Advice For Truck Drivers Beginning Their Career

Truck driving is more than a job; it’s a lifestyle. Some people are cut out for it, while others aren’t. If staying at home with your spouse and young children matters a lot to you, don’t become a trucker. If seeing America while hauling tons of stuff behind you day after day sounds appealing, consider trucking. A typical trucker may work 70 hours a week.

If you want to be a trucker, be warned that criminal history, alcohol related violations, drug use, a poor driving history (tickets, accidents), an unstable/lack of work history, and health issues may prevent you from working…big trucks require a very stable, safe, clear-headed driver.

To become a professional truck driver requires training, which is done through truck driving schools. These can be private schools, college-run schools, or company sponsored schools. Some take weeks to complete, while others take months. Some are expensive, while others are “free” with the idea that if you do well, you’ll be placed with a trucking company quickly, on your way to a good career in trucking.

Before you pursue trucking, consider that truckers have to deal with constantly changing weather conditions, heavy traffic, and living life “on the road,” sleeping in a small space inside the cab or at motels along the way. It’s kind of like being a rock star without all the fanfare, applause and perks. That said, truckers are very much in-demand and will be in the years to come, and trucking provides an excellent income to those who do it and do it well.

Platinum Drivers is a CDL driver staffing and placement service providing drivers in all areas of Georgia, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. With expertise in the area of recruiting, qualifying, staffing and placing commercial truck drivers, email Platinum Drivers at info@platinumdrivers.com with any questions you might have about a career in trucking.