Is getting paid to travel regularly doing something you love your dream job? For many people, becoming a truck driver is one of the few employment positions that have this privilege. Drivers are an essential component of a thriving economy, delivering more than 70 percent of goods throughout the country from almost every industry, from retail and food to manufacturing. Getting a Class A CDL license is the first step toward this rewarding career.
Getting a Commercial Driver’s License
If you don’t already have a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and you are at least 21 years old, the requirements of the application are much the same as with any driver’s license. You must provide your social security number, proof of identity, and residency as well as pass a general CDL knowledge test. There is also the requirement of a vision exam and a Medical Examiner’s Certificate that indicates you are medically able to drive a commercial vehicle.
Attending training courses at a driving school is one of the best ways to learn everything you need to know about driving big rigs. They provide classroom and hands-on, behind-the-wheel instruction to prepare you for life on the road. However, trucking companies may also offer training and hire you after passing the test.
Perspectives of a Good Driver
Many trucking companies, including Duncan and Son Lines, Inc. only hire drivers with experience, which may make it difficult if you have a newly minted Class A CDL License. Learning what it takes to be a professional truck driver and having the right perspective will help:
- Good drivers understand that leaving at the last minute for an appointment is unwise. Anything can happen, from traffic congestion and accidents to a breakdown. Plan for success by allowing plenty of time to get where you’re going.
- Patience is a must and rushing is a waste of time. Hurrying could lead to poor decisions and in the end, it likely won’t make much difference.
- Wear your safety belt. Statistics show that drivers who are securely fastened are less likely to be thrown out of the seat or through the window in a collision. Not only does it keep you safe, but it may also give you more control of your rig.
- Pay attention to your surroundings. Leaving extra space between yourself and the car in front of you allows you to see more of the road and what is unfolding around you. This can give you more time to respond to an unexpected traffic problem, potentially avoiding an accident.
Getting a Truck Driving Job
Chances are, many people are applying for a few open driving jobs at a company, so you want to stand out from the rest. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Create a resume. Most potential drivers will not have one, so including it with the application differentiates you from the others.
- Learn about the company and its history. This can help you understand what they are looking for in a driver and how you can fit into the organization. The information is useful when putting together a cover letter to accompany your resume and during the interview when they ask why you want to work for them.
- Fill out all the fields on the application, including the area for additional comments. This is an ideal place to tell them why you want to be a driver and how well you fit with their philosophy.
- It is best to stay with one company for a solid 12 months to start off your trucking career as bouncing around can be detrimental when applying for a Class A CDL job in the future.
Contact Phoenix Trucking Jobs Today!
At Duncan & Son Lines, Inc, we offer flexibility for our drivers in Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, Phoenix, and along the entire I-10 corridor.
Are you ready to begin an exciting new career as a professional driver? Learn more about us and the Class A CDL jobs available, today!
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