Education experience of a truck driver

Before beginning work as a truck driver, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required to drive large trucks, and a regular driver’s license is required for smaller trucks. Students have several options for their courses and preparation:

• Some high school students can take courses in driver training or automotive mechanics at their school
• Public and private vocational-technical schools also offer tractor-trailer driver training programs
• On-the-job training will help a new truck driver learn the specific responsibilities of his or her job
• Some trucking companies offer 1-2 days of classroom instruction to teach new employees about their responsibilities

To gain their CDL, new truck drivers must undergo CDL training to pass their state’s CDL examination. The test includes a knowledge and skill portion to make sure drivers have well-rounded knowledge about safety and correct truck driving practices.