How to Prepare for Class B Truck Driving Jobs?

Answer 1

A class B truck driver is a commercial driver who holds a class B commercial driver's license, or CDL. A class B CDL allows drivers to operate vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or over. This license also allows drivers to tow vehicles that weigh up to 10,000 pounds. People who hold class B CDLs are qualified to drive delivery trucks, tow trucks, utility trucks and dump trucks.

How to Get Class B Truck Driving Jobs

In order to secure employment, prospective drivers must first get their class B CDL from the Department of Motor Vehicles in their state. The CDL test is broken up into two different sections: the driving test and the general knowledge test. Certain drivers might also have to take additional testing. For example, drivers who wish to tow hazardous waste will need to take a separate test that covers hazardous materials.

In addition to possessing a class B CDL license, most employers require that applicants have their high school diploma or GED. Intrastate drivers must usually be at least 18 years of age, and interstate drivers must be at least 21. However, some employers set their minimum age limit between 21 and 25. Most employers also require applicants to pass a physical exam and a drug test. The last qualification to become a class B truck driver is a clean driving record. Drivers must not have any recent DWIs or an excessive number of moving violations. Because receiving a DWI or a serious moving violation is often grounds for termination, truck drivers must maintain their clean driving record throughout their career.

Job Outlook and Salary

The demand for truck drivers largely depends on the state of the economy. As the economy continues to improve, the demand for class B drivers is expected to rise. Of the different types of truck drivers, long-haul drivers should see the greatest increase in employment opportunities.

In addition to a positive outlook, truck drivers also enjoy decent wages. As of 2008, the median wage for heavy truck drivers was $17.92 an hour. The top 10% earned more than $27 an hour. While new drivers might earn slightly less, there is a lot of room for growth in this industry.