From new CDL graduates with no experience to seasoned drivers hauling hazardous materials, there’s a wide variety of truck driving jobs out there. Each role comes with its own responsibilities, pay scale, and lifestyle. Understanding the differences can help you choose the best path for your career in trucking.
Types of CDL Driver Jobs
- Entry-Level Truck Driving Jobs
Fresh out of CDL school? Many companies will hire graduates directly, especially if your school is on their approved list. Some provide paid on-the-job training lasting 4–9 weeks. You’ll often start with regional or OTR (over-the-road) routes. Search entry-level trucking jobs.
- Solo Truck Driving Jobs
Solo drivers carry the full responsibility of the load, schedule, and delivery. It can be demanding but offers freedom and independence. Many choose this path for the open road lifestyle. Find solo truck driving jobs.
- Tanker Truck Driving Jobs
Tanker drivers transport bulk liquids such as gasoline, milk, or chemicals. Precision and safety are critical. Some loads require HAZMAT endorsements, while others don’t. Search tanker truck driving jobs.
- HAZMAT Truck Driving Jobs
Transporting hazardous materials requires extra training and a HAZMAT endorsement. Because of the higher responsibility, HAZMAT jobs usually pay more. Some companies even provide paid endorsement training. Find HAZMAT trucking jobs.
- Car Hauler Jobs
Car haulers move vehicles safely and on time for individuals, dealers, or manufacturers. Attention to detail and careful handling are essential, and pay is typically higher than average. Learn more about car hauler jobs.
- Flatbed Truck Driving Jobs
Flatbed drivers haul oversized or irregularly shaped cargo. Securing loads properly and driving carefully is key. Flatbed jobs often pay more and sometimes allow more home time. See flatbed driver jobs.
- Refrigerated Truck Driving Jobs
“Reefer” trucks transport temperature-sensitive goods like food or medicine. Drivers must monitor trailer temperatures during transit. These jobs often involve long hauls. Find refrigerated trucking jobs.
- Sand Hauling Jobs
Frac sand hauling supports the oil and gas industry. Demand is high, and jobs are well-paid, but hours can be irregular. Search sand hauling jobs.
- Dump Truck Driving Jobs
Dump truck drivers haul dirt, gravel, and debris to and from construction sites. Some companies hire with minimal experience, but extra training is valuable. See dump truck driver jobs.
- Hot Shot Trucking Jobs
Hot shot drivers haul time-sensitive loads, often in the oil and gas industry. These jobs require flexibility, reliability, and readiness to hit the road fast. Read about hot shot jobs.
- Lease Purchase Trucking
Lease purchase programs help drivers transition into owner-operators by leasing a truck through their company. Drivers earn steady pay while building ownership. Learn about lease purchase trucking.
- Team Truck Driving Jobs
Team drivers alternate shifts to cover more miles, meaning more earnings potential. It requires strong partnership skills but can be highly rewarding. Search team driver jobs.
Quick Comparison: Types of Truck Driving Jobs
Quick Comparison: Types of Truck Driving Jobs
| Job Type | Typical Pay Range | Lifestyle |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $40,000+ (varies by company) | OTR or regional routes, training period |
| Flatbed | $55,000 – $70,000+ | Higher risk, more home time |
| Reefer | $50,000 – $65,000+ | Long hauls, variable schedules |
| HAZMAT | $60,000 – $75,000+ | Strict safety rules, higher pay |
| Team | $65,000 – $80,000+ | More miles, less personal space |
These are safe average ranges. For the most up-to-date data, see the
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Transportation & Material Moving Occupations.
Quotes from Truck Drivers
“I signed up for Roadmaster out of Fontana, California. I didn’t have to pay a cent of the schooling. A lot of companies will pay your tuition and encourage you to stay.”
“I worked in a factory, and I swore I’d never go back. I like the freedom of trucking—it’s one of the best parts. Every day is different. You’re not punching a clock and doing the same thing over and over.”
Find Truck Driving Jobs
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