Truck Driving Schools in Maine

Many experienced truck drivers in Maine refer to the profession not merely as a job, but as a way of life. This is because it includes responsibilities that go beyond driving a car and shifting gears.

Anyone who will succeed in this field must be able to handle unique challenges and develop strong mental fortitude. Below, we break down every major requirement and consideration that Maine residents must keep in mind when entering the truck driving discipline.

We analyze the preparatory steps, educational destinations, licensing considerations, certification options, and annual salary averages, among other factors.

How to Become a Truck Driver in Maine

Aspiring truck drivers in Maine can begin their careers by following the framework outlined below.

Minimum Requirements

Maine residents who would like to obtain a commercial driver’s license to become successful truck drivers must meet a few basic requirements. These requirements include being at least 16 years old to drive within the state (or 21 years old to drive outside the state), possessing a valid state driver’s license, and providing proof of U.S. citizenship and lawful permanent residence in the United States.

Physical Requirements

Perspective truck drivers in Maine must also prove that they are physically fit for the job. For this, they will need to complete a medical examiner’s certificate from a doctor approved by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Applicants must also have 20/40 vision in their best eye.

Commercial Learner’s Permits

Before they can get a commercial driver’s license, aspiring truck drivers in the state of Maine must first have a commercial learner’s permit. Obtaining a learner’s permit involves passing a vision test and providing relevant documentation, including medical paperwork and identification.

Completing a Truck Driving Course

Although the state does not require it, candidates typically have a better chance of becoming successful truck drivers in Maine if they complete a CDL education preparation course. The state has several prominent training destinations, and we will analyze a few of the best options in an upcoming section.

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Prospective truck drivers in Maine must be prepared to pay the applicable fees associated with obtaining a CDL in the state. Currently, these fees include $70 for the written examination and $34 for the commercial driver’s license, which is valid for 5 years.

Individuals aged 65 years or older must pay $28 for a commercial driver’s license that is valid for four years.

Truck drivers can acquire additional endorsements to perform specific tasks. Each endorsement costs $20.

Those who have acquired a commercial learner’s permit in the state will be given a request card for the skills test. This request card will be used to schedule the CDL exam appointment.

Top Truck Driver Schools in Maine

Below are some entries known to be among the top training destinations for future truck drivers in Maine.

Explore truck driving schools in Maine by city:

• Truck driving schools in Portland

Salary & Career Outlook

In Maine, truck drivers can expect to make a wide range of earnings depending on their experience level, employer, and location. For those in the median earning bracket, the average annual salary sits around $95,181.

This is a solid starting point for many professionals in the field. Newer drivers or those working part-time may find themselves in the bottom 10% of earners, bringing in a lower average of $47,013, which is still a viable income while they build experience.

Over time, with more miles under their belt and possibly endorsements or specialized routes, drivers can work their way into the top 10%, where annual salaries can reach $192,701 or even higher.

Based on location alone, Lewiston, with its average annual salary of $122,343, is the highest-paying area for truck drivers in Maine. Portland, with an average annual salary of $120,95, and Biddeford, with an average annual salary of $112,655, are in the top 3.