With 336 truck driving schools available in the US as of 2023 (and increasing demand for truck divers), there’s never been a better time to consider this career path. These schools are essential for those looking to join the truck driving industry, offering the necessary training and skills.
Interestingly, California, Florida, and Texas lead the nation with the highest number of truck driver schools, highlighting the vibrant trucking industry in these states. In this blog, we’ll share ten reasons why attending a truck driving school can be a wise decision for your future.
These schools serve as a launchpad for a secure and rewarding career and are instrumental in teaching specialized skills and enhancing your chances of employment in the industry. So, let’s explore the myriad benefits and opportunities these schools offer that will eventually help you make an enlightened decision regarding your educational and career paths.
10 Advantages of Enrolling in Truck Driving Schools
Quick Career Entry
Truck driving schools offer a fast track to employment, with courses often completed within weeks. This expedited learning process allows students to swiftly acquire a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and enter the workforce. These schools present an ideal solution for individuals seeking immediate employment without the lengthy commitment to traditional education paths. The quick career entry is particularly beneficial for those who need to start earning without delay, providing a seamless transition from student to professional driver.
Decent pay
The truck driving profession is known for its competitive salaries. Even entry-level drivers can expect to earn a substantial income, with the promise of salary increases as they garner more experience and secure additional endorsements.
Experienced drivers, in some cases, take home over $1,00,000 per year, showcasing the financial stability and lucrative prospects associated with this career. The promise of decent pay is a significant draw for many individuals considering truck driving as their chosen profession, offering financial security and a comfortable lifestyle.
| Position | Salary Range (USD/Year) | Untrained Drivers (Estimated USD/Year) |
| Average Driver | $52,518 to $126,882 |
$30,000-$40,000 |
| Owner-Operators | Up to $323,870 | N/A |
| Ice Road Drivers | $66,917 | N/A |
| Oversized Load Drivers | $71,091 | N/A |
| Specialty Vehicle Haulers | $78,490 | N/A |
| TEAM Truck Drivers | $101,079 | $35,000-$45,000 |
| Private Fleet Drivers | $37,100-$110,000 | $30,000-$40,000 |
| Mining Industry Drivers | $62,868 | N/A |
| Liquids / Tanker Driver | $90,894 | N/A |
| Hazmat Drivers | $70,475 | N/A |
| Regional Truck Drivers | $71,882 | $30,000-$40,000 |
fig 1: A Comparison of Salaries for Trained and Untrained Drivers in the USA
Note:
The salaries presented are averages. They can vary based on experience, location, and the type of truck driving job. Individual earnings may differ. The salaries for untrained drivers are estimated and can vary significantly based on the company, location, and the level of on-the-job training provided.
Return on Investment
Investing in a truck driving school yields significant returns. The training duration is relatively short, and the cost is often more affordable than other educational pursuits. Graduates find themselves able to earn back their investment quickly, thanks to the steady demand for qualified drivers in the transportation industry. The financial return is immediate and enduring, as the skills acquired are invaluable and widely sought after, ensuring graduates’ long-term employment and income stability.
Job Security
The consistent growth of the transportation sector ensures a steady demand for qualified truck drivers, offering unparalleled job security. Industries across the board rely on transportation services to maintain their supply chains, creating a continuous need for professional drivers. This ongoing demand results in multiple job offers and opportunities for CDL holders, providing them with employment stability and security in a dynamic and ever-expanding industry.
Travel Opportunities
Truck driving is an ideal career for individuals passionate about travel. Long-haul drivers traverse various states, experiencing different landscapes, cities, and cultures. This unique aspect of the job allows drivers to explore the country while earning a living, satisfying their wanderlust and sense of adventure. For those who crave variety and new experiences, truck driving offers an opportunity to combine work and travel seamlessly.
Flexible Schedules
The truck driving industry offers diverse scheduling options to accommodate different lifestyles and preferences. Drivers can opt for local, regional, or over-the-road assignments with distinct time commitments and benefits. This flexibility allows for a healthy work-life balance, enabling drivers to tailor their schedules to meet personal needs and obligations, whether they prefer to be home nightly or work extended periods on the road.
Independence
Truck driving offers a significant degree of independence on the job. With much time spent alone on the road, drivers enjoy autonomy, making crucial decisions and solving problems independently. This level of freedom is attractive to those who thrive without constant supervision, valuing the responsibility and independence of steering their ship, literally and figuratively.
Variety
No two days are the same in the life of a truck driver. The job is dynamic, with various routes, cargoes, and challenges presenting themselves daily. Drivers engage with a diverse range of people, navigate through different terrains and weather conditions, and transport a wide array of goods. This variety keeps the job exciting and engaging, offering a constantly changing work environment that appeals to those who disdain monotony.
Career Advancement
With experience, truck drivers have numerous opportunities for career advancement within the industry. They can transition into specialized hauling, secure higher-paying positions, or move into managerial, training, or logistic planning roles. The industry values experience and a solid track record, offering various avenues for career growth and development for those committed to learning and excelling in their profession.
Hands-On Training
Truck driving schools put practical skills at the forefront of their training programs. Students engage in extensive hands-on training, practicing essential driving maneuvers and learning to navigate various scenarios they’ll encounter on the road. This approach ensures graduates are knowledgeable, confident, and prepared to meet the industry’s demands and expectations from day one. The hands-on training is invaluable, laying a solid foundation for a successful career in truck driving.
Truck Driving Schools in the USA: Our Recommendations
Beginning a career in truck driving involves selecting a reputable school that offers comprehensive training and effective career support. The 5 driving schools discussed below are renowned for their commitment to excellence, personalized student attention, and adherence to strict safety and education standards. These institutions provide tailored programs and training modules designed to equip aspiring drivers with the essential skills and knowledge required to thrive in the competitive and demanding field of truck driving.
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Viking Driving School
Location: Park Ridge, IL
Viking Driving School, established in 1996, offers exceptional driver’s education training for both teens and adults. With a unique and effective driving program developed for new drivers, the school boasts experienced owners and instructors with backgrounds in curriculum development and comprehensive instruction.
2. United States Truck Driving School (USTDS)
Location: Wheat Ridge, CO
John Mauro, a former Indy 500 race car driver, founded the United States Truck Driving School in 1958. It has since expanded to become one of the country’s biggest commercial driving schools. With two driver training centers in Colorado and a fleet of 40 modern tractor-trailer rigs, the school provides quality education while adhering to safety regulations.
3. America Truck Driving School
Location: Santa Ana, CA
Established in 2000, America Truck Driving School is known for providing individualized attention to students at every step of their training journey. The school is dedicated to customer service and high-quality training.
4. Roadmaster
Location: Lithia Springs, Georgia
Roadmaster Drivers School is an industry leader with various CDL training programs and experienced instructors. The school maintains high job placement standards and is known for producing top-quality entry-level commercial drivers.
5. U.S. Truck Driver Training School (USTDTS)
Location: Sterling Heights, MI
U.S. Truck Driver Training School is Michigan’s only nationally accredited truck driver training school. Recognized as a leader in the trucking industry, the school has received awards and recognition from various organizations and media outlets in Michigan and nationwide.
Note: Each of these schools offers unique programs and has its own set of advantages. For more detailed information on the courses and training they provide, it is advisable to visit their respective websites.
Ending Note
Enrolling in a truck driving school can undoubtedly be a worthwhile investment for those considering a career in the trucking industry. The advantages are numerous, from the comprehensive training and valuable skills acquired to the potential for lucrative job opportunities and security.
Moreover, the sense of independence and adventure that comes with life on the open road adds an exciting dimension to this profession. While it may require dedication, effort, and financial commitment, the benefits of attending truck driving school can lead to a fulfilling and promising career that opens up a world of possibilities for those who embark on this journey.
So, if you’re contemplating whether or not to take the plunge, the answer may very well be that truck driving school is indeed worth every bit of your time and effort.
James Johnson is a former truck driver who now works as a writer, specializing in the trucking industry. With over 15 years of experience on the road, James has a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by truck drivers and the trucking industry as a whole. His writing focuses on issues such as safety, regulation, and the latest industry trends. His work has been featured in several trucking publications and he has received recognition for his contributions to the industry. In his free time, James still enjoys being around trucks and often attends truck shows and other industry events.