If you’re thinking about a career change, trucking might be right for you. But what does it take to become a truck driver? Here’s what you need to know about Class A CDL training.
BECOMING A TRUCK DRIVER: THE BASICS
Truck driving is a challenging and rewarding career, and it’s one that can pay off big. However, before you can become a trucker, you’ll have to meet several requirements. You’ll need to:
- Attend a truck driving school for your Class A CDL training
- Maintain a clean driving record
- Be at least 21 years old
- Pass a drug test
- Have a physical exam
- Pass a Functional Capacity Evaluation
Let’s take a closer look at each.
#1. ATTEND A TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL
To become a Class A CDL driver, you’ll have to attend an accredited truck driving school. When you go to school, you’ll work toward earning your commercial driving license or Class A CDL. If you already have a CDL, you may still need to go through a finishing program, particularly if you have fewer than 6 months of experience driving a tractor-trailer.
#2. MAINTAIN A CLEAN DRIVING RECORD
While most truck driving schools require you to have a clean driving record when you get into the program, you’ll also have to maintain a clean driving record for the duration of your career. In this industry, safety is a priority.
#3. BE AT LEAST 21 YEARS OLD
You must be at least 18 years old to get a CDL – that’s a federal requirement. However, if you want to drive across state lines, you must be at least 21 years old according to 49 CFR 391.11. (You can be 18, 19 or 20, depending on your state’s laws, to drive only within your state.)
#4. PASS A DRUG TEST
Because driving a truck is a huge responsibility – and safety is on the line – you’ll have to pass a drug test before you can get your CDL. Additionally, CDL drivers must be randomly tested throughout the year to ensure they’re not using illicit drugs that could impair or inhibit their ability to drive safely. There are several other instances in which you could be subjected to drug testing, as well, such as after an accident or when your employer has a reasonable suspicion that you’ve been using drugs.
#5. HAVE A PHYSICAL EXAM
You’ll have to pass a medical exam to get your CDL and become a truck driver. During a Department of Transportation physical, your doctor will check your:
- Vital signs (such as your pulse and blood pressure)
- Vision
- Hearing
- Urine (both for drugs and for things like blood, sugar or protein, which can indicate dangerous health problems)
- Your overall health