How To Get Local Truck Driving Job With No Experience

Getting a local truck driving job is a dream come true for many, more especially those with no experience. This is because, out of the many truck driving jobs posted and advertised on the different employment search sites for example, indeed, a given number of years experience is a must.

And due to continued instability in the economy, many companiesin the different industries are downsizing with millions of jobs being lost. Not only does this practice place people out of work, but a shrinking of available jobs also means that those seeking employment have a much more difficult time finding them, especially for those with no experience.

However, a few industries that continue to remain strong and offer solid job opportunities due to their demand in meeting market needs. One such field lies in the trucking industry, where truck drivers are on a high demand. Companies and businesses across the country rely on truckers to deliver products and services which are needed everyday regardless of the economic condition.

Of course, some local trucking jobs are in higher demand and offer better pay and job security than others. Therefore, if you are considering a job as a local trucker with no experience, you will find these 3 tips for landing a job as a trucker a great beginning resource.

3 tips to get a local truck driving job

• Meet qualifications
• Seek the best opportunities
• CDL and experience

Meet Qualifications

The first and most important step in acquiring trucker jobs is to determine if you meet the qualifications. Although qualifications can vary in their rigidness between companies, the best truck driving jobs have more stringent regulations that must be passed to qualify. For example, all truckers are required to take and pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical.

Various health problems can disqualify you from driving trucks as well as use of certain medications. Also, if you have a criminal record, or drug or alcohol violations reflected on your driver’s license, your chances of landing a trucking job are severely reduced.

Seek the Best Opportunities

As mentioned, some types of trucking jobs pay much better than others. OTR (over the road) truck driving jobs normally pay much more than local or limited area positions. This is due to the very long hours involved with OTR jobs, so time away from home and family should be carefully considered.

Big name freight companies as well as many state truck driving positions usually pay higher wages. Specialty truck drivers are also paid more money because they are required to deal with over-sized loads, hazardous materials and other more dangerous content.

CDL and Experience

Before you can land a good trucking job, you will need to obtain your commercial driver’s license (CDL). It is also recommended to acquire some truck driving experience before applying for trucker jobs since a lack of experience will significantly hinder your chances. The best way to obtain both of these important criteria is through good truck driving schools.

There are various private and company-sponsored truck driving schools as well as community college truck driving courses that can meet both needs. Some companies offer free training and most require additional training, usually through hitting the road with a company trainer. However, you should expect to start out at a lower wage if you rely on a company to provide you with experience.

Truck driving jobs are plentiful so you shouldn’t have problems finding them as long as you meet the requirements. However, by utilizing these tips, you can land the best paying and most secure trucker jobs that will significantly boost your standard of living, even in the midst of a staggering economy.