Following the rise in popularity for online shopping, an increasing number of products need to be transported across the United States. This has resulted in a surge in truck driver jobs, with employers willing to pay in excess of $80,000 per year in salaries for those who have what it takes to fill these positions.
With more than 50,000 truck driving jobs out there, seniors now have a new way to earn extra money and fill their time after retirement. Let’s take a look at how you can land a truck driving job, as well as the array of benefits that come with a career as a truck driver.
How You Can Become a Truck Driver
First and foremost, it is imperative for you to get a CDL. While a Class A CDL will allow you to drive a tractor-trailer, the Class B and Class C categories are sufficient for driving busses, dump trucks, and vans. Here are the steps you will need to take in order to earn your CDL:
Find A CDL Manual
You can find a copy of this manual on the website of your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Alternatively, you can pay a visit to any of the DMV’s testing sites. The first thing that you should do upon collecting y to our manual is to check that you meet all qualifying requirements. You will need to be a minimum of 18 to 21 years of age in order to take the test, depending on your state.
Pass a Series of Written Tests
Once you have studied the CDL manual and are well-versed in its contents, it’s time to take a series of written tests at your local DMV. Upon passing these tests, you will be awarded a commercial driver’s instruction permit (CDIP). This will allow you to practice driving a tractor-trailer and other large vehicles. A CDIP is necessary in this regard, as you are not allowed to practice driving these large vehicles with a regular driver’s license.
Obtain Any Relevant Endorsements
Depending on the type of vehicle or conditions under which you will drive, you may need to obtain an additional endorsement or two. This will mean passing some additional tests. Here is a list of the endorsements you may obtain:
- Class H: Hazardous Materials
- Class N: Tank Vehicles
- Class P: passenger-carrying Vehicles
- Class S: School Buses
- Class T: Towing a Double or Triple Trailer
Time To Take Some Skill Tests
Once you have practiced your driving, it’s time to prove that you have the skills to handle a commercial vehicle. This means taking a road test. If you are applying for a Class A category license, you will need to pass your test in a tractor-trailer rig. You will also need to take additional tests for any endorsements you may have applied for.
Costs
If you happen to be worried about the costs of obtaining a CDL; don’t fear. There are a number of truck driving jobs with paid training out there! In fact, a number of trucking companies will allow you to borrow one of their trucks for your tests. This is a quick and cost-effective way to become a truck driver!
While many other positions require some prior experience, this is not a requirement for many truck driving positions. In fact, with so many trucking companies being willing to pay for new employees’ CDL tests, there are several truck-driving jobs with no experience required!
The Benefits Of Becoming a Truck Driver
Salary
Many seniors are faced with severe financial issues. More than half of American seniors have less than $10,000 in the bank, while a third of seniors have no savings at all. By working as a truck driver, you can continue to support yourself and live a financially independent life.
Employee Benefits
Life as a trucker comes with an array of benefits. Because many trucking companies provide their employees with retirement plans and life insurance, seniors who decide to become truck drivers can receive additional financial security.
While you may subscribe to one of Medicare’s health plans, this does not mean that you are going to be covered for all types of medical procedures. Some services, such as dental, vision, and prescription drugs, may be covered by your trucking company. Yet another benefit associated with trucking is holiday pay and paid vacations.
Travel
Before retirement age, many people find it difficult to travel. Responsibilities such as raising a family and holding down a job have made it difficult for people to take an extended vacation abroad.
Deciding to become a truck driver will enable retirees to experience all different locations across the United States. To sweeten the deal, they will get to be paid while doing so.
Teamwork
While many retirees may feel lonely upon leaving an office environment, landing a trucking job may be a viable solution. Many trucking companies allow truck drivers to work as teams, meaning that husbands and wives can work together while both being remunerated.
Sense of Accomplishment
While many retirees may get bored from having too much time on their hands, those who become truck drivers can take pride in the fact that they are contributing to the economy.
So, if you are looking for a productive way to spend your retirement, you might want to consider taking up a rewarding job as a truck driver!