What Target's CDL positions are and where they appear
Target operates distribution centers, fulfillment centers, and regional logistics hubs across the United States. These facilities move merchandise from suppliers to stores and handle online orders. Many of these roles require a commercial driver's license (CDL) — specifically a Class A or Class B CDL depending on the vehicle weight and cargo type.
Target posts CDL driving roles under titles like "Truck Driver," "Distribution Center Driver," "Logistics Driver," or "Regional Driver." These are not store-level positions; they are warehouse and transportation jobs. You will find them on Target's careers website under the "Distribution & Logistics" or "Transportation" category, not under retail or store operations.
The actual availability of CDL positions varies by region and season. Target's hiring needs for drivers tend to increase during peak retail periods (September through December) and during major logistics expansions. Some distribution centers hire year-round; others post positions only when a facility opens or expands.
Key Takeaways
- Target's CDL jobs are in distribution centers and logistics hubs, not retail stores, and you must search the careers website under Transportation or Logistics categories.
- You need a valid Class A or Class B CDL before you explore — Target does not sponsor CDL training or pay for licensing.
- The hiring process includes a background check, medical certification (DOT physical), and a driving record review that can take four to eight weeks.
- Pay and benefits vary by location and facility, but Target typically offers health insurance, 401(k) matching, and paid time off for full-time drivers.
- Target uses a third-party background screening company, and disqualifying factors include serious traffic violations, DUIs, and certain criminal convictions within a set timeframe.
CDL requirements Target enforces before hiring
Target will not hire you into a CDL position without a valid, current commercial driver's license. You must hold the license before you submit your process — Target does not pay for CDL training, testing, or licensing fees. If you do not yet have your CDL, you will need to obtain it through a private CDL training school or your state's Department of Motor Vehicles program.
Your CDL must be clean enough to pass Target's background review. Target uses a third-party screening vendor to review your driving record. Disqualifying factors typically include a DUI or DWI conviction within the past five to seven years, reckless driving convictions, multiple moving violations in a short period, or a suspended or revoked license. The exact lookback period varies by state and by Target's current policy, so you should request your own driving record from your state's DMV before you explore.
You will also need to pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination. This is a physical exam performed by a certified medical examiner and includes vision, hearing, blood pressure, and drug screening. Target typically arranges this exam after you receive a conditional job offer, but you should know that certain medical conditions — uncontrolled diabetes, severe sleep apnea, or a history of seizures — can disqualify you from holding a valid medical certificate.
How to find Target CDL openings on the careers website
Go to Target's careers portal at target.com/careers. Use the search or filter options to narrow by job category. Look for "Distribution," "Logistics," "Transportation," or "Warehouse" categories — not retail or store operations. You can also filter by location if you know which distribution center or region you want to work in.
Search terms that work include "CDL," "truck driver," "driver," "distribution center driver," or "logistics driver." Target's job titles are not always consistent across postings, so try multiple search terms. Once you find a posting that matches your location and experience level, read the full job description to confirm the CDL class required (Class A or Class B) and any additional certifications like hazmat or tanker endorsements.
If no positions are currently posted in your area, you can set up a job alert on Target's careers site. This will notify you by email when new CDL or logistics positions are posted in your chosen location. You can also contact the distribution center directly — the phone number is usually listed on the job posting — and ask about upcoming hiring or when the next round of driver recruitment will begin.
The process and screening process timeline
Target's hiring process for CDL positions typically follows this order: online process, phone screening, in-person interview, background check, DOT medical exam, and final offer. The entire process usually takes four to eight weeks, though it can be faster or slower depending on how quickly you respond and how busy the facility is.
When you submit your online process, you will enter your work history, CDL information, and basic background details. Target's system will flag any obvious disqualifiers (such as a license suspension you disclose). If you pass this initial screen, a recruiter or hiring manager will call you for a brief phone interview — usually 15 to 20 minutes — to confirm your availability, experience, and interest in the role.
If the phone screen goes well, you will be invited to an in-person interview at the distribution center or a local Target office. This interview typically involves one or two managers and focuses on your driving experience, safety record, and ability to work the shift (many CDL roles involve early mornings, nights, or weekends). After the interview, Target will initiate the background check through its third-party vendor. This is when your driving record, criminal history, and employment history are reviewed in detail.
Once the background check clears, Target will schedule your DOT medical exam. You will be given a list of approved medical examiners in your area. After you pass the medical exam and the examiner issues your medical certificate, Target will extend a formal job offer. You will then receive your start date and onboarding instructions.
What disqualifies you from Target CDL positions
Target's background screening process looks at both your driving record and your criminal history. A DUI or DWI conviction within the past five to seven years is typically disqualifying. Multiple moving violations (speeding, reckless driving, failure to obey traffic signals) within a short period — such as three or more in two years — can also result in rejection. A suspended or revoked license at any point in the past five years is usually a hard stop.
Criminal convictions can disqualify you depending on the type and how recent. Felony convictions, particularly those involving violence, theft, or fraud, are typically disqualifying if they occurred within the past seven to ten years. Misdemeanor convictions for DUI, drug possession, or theft may also disqualify you. Target does not publish a detailed disqualification matrix, so if you have a criminal or driving record concern, you can contact Target's recruiting department before you explore and ask whether your specific situation would be reviewed.
Failing the DOT medical exam will also end the hiring process. This can happen if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, untreated diabetes, severe sleep apnea, a history of seizures, or certain vision or hearing problems. If you have a known medical condition, you may want to consult with a DOT-certified medical examiner before you explore to understand whether you will be able to obtain a medical certificate.
Pay, benefits, and typical working conditions
Target's pay for CDL drivers varies by location, facility, and experience level. Hourly rates typically range from $18 to $28 per hour, depending on whether the role is local delivery, regional over-the-road, or distribution center dock work. Newer drivers usually start at the lower end; drivers with several years of experience or specialized endorsements (hazmat, tanker) may earn more. Target's website or the job posting should list the pay range for the specific position you are interested in.
Full-time CDL drivers at Target receive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), a 401(k) retirement plan with company matching, paid time off, and life insurance. Part-time drivers may have limited benefits depending on hours worked. Many distribution centers also offer shift differentials — extra pay for working nights, weekends, or holidays.
Working conditions depend on the specific role. Distribution center drivers may load and unload trucks, operate forklifts, or manage inventory in addition to driving. Regional or over-the-road drivers spend significant time away from home and work irregular hours. Local delivery drivers typically work daytime hours and return home each night. Most positions require you to pass a pre-employment drug screen and submit to random drug testing during employment.
Alternatives if you do not yet have your CDL
If you are interested in working for Target but do not yet have your CDL, you have a few options. You can pursue CDL training through a private CDL school, which typically costs $3,000 to $7,000 and takes four to eight weeks. Some schools offer job placement information or partnerships with trucking companies, though Target does not have a formal partnership with most schools.
Alternatively, you can start in a non-CDL warehouse or distribution role at Target — such as a dock worker, material handler, or forklift operator — and work toward your CDL while employed. Some employees use this path to gain warehouse experience and save money for CDL training. Target does not pay for the training, but you would have stable income and benefits while you pursue it.
You can also check whether your state offers CDL training programs through community colleges or workforce development agencies. These programs are often lower-cost than private schools and may include job placement services. Some states also offer CDL training grants or subsidies for workers in certain industries or income brackets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need hazmat or tanker endorsements to work as a driver at Target?
Not always. Most Target distribution center and regional driver roles require only a Class A or Class B CDL. Hazmat and tanker endorsements are needed only for specific positions that handle hazardous materials or liquid cargo. The job posting will specify if these endorsements are required. If they are not listed as required, you do not need them to explore.
What happens if I fail the DOT medical exam?
If you fail the medical exam, Target will not hire you for the CDL position. You can reapply after you address the medical issue — for example, by getting your blood pressure under control or treating sleep apnea — and obtaining a new medical certificate from a DOT examiner. You may want to consult with a medical examiner before reapplying to understand what needs to change.
How long does the background check take?
Background checks typically take two to three weeks, though it can be faster or slower depending on how quickly your state's DMV and court records are retrieved. Target will contact you if they need additional information or clarification. You can follow up with the recruiter if you have not heard back after three weeks.
Can I work for Target as a driver if I have an old DUI on my record?
It depends on how old the DUI is and Target's current policy. Most DUIs within the past five to seven years are disqualifying. If your DUI is older than that, you may still be considered, but it will be reviewed as part of the background check. Contact Target's recruiting department before you explore if you want to know whether your specific situation would be reviewed.
Does Target offer CDL training or pay for licensing?
No. Target requires you to hold a valid CDL before you explore. The company does not sponsor CDL training, pay for testing fees, or reimburse licensing costs. You must obtain your CDL through a private school, your state's DMV program, or a community college before you submit your process.