Breaking into the trucking industry isn’t as simple as showing up, filling out a job application, and driving away in a truck a couple hours later. Instead, it’s full of many different tests to ensure that you are ready for trucking life and all of the dangers it contains. Here is our basic guide to getting into the trucking industry.
Many people wonder if the trucking life is right for them and don’t know where to begin their research.
You’re Not Sure Yet
If you aren’t sure whether or not you want to live the trucking life yet, do as much research as possible online and talk to actual truck drivers about their lives. Several things can totally rule out the career path for you, including:
- More than 2 tickets on your driving record within the past three years
- A DUI or DWI in your recent history (every company has a different policy concerning how long ago it needs to be)
- A felony in your recent history (again, most companies have different policies about how long the waiting period after conviction needs to be)
- Very low credit that may change your ability to get a loan for private trucking school or cover your expenses
- The inability to pass the DOT-mandated physical every two years
- Taking any medication that is shown to impair the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle
- Methadone use
- Anti-seizure medication
- Insulin-treated diabetics (need to obtain an exception)
Getting the Qualifications
If you don’t fall under any of those exemptions, you’ll need to start getting the qualifications necessary for a career in the trucking industry. These qualifications often include a CDL or Commercial Driver’s License. Depending on what you want to drive, you may need a specific class of CDL or no CSL at all.
Like we said above, anyone wanting to drive vehicles over 10,000 lbs. needs to pass a DOT (Department of Transportation) mandated physical examination every two years. High blood pressure, physical limitations, insulin-treated diabetes, poor hearing, and failing a drug test can all prohibit you from living the trucking life. Once the physical is completed, it will be a part of your permanent driving record for the state.
For All of Your Trucking Needs
Evan Transportation provides trucking and transportation services for clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. All of our drivers and staff are offered competitive salaries, benefits, and are guaranteed to be home every day. Interested in finding out more? Visit us online or give us a call at 443-673-3365. For even more information, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and Google+.