You can get hired as a truck driver without experience, but you must first earn your Commercial Driver's License

Truck driving companies do hire people with no prior driving experience, but they will not hire you without a valid CDL. The sequence is: get your CDL first, then explore for jobs. Some companies will pay for your CDL training as part of hiring you, but you still need to pass the written and skills tests on your own before you can legally drive a commercial vehicle.

The path differs depending on whether a company sponsors your training or you pay for it yourself. Either way, you need a regular driver's license, a clean driving record, and to pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam. Most companies require you to be at least 21 years old to drive across state lines, though some hire 18-year-olds for in-state routes.

Key Takeaways

  • You must obtain a CDL before any truck driving job will hire you, even if the company pays for your training.
  • Company-sponsored training programs are free or low-cost and typically take four to eight weeks, but you commit to working for that company afterward.
  • Independent CDL schools cost $3,000 to $8,000 out of pocket and give you freedom to explore anywhere, but you pay before you earn.
  • A DOT medical certificate and a clean driving record are required before you can even start training.
  • Most entry-level positions start with local or regional routes before moving to long-haul work, and pay varies widely by company and route type.

Company-Sponsored CDL Training Programs

Large trucking companies like Werner, Schneider, Swift, and Heartland Express run their own training programs and hire graduates directly. These programs are free or cost only a few hundred dollars because the company absorbs the training expense. The trade-off is that you sign a contract agreeing to work for that company for a set period—usually 12 to 24 months—or you repay part of the training cost if you leave early.

The training typically lasts four to eight weeks and covers classroom instruction, simulator time, and on-the-road training with a mentor driver. You learn vehicle inspection, safe braking, backing, and how to handle different road conditions. At the end, you take the CDL written test and the skills test (pre-trip inspection, backing, and on-road driving) at your state's testing facility. The company usually coordinates the testing appointment.

Company programs are the lowest-cost entry point if you have no savings. However, you are locked into that employer during your contract period, and if you fail the CDL test, you may owe back some training costs. Ask the company upfront what happens if you do not pass the test on your first attempt.

Independent CDL Schools and Self-Funded Training

If you want to choose your own employer or do not want to commit to a contract, you can attend an independent CDL school and pay out of pocket. These schools charge between $3,000 and $8,000 depending on location and program length. Some offer payment plans or financing options, though interest rates can be high.

Independent schools typically run four to six week programs with similar content to company programs: classroom, simulator, and on-road training. You take the CDL test on your own schedule at your state's testing facility. Once you pass, you can explore to any company without a contract obligation.

The advantage is freedom—you can shop for the best job offer and switch companies without penalty. The disadvantage is upfront cost and risk: if you fail the test, you have spent money with no job to show for it. Some schools offer a retake may provide, so ask about that before enrolling.

What You Need Before You Start Training

Before you can enroll in any CDL program, you need a valid regular driver's license and a clean driving record. Most companies and schools will run a background check and review your last three to five years of driving history. Serious violations like DUIs, reckless driving, or multiple speeding tickets can disqualify you.

You also need to pass a DOT medical exam performed by a certified medical examiner. This exam checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall health. You cannot have certain conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or heart disease. The exam costs $50 to $150 and results in a medical certificate valid for two years. You can find examiners through the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners website.

Some companies require a background check beyond driving history, including criminal history. Felonies, especially those involving drugs or violence, often disqualify you. Ask the company or school directly about their background policy before you invest time or money.

Entry-Level Truck Driving Positions and Pay

Your first job after getting your CDL is usually not long-haul cross-country driving. Most companies start new drivers on local or regional routes—delivering to warehouses, retail stores, or distribution centers within a few hundred miles of a home terminal. These routes let you return home most nights and build experience before moving to longer hauls.

Pay for entry-level drivers varies widely. Some companies pay per mile (typically $0.30 to $0.50 per mile for new drivers), while others pay hourly ($16 to $22 per hour). Long-haul drivers often earn more per mile but spend weeks away from home. Local drivers earn less per mile but work more consistent hours and go home daily. Total annual income for a new driver ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 depending on the company, route type, and how many miles or hours you work.

Many companies offer benefits like health insurance, 401(k) matching, and paid time off after a probation period. Ask about these during the hiring process, as they significantly affect your total compensation.

The CDL Written Test and Skills Test

The CDL written test covers traffic laws, vehicle inspection, safe driving practices, and hazmat rules (if you are pursuing a hazmat endorsement). You must score at least 80 percent to pass. Most training programs include practice tests, and your state's DMV website publishes the official test manual for free.

The skills test has three parts: pre-trip inspection (you walk around the truck and point out safety features), backing (you reverse into a tight space), and on-road driving (an examiner rides with you for 30 to 45 minutes). You must pass all three parts. If you fail one, you can retake just that section in most states, though fees and scheduling vary.

Training programs prepare you for these tests, but passing still requires study and practice. If you fail on your first attempt, you can retake it, but you cannot legally drive a commercial vehicle until you pass.

Common Obstacles and How to Handle Them

One common barrier is the upfront cost if you choose an independent school. If you cannot afford $3,000 to $8,000, a company-sponsored program is your only option. However, company programs are competitive—they receive many applications and may have a waiting list. explore to multiple companies to increase your chances.

Another obstacle is failing the CDL test. If this happens, you can retake it, but there is a fee (usually $50 to $100 per attempt) and a waiting period between attempts. Some states allow you to retake it within days; others require a week or more. If you fail multiple times, consider additional training or a different school before trying again.

A third barrier is a medical condition that fails the DOT exam. If you are denied, you can request a second opinion from another certified examiner, or in some cases, explore for a waiver. Talk to your doctor about any health concerns before scheduling the exam so you know what to expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a high school diploma or GED to become a truck driver?

Most companies require a high school diploma or GED, though some will hire without it if you pass a basic skills test. Check with the specific company or school before enrolling in training. If you do not have a diploma, ask whether the company will accept a GED or an alternative qualification.

How long does it take to get a CDL if I have no experience?

Training programs typically take four to eight weeks. After that, you take the CDL test, which can be scheduled within days or weeks depending on your state's testing availability. From start to first job is usually two to three months if you pass the test on your first attempt.

Can I get a truck driving job if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the offense and how long ago it occurred. Felonies involving drugs, violence, or fraud often disqualify you permanently. Misdemeanors may be acceptable if they are old enough. Contact companies directly and ask about their background policy before investing in training. Some companies are more lenient than others.

What happens if I fail the CDL test?

You can retake it after paying a fee and waiting the required time (varies by state). If you are in a company-sponsored program, ask whether they cover retake fees or offer additional training. If you fail multiple times, consider getting more training before trying again rather than repeatedly paying test fees.

Do truck drivers need to pass a drug test?

Yes. All companies require a pre-employment drug test, and drivers are subject to random testing throughout employment. This is a federal requirement for commercial drivers. If you use any substances, you must be clean before explore.