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Truck Driver (CDL)

Truck drivers move the goods the whole country depends on. A short CDL program leads to solid pay and steady demand, and many drivers eventually own their own rig.

Median Salary
$58,640/yr
Typical Range
$40,140 – $79,380
Job Outlook
As fast as average

What does a Truck Driver (CDL) do?

  • Drive long or regional routes safely
  • Inspect the truck and secure cargo
  • Keep logs and follow federal driving rules
  • Load, unload, and coordinate deliveries

Education & training

High school diploma plus a commercial driver's license (CDL)

How to become a Truck Driver (CDL)

  1. Graduate high school (must usually be 18–21+ depending on routes)
  2. Complete a CDL training program (a few weeks)
  3. Pass the CDL exam and get any endorsements you need
  4. Apply with trucking and delivery companies

Skills that help

FocusResponsibilityIndependenceTime management

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National wage figures via O*NET Web Services. This application incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Figures are national estimates and vary by state, employer, and experience.

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