Thinking of getting a driver’s job, but not sure if you need a CDL? There are some types of driving jobs in the U.S. that do not require a commercial driver’s license (CDL), but it is a requirement for almost all professional truck driving jobs. When you have A CDL, you have a key that can open plenty of doors to professional opportunities.
A CDL is a special driver’s license that is a federal requirement for anyone operating any type of vehicle weighing 10,001 or more pounds for commercial use, that transports quantities of hazardous materials that require warning signs on the vehicle or that is designed to transport 9 or more passengers (including the driver) for compensation or 16 or more passengers (including the driver) for non-compensation. This includes, but is not limited to tow trucks, tractor trailers and buses. Although there are Federal guidelines in place for obtaining a CDL, each state has its own set of application procedures and training regulations.
Before implementation of the CDL Program in 1986, licensing requirements for driving larger vehicles and buses varied from state to state. Many drivers were operating motor vehicles that they may not have been properly trained or qualified to drive. This lack of standardized training resulted in a large number of preventable traffic deaths and accidents. The Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 was intended to ensure that truck drivers and drivers of tractor trailers and buses are qualified to drive Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMVs), and to remove drivers that are unsafe and unqualified from the highways.
There are various types of CDL licenses, depending on the vehicle being operated and what it is carrying:
You can legally get your CDL without attending a legitimate truck driving school, but it is very hard to get a good job with a CDL that is not from a recognized school. You’ll find many more opportunities if you get your training through a company-sponsored CDL training program or a private truck driving school.
One of the best job opportunities for a CDL driver is working for a staffing company. Different from a temp agency, staffing companies offer more stability, flexibility, competitive compensation packages that include good benefits, paid time off and long-term assignments. When you work for a staffing company, you can expect to work for a much longer period of time, often on regular runs that last a year or more. Plus, with well-run staffing companies, you get the luxury of being able to decide when and where you want to work. You can choose your schedule so that you get more time at home, more weekends off, and the ability to take care of your family while working full-time. They should also care about your safety and should be proud to show you their safety record.
At TransForce, we find out what YOUR dream assignment is and match you to a great run. Qualified CDL drivers can find rewarding job opportunities with TransForce Driver Staffing Solutions.
With over 100,000 CDL jobs available annually, TransForce Group is the #1 choice for drivers. Create your profile now to start receiving alerts for jobs that match your personal and professional goals.