So, you’ve decided you want to break into the trucking business and work as a driver. You may be looking forward to an exciting lifestyle of waking up in a new city every morning.

However, if you have no prior trucking experience, you may be wondering how exactly to get started. It may be a bit more challenging, but you can rest assured that as long as you put in the effort, you can land yourself a job that works for you.

It helps to know that there’s currently a shortage of truck drivers, so there definitely are jobs out there just waiting for you to apply!

Get Yourself a CDL

First, it’s mandatory that you get a CDL. What exactly is a CDL? It’s a Commercial Driver’s License, which is required to drive vehicles such as semi-trucks, passenger buses, tractor trailers, and dump trucks.

Before obtaining a CDL, you need a CLP (Commercial Learner’s Permit). You can apply for this at your closest DMV office.

Start Applying for Trucking Jobs Everywhere

Once you’ve gotten your CDL, you can start applying for trucking jobs!

It maybe tempting to focus only on specific types of jobs, but limiting your search so early in your trucking career may not be the best move. Unfortunately, many of the jobs you may initially be attracted to may require at least 2-3 years of experience.

When you’re first starting out, it’s best to apply to as many entry-level positions as you can. Apply to as many carriers and mega carriers as you can. Your first job offers may be to drive trucks that aren’t tractor trailers.

Keep in mind that even if this isn’t your first choice for a job, it’s a good way to get the experience your resume needs. You’ll also get valuable seat time. Eventually, this is going to help you land the bigger and better jobs you really want.

Got any tips for new truck transport drivers? Drop them in the comments below!