FAQs for People Interested in CDL-Related Jobs
If you aren't interested in post-secondary education and want to jump into the workforce right away, you may want to look into the shipping sector. There are a lot of job opportunities for people with a commercial driver's license (CDL). Here are some answers to questions you may have about this career path.
What Are the Benefits of CDL-Related Jobs?
Obviously, you will need special training in order to operate a commercial vehicle, but the great benefit of this career path is many trucking companies will pay for your CDL training as a part of the hiring process.
CDL-related jobs are in demand, and there is good job security. Drivers are needed not only for retail and manufacturing, but you can find driving jobs in utilities, film, aerospace, and science/research & development sectors. According to bls.gov, the median wage of truck drivers is about $48,000. While inexperienced drivers may earn less, you could eventually earn more than $70,000 with experience and additional training.
Some CDL-related jobs also allow for flexibility, which means that you can set your hours and your preferred routes. There is room for growth with this career path as you can continue certification to drive different vehicles of different CDL classes.
What Are the Differences Between CDL Classes?
There isn't a one-size-fits-all CDL license; these permits are broken down into different classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C. If you get certified for Class A CDL jobs, you'll be able to operate vehicles with semi-trailers with two or more axles, such as tractor-trailers, livestock carriers, or flatbeds. People with Class B licenses are able to drive vehicles with greater weights, such as box trucks, school buses, dump trucks, garbage trucks, etc. People with Class C licenses can transport vehicles containing hazardous materials; they are also allowed to carry vehicles with a large number of people. Within these classes, there are subcategories and restrictions depending on the state's certifications. As you can see, there are a lot of different job opportunities within a single CDL class.
What Is Training Like?
When you are doing your CDL training, you'll have class time to go over road rules, vehicle maintenance, and safety precautions, such as EPA regulations. You'll learn how to secure cargo and how to use electronic logging devices, which capture data of the vehicle's location, speed, miles driven, etc. Besides in-class training, you'll have out-of-class training where you will get to practice operating vehicles. During this time, you may get your commercial learner permit, where you can operate a commercial vehicle while supervised by a valid CDL holder. After training, you'll need to take a basic controls test, vehicle inspection test, and road test before you can be certified for your CDL. Each class is different, but it may only take you a month to complete the coursework before you can get your license. And again, some employers may be happy to sponsor or pay for your coursework.
Reach out to a shipping service in your area today to learn more about CDL jobs.