Have you ever considered becoming a big rig truck driver? If so, you’ve chosen a career avenue that you’ll likely discover is in high demand. Those who earn their livings as OTR drivers enjoy the opportunity to see the country and meet new people with each trip. There are both state and federal guidelines truckers must adhere to and depending on which state you reside in, you may be required to have specific certifications, says Hound.com founder A. Harrison Barnes.
This is also one of those careers that a person either loves or hates; there’s rarely anything in between. You must be able to withstand the long hours behind the wheel and it can be an isolating experience, as well. That said, those who don’t mind being alone can realistically expect to earn an impressive salary. The Hound.com founder says you’re afforded flexibility as a truck driver, too. With so many companies that offer different perks, you can define your own working hours, at least to some degree. Some don’t mind working through the weekend, others prefer to be home with their families and still, there are those who want to be home every night. A. Harrison Barnes says, “Before you can enjoy those flexible working hours, you must have the proper documentation and certification”. Here are a few of the universal requirements. Remember, though, state and federal laws differ and what may be required in one state might not be applicable in another; however, you still need to follow every state’s law that you travel through.
“ Generally, drivers must be at least 21 years of age.
“ He must meet the physical requirements set forth by both his employer and state or federal laws.
“ He will be required to be certified and these certifications will vary depending on what he hauls.
“ He must be aware of the law – both local laws and federal guidelines.
“ Must have a commercial driver’s license, or CDL.
“ Must be able to pass drug and alcohol testing
“ Must have a clean driving record with no DUIs or DWIs
“ If a truck driver hauls hazardous material, he will likely need a security clearance from the government.
As mentioned, this is a brief rundown of what a truck driver might be required to provide. Truck companies will have their own guidelines and safety procedures and you will be required to understand and remain in compliance at all times. Even with the regulations the trucking industry is accountable to, most driving schools can have candidates ready in weeks, thereby allowing you to earn a living a lot faster than other job choices.
Barnes, who is also a renowned career coach, says there are many jobs available right now for those wishing to pursue this career path and many of those jobs can be found on the award winning site, Hound.com.
For those who love driving these big trucks, there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing the roads unwind in front of him and those places he’s just visited in his rearview mirror.
