If you’re thinking about becoming a truck driver, you’ve probably already done some research on the topic. But as with many jobs, there’s more to know than just what’s written in the job description. Truck driving is a great career choice for many people, but it can also be dangerous if it isn’t done safely and responsibly. In this article, I’ll show you how to make sure your new career path is safe and successful by covering everything from passing your written test through getting the right insurance coverage once you’re on the road.
Know the Do’s and Don’ts of Truck Driving
As a professional driver, you need to know the do’s and don’ts of truck driving. Here are some tips:
- Don’t talk on the phone while driving. It’s illegal in most states and can be dangerous if you’re not paying attention to what’s happening around you.
- Don’t text while driving either–even if it’s just sending one word responses like “sure” or “okay.” Just don’t do it!
- Don’t eat while behind the wheel; even chewing gum can be distracting enough to cause an accident if it causes you to miss seeing something important in front of your vehicle (like another car).
Get the Right Insurance
You’ll need to get the right insurance for your truck.
Insurance is required for all commercial drivers and the cost of your policy will depend on several factors, including:
- Your age and experience as a driver (older drivers pay more)
- The type of vehicle you drive (larger trucks tend to cost more)
- Whether or not you have any accidents or moving violations in your history
Get an Endorsement
If you want to get an endorsement, the best way is through a truck driving school. Most schools offer courses that will help you prepare for your CDL exam and teach you how to handle different kinds of trucks. Some even offer endorsements in specialized areas such as refrigerated trucks or hazmat transportation.
To be eligible for an endorsement, you’ll need:
- A valid driver’s license from your state or province (or country)
- Proof that you have passed all required tests on road signs and signals as well as rules of the road (including those related to transporting hazardous materials)
Take a Class
To get a commercial driver’s license (CDL), you will need to take a course that covers the basics of operating a truck. These courses are available at truck driving schools and can be taken in person or online. They’re required for anyone who wants to drive professionally, so if you have any interest in pursuing this career path, it’s worth looking into them early on.
There are many different locations where classes are offered: some may be local while others might be further away from home but still convenient enough for those who live outside major cities; some offer classes in English while others offer them in other languages as well; some charge less than others depending on their location or curriculum structure (e.g., classroom-based vs distance learning).
But regardless of where they’re held and what they cost per hour spent there–and regardless whether they’re run by private companies versus state governments–there’s no denying that these lessons will give aspiring drivers an edge over those without them when applying for jobs later down their career path!
There are three main types of truck licenses
- CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) – This type of license is required for commercial trucks, buses and other vehicles that weigh more than 26,000 pounds. It allows the driver to operate any type of vehicle with a gross weight of 26,001 pounds or less.
- Rigid license – A medium rigid license is required if you intend to drive vehicles weighing between 7,500 and 26,000 pounds. Rigid licenses are issued in states where there are no CDL requirements or if they only apply to certain vehicles like tractors or buses.
- Air brakes – Air brakes are used on all trucks with a gross weight over 10,000 pounds. The air brakes allow the driver to stop or slow down quickly by releasing compressed air into the system.
Pass the Written Test
Before you even think about taking your trucking license test, it’s important to take a class. Classes will help you learn more about how to operate a commercial vehicle and the rules of the road. They are also a great way to get accustomed to being behind the wheel of one–you can start practicing before you even apply for your license!
When it comes time to study for your written exam, make sure that you do so with an open mind and an open heart. You’re going to have some hard days ahead of yourself if this is something that really matters in life: remember that there are many people out there who want what’s best for them but don’t always know how (or where) they can find it; try not be too hard on yourself while trying new things like studying or learning new skills like driving trucks around town all day long just because these types of activities seem unrelated sometimes when viewed from only one perspective.
So, if you’re ready to start your trucking career, we hope that this article has helped give you a better idea of what’s involved. It’s important to remember that there are many different types of endorsements and licenses available for commercial drivers–and each one will have its own set of requirements. The best way to ensure success is by taking the time necessary for studying and practice before taking any tests.
