CDL Truck Driver Careers & Salary Information
CDL truck drivers haul freight across local routes or long-distance highways. The ongoing driver shortage means competitive pay, sign-on bonuses, and plenty of job options for qualified drivers.
National Salary Overview
CDL Truck Driver Specialties
CDL Truck Drivers can specialize in different areas, each with its own pay scale and career path.
Local Delivery Driver
Makes daily deliveries within a metro area and is home every night. Lower pay than OTR but better work-life balance.
Over-the-Road (OTR) Driver
Hauls freight across state lines for days or weeks at a time. Higher pay and bonuses but significant time away from home.
Tanker/Hazmat Driver
Transports hazardous materials, fuel, and chemicals in tanker trucks. Extra endorsements and risk translate to above-average pay.
Flatbed Driver
Hauls oversized and heavy loads on flatbed trailers, requiring tarping and securement skills. Pays more than dry van but more physical work.
Owner-Operator
Runs their own truck as an independent contractor or small business. Higher gross pay but responsible for fuel, insurance, and maintenance costs.
Ice Road/Specialized Hauler
Hauls freight on ice roads, in oilfields, or in other extreme conditions that require specialized skills and equipment. Hazard pay pushes earnings way up.
Auto Hauler
Transports vehicles on car carrier trailers from factories, auctions, and ports to dealerships. Requires careful loading skills and pays well.
Explore CDL Truck Driver Topics
CDL Truck Driver Salary by State
Click any state to see detailed salary data, top-paying cities, and union vs. non-union breakdowns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
CDL Truck Driver salaries in the United States vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level cdl truck drivers typically earn around 60-70% of the median wage, while experienced professionals and those with master-level credentials can earn 25-50% above the median.
Entry-level cdl truck drivers in the United States typically start at the lower end of the pay range, which reflects apprentice or helper-level positions. As you gain experience and complete your training program, your pay increases significantly within the first 2-3 years.
Yes. Union cdl truck drivers earn 15-30% more per hour on average than their non-union counterparts. When you factor in benefits like pensions, healthcare, and annuity contributions, the total compensation gap is even wider. However, union availability varies significantly by region.
The path to becoming a fully qualified cdl truck driver depends on the route you take. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trade school programs can be completed in 6-24 months, though you will still need field experience to reach journeyman level.
CDL Truck Driver work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The national job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified cdl truck drivers have strong bargaining power. The work can be physically demanding, but many professionals find the trade rewarding and well-compensated.
Certifications can significantly boost a cdl truck driver's earning potential. Industry-recognized credentials, advanced specializations, and safety certifications all help you stand out to employers and command higher hourly rates. Master-level licenses typically result in the biggest pay increases.