Truck drivers are critical to any economy’s prosperity, as they ensure that valuable goods and raw materials are successfully delivered from one point to another. And California is no different.
In California, truck drivers enjoy constant demand, significant monetary compensation, and numerous other perks and benefits. If you would like to consider a career as a heavy truck driver in California, this is the right place to start.
We have collected all the crucial information you need to ensure that your journey towards kick-starting a career in the field is as smooth and straightforward as possible. Not only will you find the general steps and requirements, but you’ll also discover some of the top schools to consider and your possible salary projection.
How to Become a Truck Driver in California
Below are the steps involved in becoming a truck driver in California.
General Requirements
Before becoming a truck driver in California, candidates must have their high school diploma or GED and preserve a good driving record.
This means they must not have been involved in any road accident. Additionally, they must have had a Class D license for 1 year and have their social security card and proof of California residency ready.
To be able to drive from state to state, candidates must be at least 21 years old, while to be able to drive within the state, they must be at least 18 years old.
Enroll in Training
After fulfilling the above requirements, the next step in becoming a truck driver in California is to enroll in a training school. Thankfully, as we’ll see below, numerous excellent training programs exist for aspiring truck drivers in California.
One of the significant things when applying to a CDL truck driving school is to enroll in training programs with experienced instructors and a great deal of hands-on training.
The best training schools also familiarize students with various road and truck safety aspects that they need to know before taking their commercial driver’s license test.
In California, private academies, driver mills, and community colleges offer training for aspiring truck drivers.
Pass the CDL Test
Enrolling in a training program is to acquire the skills needed to be a successful truck driver and pass the CDL (commercial driver’s license) test. In California, this test includes a knowledge test that examines road safety knowledge and various skills tests that examine competency in vehicle inspection, control, and actual driving.
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Top Truck Driving Schools in California
Below are some of the most prominent truck driving schools in California:
TGA Truck Driving School
The TGA Truck Driving School is another excellent alternative for aspiring truck drivers in Los Angeles, particularly those who desire in-depth education and tutelage under friendly instructors. Emphasis is placed on rigorous training on the job so that graduates are well-prepared for what they are about to encounter.
American Truck Driving School, Santa Ana
The American Truck Driving School offers a beautiful truck driving program in Santa Ana. This program stands out because of its high-quality education and the staff’s professionalism in their business.
Students learn in a serene environment that helps them quickly absorb massive amounts of knowledge.
California Truck Driving Academy
At the California Truck Driving Academy, students enjoy beautiful facilities and a fascinating place to begin a career. They will work with some of the most modern vehicles today and may even enjoy financial aid if they fulfill specific requirements.
Explore Truck Driving Schools by City:
State Licensure and Certification Requirements
If you fulfill the above steps and earn your commercial driver’s license, you can officially begin to work as a truck driver in California. It should be said, however, that the state carries out a 10-year history record check to ensure that candidates have a clean record within that period.
Obtaining a CDL in California also requires paying an original license fee of $76 for class A and B licenses. Renewal costs $45 while taking a skills retest costs $35.
Candidates must also meet the medical requirements set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
Salary and Job Outlook
The annual average salary for truck drivers in California is $78,128. Those who fall into the top 10% earn an average yearly salary of $113,917, while those who fall into the bottom 10% earn an average annual wage of $53,583.
The top cities to be a truck driver in California are Los Angeles, with an annual average salary of $91,845; Bakersfield, with a yearly average of $88,034; and Fontana, with an average annual wage of $82,236.
Sacramento and Colton have the fourth and fifth highest annual average salaries for truck drivers in California at $81,644 and $79,048, respectively.
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