subject: Factors to Consider to be a Truck Driver [print this page] Being a truck driver is not a simple job as many others might think. It is one demanding job and a truck driver must have a strong sense of independence and self-reliance. Most of the time a truck driver is working far from home and family that's why he should also be ready for that situation. He should also have a strong body and mind and he should be emotionally strong as well. A good truck driver must also be good in decision making and should know how to deal with things that he may encounter along the road alone.
If you possess those characteristics you are already one step ahead to a truck driving career. Here are some of the other things that you should consider before building a career on truck driving.
Age Factor
Age is one of the biggest factors in truck driving. You can start at age 18 if you will just be driving within the state where you live and you must be 21 if you wish to drive for interstate, But due to some insurance issues, some companies prefer to hire those who are at least 23 years of age.
CDL Training
If you are planning to start a career in truck driving, the first thing that you should have is your CDL or the Commercial Driver's License. This will be your passes to enter the trucking industry because this license will allow you to drive an 18-wheeler vehicle.
You can obtain your CDL by attending training in a certified truck driving school and must pass the knowledge and skill tests give by the authority. You might also consider taking an endorsement test for tankers, double/triple trailers and hazardous materials which will allow you to operate those particular vehicles and carry those kinds of materials.
Truck Driving School
The primary objective of a truck driving school is to ensure that you will learn all the things that you have to know about truck driving especially maneuvering an 18-wheeler as well as driving in all road condition and of course for you to pass the driving skills exam.
There are lots of different driving schools around. It is important that you choose a school which has solid basic CDL preparatory classes. Remember that the classroom instruction is the basis upon which your career will be built. You should be careful in choosing a truck driving school to attend and make sure that it is recognized and certified truck driving school that meets the training standard of the trucking industry.
Truck Driving Skill Exam
After you chose the truck driving school to attend training, you are now ready to undergo the driving skills exam. At this point, you will need to show all the things that you have learned from your training including your knowledge in pre-trip inspection, ensuring the safety of your vehicle before you go out on the road, as well as how to carry out an airbrake tests. You will also need to show your skills on driving like proper maneuvering, backing, parking and so on.
After you have attend the CDL training in a certified truck driving school and pass the truck driving skill exam, you are now ready to build a career on truck driving and drive your way to success.
