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Skilled Trades

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

Hard to stack (rarely part-time)

Drive a tractor-trailer combination or a truck with a capacity of at least 26,001 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). May be required to unload truck. Requires commercial drivers' license. Includes tow truck drivers.

Median salary

$57,440

Typical range

$39k – $79k

Job outlook

+4% (faster than average)

AI exposure

Plan a path to Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

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Education

Typical entry: No degree required

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How to qualify

License required

Cost to qualify

$3,250–$10,600

Time to qualify

2 mo

Renewal

$25/yr

  1. 1

    CDL training program (ELDT)

    Course

    Entry-Level Driver Training from a registered provider.

    $3,000–$10,000 · 7 weeks source

  2. 2

    DOT medical card + background

    Background check

    DOT physical and background screening.

    $100–$200 · 2 weeks source

  3. 3

    CDL knowledge + skills test

    Exam

    Written knowledge test and behind-the-wheel skills exam.

    $50–$200 · 2 weeks · varies by state source

  4. 4

    Class A Commercial Driver's License

    License

    Issued by your state DMV.

    $100–$200 · 1 weeks · varies by state · renews every 4 yr source

Which occupations require a license and in which states: CareerOneStop License Finder (U.S. DOL). Costs/hours are curated estimates that vary by state and change — see each step's official source.

Typical progression

  1. Junior Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

    Entry / Junior

    $38,640

    ~2 yrs to advance

  2. Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

    Established

    $57,440

    ~3 yrs to advance

  3. Senior Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

    Senior

    $68,120

Key skills

A typical day

  • •Check all load-related documentation for completeness and accuracy.
  • •Inspect loads to ensure that cargo is secure.
  • •Check vehicles to ensure that mechanical, safety, and emergency equipment is in good working order.
  • •Crank trailer landing gear up or down to safely secure vehicles.
  • •Obtain receipts or signatures for delivered goods and collect payment for services when required.

Fields of study

Any field

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