5 Ways To Land No Experience Truck Driver Jobs

Getting a job as a truck driver can be challenging, especially for those with no prior experience. The trucking industry is highly competitive, and many companies require applicants to have a certain amount of experience behind the wheel. However, there are ways to increase your chances of landing a no experience truck driver job.

In this article, we'll explore five strategies to help you get hired as a truck driver with no experience. We'll also discuss the benefits of becoming a truck driver, the requirements for getting hired, and the different types of trucking jobs available.

Benefits of Becoming a Truck Driver

Before we dive into the strategies for landing a no experience truck driver job, let's talk about the benefits of becoming a truck driver. Here are some of the advantages of pursuing a career in trucking:

Good compensation: Truck drivers are generally well-paid, with median salaries ranging from $40,000 to over $70,000 per year.
Job security: The demand for truck drivers is high, and the industry is expected to continue growing in the coming years.
Flexibility: Many trucking companies offer flexible scheduling options, including part-time and full-time positions.
Freedom: As a truck driver, you'll have the freedom to be on the open road, traveling to new places and experiencing different parts of the country.

Requirements for Getting Hired

To get hired as a truck driver, you'll need to meet certain requirements. Here are some of the most common requirements:

Age: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a commercial driver's license (CDL).
License: You'll need to obtain a CDL, which requires passing a series of tests and a background check.
Medical certification: You'll need to undergo a medical examination to ensure you're fit to drive a commercial vehicle.
Background check: Many companies require applicants to undergo a background check before hiring.

5 Ways to Land No Experience Truck Driver Jobs

Now that we've discussed the benefits and requirements of becoming a truck driver, let's explore five strategies for landing a no experience truck driver job.

1. Attend a Trucking School

One of the best ways to increase your chances of getting hired as a truck driver with no experience is to attend a trucking school. These schools provide training and certification programs that teach you the skills you need to become a safe and competent driver.

Trucking schools typically offer a range of programs, including:

CDL training: This program teaches you the skills you need to pass the CDL test and obtain your commercial driver's license.
Trucking certification: This program provides certification in a specific type of trucking, such as hazmat or tanker trucking.
Apprenticeships: Some schools offer apprenticeships that allow you to work with an experienced driver and gain hands-on experience.

2. Get a Sponsor

Another way to get hired as a truck driver with no experience is to get a sponsor. Many trucking companies offer sponsorship programs that pay for your CDL training and certification in exchange for a commitment to work for the company for a certain period of time.

To get a sponsor, you'll typically need to apply to a trucking company's sponsorship program and meet certain requirements, such as:

Age: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a sponsorship program.
Education: You may need to have a high school diploma or equivalent to apply.
Background check: You'll need to undergo a background check as part of the application process.

3. Apply to Companies that Hire Inexperienced Drivers

Some trucking companies specialize in hiring inexperienced drivers and providing them with training and certification. These companies often have programs in place to help new drivers get started and succeed in their careers.

To find companies that hire inexperienced drivers, you can search online or check with your local trucking association. Some companies to consider include:

Schneider National
J.B. Hunt Transport Services
Swift Transportation

4. Consider a Lease-to-Own Program

A lease-to-own program is a type of financing option that allows you to lease a truck and eventually own it. These programs are often available to inexperienced drivers and can provide a way to get started in the industry without a lot of upfront costs.

To find a lease-to-own program, you can search online or check with your local trucking association. Some companies to consider include:

Ryder System
Penske Truck Leasing
Navistar International

5. Network and Build Relationships

Finally, networking and building relationships can be a key part of finding a job as a truck driver with no experience. Attend industry events, join online forums and groups, and connect with experienced drivers to learn more about the industry and find job opportunities.

Some ways to network and build relationships include:

Joining online forums and groups, such as Reddit's r/truckers
Attending industry events, such as trucking conferences and job fairs
Connecting with experienced drivers on social media platforms, such as Facebook and LinkedIn

Conclusion

Getting a job as a truck driver with no experience can be challenging, but there are ways to increase your chances of success. By attending a trucking school, getting a sponsor, applying to companies that hire inexperienced drivers, considering a lease-to-own program, and networking and building relationships, you can find a job in the trucking industry and start a new career.

What is the average salary for a truck driver?

The average salary for a truck driver varies depending on experience and location, but median salaries range from $40,000 to over $70,000 per year.

Do I need a CDL to become a truck driver?

Yes, you'll need to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) to become a truck driver. You can get a CDL by passing a series of tests and a background check.

What are some common requirements for getting hired as a truck driver?

Common requirements for getting hired as a truck driver include being at least 21 years old, having a CDL, passing a medical examination, and undergoing a background check.