The Best Paying Driving Jobs for CDL Holders
You’ve earned your commercial driver’s license (CDL). Now you can get paid to drive. If you’re interested in a driving career that offers more than just a commute to and from work every day, you might want to consider one of the many different jobs out there for drivers with commercial licenses.
Whether you’re looking for something local or something that allows you to see the country while working, there are many different types of driving jobs out there for best paying driving jobs CDL holders. Many of these jobs are perfect for those who like structure and routine in their workday. However, some require shift work and extended road trips so if those things don’t sound appealing check the details before applying.
What is a CDL?
A commercial driver’s license (CDL) allows people to drive semi-trucks and commercial vehicles (including buses) that are designed to haul 15 or more passengers, hazardous materials, or certain quantities of certain other types of materials like alcohol, livestock, or chemicals. Some individuals with CDLs may be eligible to apply for a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
The CDL is required if the vehicle that the driver operates is required to be placarded for general commercial purposes. In order to receive a CDL, a person must first have a valid state-issued driver’s license, pass a medical examination, pass a drug test, and pass a background check. If a person passes these examinations and screenings, he or she will receive a CDL.
Tractor-Trailer Driver
One of the best paying driving jobs CDL holders is tractor-trailer driver. This driver will be responsible for best paying driving jobs CDL a tractor-trailer combination filled with goods from one destination to another. Some of the requirements for this job include being at least 21 years of age, having a valid driver’s license, and a clean criminal record.
Many companies also require their drivers to be at least 25 years of age to reduce the risk of accidents. It’s also important to be very familiar with the Interstate Highway System since you’ll be hauling goods to and from different cities. A tractor-trailer driver can earn an average of $56,000 per year. However, this amount can vary depending on experience, location, and type of company.
Flatbed-Dwelling Cargo Van Driver
A flatbed-dwelling cargo van driver hauls goods that are too large to fit inside a trailer. They might drive a large van (or a pickup truck with a bed) or a low-deck trailer. This job is perfect for someone who likes variety and does well with change. This driver will have a lot of different types of cargo to haul during the course of their work week.
They might drive anything from construction supplies to livestock feed. This job requires quick reflexes and a strong stomach because things can get messy. A flatbed-dwelling cargo van driver can expect to earn an average salary of $40,000 per year. This amount can vary depending on experience and the type of company.
OTR Driving Positions
OTR driving positions are for those who want to earn good money driving long distances. This type of best paying driving jobs CDL work is perfect for those who have the desire to travel. These types of drivers will haul goods for long distances, sometimes for weeks at a time. Some of the goods that these drivers might haul include goods for agriculture, livestock, or construction.
An OTR driving position is a great way to earn a substantial amount of money without dealing with the hassles of running a business. Pay for OTR best paying driving jobs CDL positions can vary greatly depending on the type of cargo being hauled and the distance traveled. Overall, OTR driving positions are a great way to earn a substantial amount of money while seeing the country.
Delivery Service Professional
A delivery service professional is responsible for delivering food, goods, and products to customers who order them online. This type of driving job is perfect for those who want a predictable schedule that allows them to plan their work hours around other obligations. Some of the goods and products that a delivery service professional might be responsible for delivering include groceries, toiletries, and clothes.
This type of driving job is perfect for those who have limited experience with best paying driving jobs CDL because there are very few regulations related to it. A delivery service professional can earn an average of $40,000 per year. The amount earned varies greatly depending on the type of goods that are being delivered and the amount of hours worked.
Conclusion
If you enjoy being on the road and you have your commercial driver’s license (CDL), there are plenty of great paying driving jobs for CDL holders out there.
From long-haul trucking to delivering food, there are many different types of driving jobs that are perfect for those who enjoy being behind the wheel. So before you hit the road, be sure to research the best paying driving jobs CDL holders.
References:
1-Development and Assessment of a Connected Vehicle Training Program for Truck Drivers
Publishing Date: February 15, 2019
doi.org/10.1177/0361198119827904
2-Truck Driving Simulator Effectiveness
Publishing Date: June 3, 2008
doi.org/10.1115/IMECE2002-32964
