Heavy Truck Drivers

Career summary

#match with 6145

Heavy truck drivers read instructions to determine how to load cargo. They load items into trucks. They may wrap large items before they are loaded, or cover the entire load if it is on a flatbed. They secure some items with straps, ropes, or chains. They inspect loaded trucks to insure that they can be driven safely.

Drivers concentrate on preventing accidents. They use two-way radios to contact their supervisors and give updates on their position. They usually drive from city to city and often cover several states.

Truck drivers keep their trucks filled with gasoline, oil, and other fluids. Some trucks use different systems to power truck equipment when the truck is not moving. Drivers operate and maintain all of the truck systems. In special situations, truck drivers may have to monitor special cargo. For example, they may have to give water to livestock or make sure cold items are kept cool.

Drivers keep several types of records and fill out forms. Some forms are used to prove that goods were picked up and delivered. Other forms prove that trucks are being driven safely. Drivers keep logs detailing:

• What items they delivered
• How much the items weighed
• When deliveries were made

Related careers

This career is part of the Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Bus Drivers
• Crane and Tower Operators
• Firefighters
• Highway Maintenance Workers
• Light Truck Drivers
• Locomotive Engineers
• Loggers
• Material Moving Machine Operators
• Operating Engineers and Construction Equipment Operators
• Paving Equipment Operators
• Recycling and Reclamation Workers
• Route Salespeople
• School Bus Drivers
• Subway and Streetcar Operators
• Trash Collectors

Military careers

• Vehicle Drivers

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to heavy truck drivers.

• Drive large trucks or tractor-trailer combinations to transport goods. Trucks may run on diesel, electricity, or other fuels.
• Follow safety procedures when transporting dangerous cargo.
• Read bills of lading to determine assignment details.
• Read and interpret maps to determine routes. Use computers and GPS to map routes that use less fuel.
• Load and unload goods from trucks.
• Wrap goods using pads, packing paper, and containers.
• Secure goods in trucks with straps, ropes, or chains.
• Maneuver trucks into loading or unloading position.
• Follow special procedures, such as providing water for livestock or checking refrigeration systems.
• Maintain truck logs according to state and federal regulations.
• Keep accurate records of goods transported.
• Clean, inspect, and service vehicles.
• Obtain signature from customers when delivering goods.
• Maintain radio contact with base or supervisors.
• Use other power sources to run truck equipment and reduce fuel costs.

Common work activities

Heavy truck drivers perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Operate vehicles or mechanized equipment
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Get information needed to do the job
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Control machines and processes
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Document and record information
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Perform activities that use the whole body
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Communicate with people outside the organization
• Evaluate information against standards
• Perform for or work with the public
• Handle and move objects
• Schedule work and activities
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Process information
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Analyze data or information
• Repair and maintain mechanical equipment
• Develop goals and strategies
• Explain the meaning of information to others

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, heavy truck drivers:

Interpersonal relationships

• Communicate with others by telephone on a daily basis. They also communicate by face-to-face discussions, but far less frequently.
• Are responsible for the health and safety of others.
• Have a medium level of social contact. Even though they spend most of their time driving, they are in radio contact with others.
• May have to deal with unpleasant or angry individuals from time to time.
• Are somewhat responsible for the work done by others.
• Sometimes work as part of a team.

Physical work conditions

• Sometimes are exposed to very bright or very dim light.
• Work inside an enclosed vehicle while driving and outdoors while loading and unloading.
• Regularly are exposed to very hot or very cold temperatures.
• Are often exposed to contaminants.
• May wear safety attire, especially when unloading cargo.
• Often work while listening to loud or distracting sounds and noise levels.

Work performance

• Must be exact in their work and be sure all details are done. Errors could cause accidents on the road that could injure themselves or others.
• Work in a moderately competitive atmosphere in which daily and weekly deadlines must be met.
• Sometimes make decisions that impact their employer's reputation. They often consult a supervisor before deciding on a course of action.
• Set some, but not all, of their daily tasks and goals without talking to a supervisor first.
• Must allow the work pace to be set by the speed of equipment or machinery.
• Repeat the same physical activities.

Hours/travel

• Work at least 40 hours per week.
• May work days, evenings, or weekends.
• Usually return home in the evening, if a local truck driver.
• May spend most of the year away from home, if a long-distance truck driver.

Physical demands

Heavy truck drivers frequently:

• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Sit for long periods of time.
• Repeat the same movements.

It is important for heavy truck drivers to be able to:

• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• See objects in very low light.
• While looking forward, see objects or movements that are off to the side.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for heavy truck drivers to be able to:

• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• See objects in very bright or glaring light.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• Move arms and legs quickly.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• Determine from which direction a sound came.
• Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.

Skills and abilities

Heavy truck drivers need to:

Communicate

• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Understand spoken information.

Reason and problem solve

• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Manage the time of self and others.
• Check how well one is learning or doing something.

Work with things

• Operate and control equipment.
• Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
• Determine the causes of technical problems and find solutions for them.

Perceive and visualize

• Know one's location in a physical setting and recognize where other objects are located in relation to oneself.
• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Heavy Equipment Operations
• Truck and Bus Driving

Training

To work as a heavy truck driver, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• complete a formal training program;
• complete short-term, on-the-job training;
• be at least 18 years old (for in-state driving) or 21 years old (for driving across state borders); and
• have a commercial driver's license (CDL).

Education after high school

Most new drivers learn their skills through formal programs. Many private and public vocational schools offer tractor-trailer driver training programs. These programs typically award a certificate or diploma and last less than one year. Completion of such a program should help you get a job as a trainee. However, you should check the school's reputation with area employers before enrolling.

Some states require you to complete a basic truck-driving training program if you have not attended a formal training program. This often is a requirement for a commercial driver's license. These programs usually take a few months to complete.

Work experience

Many people work in other jobs before becoming heavy truck drivers. Operating equipment or driving light trucks is good background for this occupation. Some drivers begin as assistants. They drive part of the time and help the driver load and unload cargo.

On-the-job training

Once hired, you may work with an experienced driver for a short time, lasting up to one month. You may ride along and observe for a period of time before getting your own assignments. You may also receive training in special cargo, such as hazardous materials.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be vehicle drivers. Training lasts seven to eight weeks, depending on your specialty. Further training occurs on the job.

Helpful high school courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Diesel Mechanics and Repair
• Driver Education
• Geography
• Physical Education

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Many employers require applicants to be at least 25 years of age and have a commercial driver's license. Employers prefer applicants who have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. They also prefer applicants who have a good driving record.

Many jobs require physical strength and stamina. Some employers may require applicants to show they can lift 50 pounds. Employers may also require applicants to pass a drug test.

Employers prefer people who can work without much supervision. Many employers also prefer applicants who have experience driving light or heavy trucks.

Licensing/certification

Heavy truck drivers who travel interstate must be 21 years old, pass a physical exam, have 20/40 vision in each eye (with or without correction), good hearing, and normal blood pressure. They must also be tested for drug and alcohol abuse, have a good driving record, pass a road test, and keep a copy of their medical examiner's certificate on file with the State of Washington. Drivers must have a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). To qualify for the CDL in Washington, you must:

• be at least 18 years old;
• have a valid Washington State driver's license;
• successfully complete a training course at an approved CDL school or provide certification from employer that one already has the required skills and training;
• go through a background check and physical; and
• pass written and three-part (pre-trip inspection, basic controls, and road test) practical skills tests.

Individuals with certain medical conditions and physical impairments may be ineligible for licensing. Applicants should contact the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for more information. Drivers can receive endorsements for driving tanker trucks or double or triple trailer trucks by taking specific tests.

Information about Washington State requirements and fees can be obtained by calling a local Driver's License Examining Station or by visiting the Department of Licensing .

Current federal regulations require all drivers who seek endorsements to haul fuel, chemicals, and other hazardous materials to:

• provide fingerprints to the federal Transportation Security Administration (TSA);
• provide proof of US citizenship or permanent US residency status;
• undergo a TSA background check;
• complete a HAZMAT knowledge test; and
• pay additional permitting fees upon renewal of their license.

There is a fee for the TSA fingerprinting and background check for this endorsement and for the related endorsement test.

Information on hazardous material endorsements for combination driver's licenses can be found at Washington State Department of Licensing .

For further information on formal requirements, contact:

US Department of Transportation 
724 Columbia street, NW, Suite 200
Olympia, WA 98501
360.753.9875

#Checked above 3/22/13 lh & 3/18/14, 4/25/16 cj. lh 3/27/17 lh deleted fee section. Updated local US DOT address; rest ok 4/3/18 cj. 2/7/19 lh

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

Heavy truck drivers who transport goods across long distances are typically paid by the mile. The rate per mile varies greatly, depending on the employer and the type of cargo. Those who drive larger trucks typically earn higher wages.

Heavy truck drivers who work full time often receive benefits. Typical benefits include health insurance, sick leave, and paid vacation.

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Major employers:

• General freight trucking
• Specialized freight trucking
• Wholesale trade

National outlook

Demand for this occupation will be steady due to the growing economy. Most companies ship goods by trucks from one part of the country to another. When the economy is strong, people buy more and truck drivers are needed to transport products. However, when the economy is weak, fewer products need to be transported. Drivers may work fewer hours or not at all during those periods.

Many openings will occur as experienced drivers move to other fields of work or retire. However, competition will be strong for the jobs with the best wages and working conditions.

Other resources

American Trucking Associations 
950 North Glebe Road, Suite 210
Arlington, VA 22203-4181
703.838.1700

International Brotherhood of Teamsters, AFL-CIO 
25 Louisiana Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20001
202.624.6800

Professional Truck Driver Institute 
13791 E Rice Pl, Suite 114
Aurora, CO 80015
720.575.7444

Washington Trucking Associations 
2102 Carriage Drive SW, Building F
Olympia, WA 98502
800.732.9019
253.838.1650

References

Career cluster

• Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics

Career path

• Realistic (Technical)

O*Net  occupation

• Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers (53-3032.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed. Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful in these occupations, but usually is not needed.

DOT occupations

• Concrete-mixing-truck Driver (900.683-010) 
• Drip Pumper (953.583-010) 
• Driver-utility Worker (919.663-018) 
• Dump-truck Driver (902.683-010) 
• Explosives-truck Driver (903.683-010) 
• Garbage Collector Driver (905.663-010) 
• Hostler (909.663-010) 
• Log-truck Driver (904.683-010) 
• Milk Driver (905.483-010) 
• Powder-truck Driver (903.683-014) 
• Tank-truck Driver (903.683-018) 
• Tow-truck Operator (919.663-026) 
• Tractor-trailer-truck Driver (904.383-010) 
• Truck Driver, Heavy (905.663-014) 
• Water-truck Driver II (905.683-010) 

Holland occupational cluster

• Realistic/Conventional/Investigative

COPSystem

• Technology Skilled