Truck drivers play an essential role in our economy. Just about everything people buy gets hauled across the country on a tractor-trailer. That’s why commercial drivers are constantly in demand. However, trucking isn’t just about sitting behind the wheel, traveling the country. It takes a lot of training, discipline, and lifestyle adjustments to drive a truck.
Before investing your time and money into getting your commercial driver’s license (CDL), consider the following factors to see if this career truly aligns with your goals.
1. You’ll need to prioritize safety
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 5,788 people were killed – and 155,000 were injured – in large truck crashes in 2021 alone. As a truck driver, you’ll have to be alert at all times to monitor the road, traffic patterns, weather changes, and mechanical issues to stay as safe as possible.
Because of the size and weight of the vehicles involved, commercial truck driving comes with a massive responsibility to drive safely at all times. Tractor-trailers can weigh up to 80,000 pounds fully loaded, and even the smallest mistake on the road can have serious consequences.
Although the company you work for can be held legally responsible for any accidents you cause, there’s still a chance you might be individually sued. There’s also a good chance an accident will get you fired. Truck accident lawsuit settlements can be large, and trucking companies won’t keep drivers who are liabilities. If you really want to drive trucks for a living, you’ll need to keep safety at the top of your mind at all times.
2. You will experience fatigue
There’s no way around it. Driving a large truck for long hours will make you tired and more prone to accidents. Federal regulations limit driving hours to reduce this danger, but limited hours don’t eliminate fatigue. You might get tired after driving just a few hours.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Hours of Service rules limit freight drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty. To make this work, you’ll need to figure out how to manage your sleep schedule, nutrition, and rest breaks to stay alert while on the road.
If you struggle to drive for six hours on a casual road trip once a year, you should probably rethink driving commercial trucks.
3. CDL training requires a commitment of time and money
Once you decide to get your CDL, you’ll need to go through extensive training and pass comprehensive written and road exams before you can start driving. Your training structure will depend on what school you attend but most take 6-7 weeks to complete. You’ll learn a lot during that time, like federal regulations, safety procedures, cargo loading and handling, how to drive your truck, trip planning, how to inspect your truck, and advanced driving techniques.
Most CDL schools cost between $3,000 and $7,000, and some trucking companies offer paid training or tuition reimbursement as long as you work for the company for a set period after you graduate.
4. A DUI can revoke your CDL
If you are convicted of a DUI – even while driving your personal vehicle – you’ll lose your commercial driver’s license. Even if it’s just a one-year suspension, you’ll probably get fired. Depending on your state, you might be disqualified from obtaining a CDL for the rest of your life.
5. Trucking can be grueling
Although the pay can be decent even at entry level, many drivers report being pushed past their limits by their employers. Delivery schedules can be extremely tight, and many drivers report being unable to meet their deadlines without violating Hours of Service laws. Even though many trucking companies have been caught and prosecuted for this behavior, it’s still common in the industry. If you’re going to be a truck driver, be ready to thoroughly research potential employers and be willing to walk away from companies that force you to disregard safety.
6. You’ll spend most of your time away from home
Trucking is perfect for people who don’t have a family or other obligations that require them to be in one spot for long periods of time. Driving a truck isn’t the best choice if you have young children or a spouse. However, it’s great if you enjoy being on the road and don’t mind an irregular work schedule.
Is truck driving right for you?
Getting your CDL to drive trucks across the country can be a stable source of income but it comes with serious responsibility. If you’re willing to drive long hours, sleep at random truck stops, and spend most of your time away from home, trucking can be a rewarding career.