3 answers
Eric
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
3
Questions
Asked
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How much training do I need to complete to be a Heavy Truck Driver ?
I'm in 10th grade and I want to know how much training I need to have before I can do heavy Truck driver. I really want to have this job because it is something I would enjoy doing for my job in the future.
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3 answers
Hassan Al
Product Management Professional
398
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Hassan’s Answer
https://mn.gov/elicense/a-z/?id=1083-231305#/list/appId//filterType//filterValue//page/1/sort//order/ lists the commercial truck drivers license for MN. There are many driving schools that will help you get a that license https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/forms-documents/Documents/LicensedTruckDriverTrainingList.pdf has the offical list. Some are going to be more expensive than others. For example https://www.minnstate.edu/employersolutions/training/cdlacademy/getstartedCDL.html costs $6,000.
I'd suggest that you thoroughly research the job and pay prospects for this profession. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes533032.htm has some interesting stats. If you're working for a good company then this maybe be a good profession but job prospects/security will vary widely based on economic condition and gas prices.
I'd suggest that you thoroughly research the job and pay prospects for this profession. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes533032.htm has some interesting stats. If you're working for a good company then this maybe be a good profession but job prospects/security will vary widely based on economic condition and gas prices.
Joe Kennedy
Consulting
11
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Joe’s Answer
Hi Eric,
I found the following advice to future truck drivers:
To become a semi-truck driver, start by meeting the age requirements (usually 18 or 21 years old) and ensuring you have a clean driving record and a valid driver's license. Obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) by passing the CDL exam, which includes a written test and a skills test. Passing a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam is also necessary. Consider attending a truck driving school for proper training and practical experience. Gain on-road experience, typically around one to two years, and explore specialization options if desired, such as handling hazardous materials or oversized loads, which may require additional certifications. Once you have the necessary qualifications, start your job search for truck driving positions, ranging from local to long-haul routes.
I hope this helps!
I found the following advice to future truck drivers:
To become a semi-truck driver, start by meeting the age requirements (usually 18 or 21 years old) and ensuring you have a clean driving record and a valid driver's license. Obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) by passing the CDL exam, which includes a written test and a skills test. Passing a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical exam is also necessary. Consider attending a truck driving school for proper training and practical experience. Gain on-road experience, typically around one to two years, and explore specialization options if desired, such as handling hazardous materials or oversized loads, which may require additional certifications. Once you have the necessary qualifications, start your job search for truck driving positions, ranging from local to long-haul routes.
I hope this helps!
Tracy Swift, RDH, BSDH, MEd
Assistant Professor
4
Answers
Albany, Georgia
Updated
Tracy’s Answer
Your best bet is to enroll in a technical college that offers CDL training. The courses are typically 6 to 8 weeks and most will help you find a job. With a CDL, you will never have trouble finding a job anywhere across the US. Keep in mind to protect your driving record. Any speeding tickets or DUI's can directly affect you obtaining a o job driving a truck. They want a clean driving record. My husband has been a heavy haul driver owner/operator for 25 years.