on the breadth of knowledge and experience required. A short curriculum may read as follows:
CDL Training & Licensing
Students prepare for the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) exam, covering regulations, vehicle inspections, and road safety. Training includes written tests, endorsements, and driving evaluations.
Freight Handling & Logistics
Drivers learn cargo loading, securing, and weight distribution. Training includes DOT regulations, hazardous materials (HAZMAT), and electronic logging device (ELD) usage.
Vehicle Systems & Maintenance
Drivers learn basic truck mechanics, including engine systems, brakes, transmissions, and troubleshooting. Training covers pre-trip inspections, routine maintenance, and emergency repairs.
Defensive & Safe Driving Techniques
Students practice hazard awareness, accident prevention, and safe driving in various conditions. Training includes maneuvering, braking techniques, and managing blind spots.
Trip Planning & Navigation
Students develop route planning skills using maps, GPS, and trip logs. Training covers fuel efficiency, time management, and compliance with hours-of-service regulations.
Career Development & Industry Regulations
Students gain knowledge of trucking laws, driver rights, and employment opportunities. Training includes job search strategies, employer expectations, and advancement opportunities in the trucking industry.
Students prepare for the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) exam, covering regulations, vehicle inspections, and road safety. Training includes written tests, endorsements, and driving evaluations.
Drivers learn basic truck mechanics, including engine systems, brakes, transmissions, and troubleshooting. Training covers pre-trip inspections, routine maintenance, and emergency repairs.
Students practice hazard awareness, accident prevention, and safe driving in various conditions. Training includes maneuvering, braking techniques, and managing blind spots.
Drivers learn cargo loading, securing, and weight distribution. Training includes DOT regulations, hazardous materials (HAZMAT), and electronic logging device (ELD) usage.
Students develop route planning skills using maps, GPS, and trip logs. Training covers fuel efficiency, time management, and compliance with hours-of-service regulations.
Students gain knowledge of trucking laws, driver rights, and employment opportunities. Training includes job search strategies, employer expectations, and advancement opportunities in the trucking industry.
What Could I Earn?
National median annual pay (2023) for truck drivers in the top industries in which they worked were as follows
$57,830
Truck transportation
$52,700
Wholesale trade
$51,090
Manufacturing
$51,080
Construction
What Skills Are Important?
Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver
Valid Driver's License
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
65,580
A valid driver's license is an official documentation that certifies an individual's ability to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. It is issued by a government agency after an individual passes a driving test and meets certain requirements such as age, vision, and knowledge of traffic laws.
Customer Service
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
59,655
Customer service is essential across industries, involving clear communication to address customer needs, resolve issues, and provide prompt, professional support. Key traits include patience, empathy, and product knowledge, fostering satisfaction, loyalty, and lasting relationships.
Truck Driving
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
87,570
Truck driving is a specialized skill that requires training, road regulation knowledge, and skill in operating large vehicles safely. Drivers handle long hours, tough terrain, and weather, ensuring timely goods delivery, making them vital to the logistics industry.
CDL Class A License
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
77,422
A CDL Class A License is a certification obtained by drivers to operate commercial vehicles over 26,000 lbs or tow trailers over 10,000 lbs, like tractor-trailers and tankers. It requires passing driving skills, safety knowledge, and written and practical exams.
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
# of Trailing 5 Month Job Postings:
69,501
A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a certification that allows individuals to operate CMVs like tractor-trailers and buses. It requires training, testing, and eligibility, essential for careers in the transportation industry.
How Are Job Postings Trending?
Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver
What Industries Are Experiencing Growth?
Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver
Truck Transportation
56,377
Postings
64%
Change from last year
Administrative and Support Services
6,922
Postings
29%
Change from last year
Support Activities for Transportation
3,103
Postings
16%
Change from last year
Waste Management and Remediation Services
2,819
Postings
-7%
Change from last year
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
2,597
Postings
-20%
Change from last year
Merchant Wholesalers, Nondurable Goods
2,418
Postings
-43%
Change from last year
Merchant Wholesalers, Durable Goods
1,900
Postings
-38%
Change from last year
Couriers and Messengers
1,638
Postings
42%
Change from last year
Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
1,572
Postings
-3%
Change from last year
Sporting Goods, Hobby, Musical Instrument, Book, and Miscellaneous Retailers
1,552
Postings
-63%
Change from last year
What Industries Are Experiencing Growth?
Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver
Top Companies
Where Are The Top Companies Hiring?
Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver
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