Truck Driving Schools in Nevada

Residents of Nevada who enjoy driving and spending time on the road are encouraged to consider a career as a truck driver. Doing this can set candidates up for a lifetime of success and career opportunities.

In this article, we dive into the steps involved in becoming a truck driver in the state of Nevada. We provide an overview of the general requirements that candidates have to meet, along with other tips that can help them take advantage of advancement opportunities.

We also analyze the licensing and certification process, provide a list of prominent programs, and round up with an analysis of the annual average salary possibilities in the field.

How to Become a Truck Driver in Nevada

The following steps are needed to enter the truck driving discipline as a resident of Nevada.

Medical Certificate and Age Requirement

Candidates seeking to begin a truck driving career in Nevada must obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate. This will demonstrate that they possess the necessary fitness level, along with the right vision to enter the discipline.

Candidates also need to meet the age requirements, which include a minimum age of 21 years for interstate commercial driving and 18 years for driving within the state.

Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit

Both aspiring truck drivers in Nevada and those who would like to upgrade their CDL to a higher class must obtain a commercial learner’s permit. This permit will enable them to practice with vehicles in their respective licensing categories before taking their CDL examination.

The requirements for obtaining a commercial learner’s permit include providing proof of identity and proof of Nevada residency. Candidates must also pass a knowledge examination.

Attend a Truck Driving Program

Attending a truck driving training program is crucial to help candidates prepare for their CDL examination. It is also a great way to make connections with peers and professionals while taking advantage of potential job placement opportunities, sometimes through programs offered by reputable trucking companies.

Most CDL training programs can be completed in a few weeks, and many also offer advanced training, including defensive driving and HAZMAT proficiency.

Pass the CDL Examination

Finally, in order to obtain a license, candidates must pass the CDL examination in Nevada. This exam includes a basic knowledge test covering 20 general areas of truck driving (of which candidates must have at least an 80% score).

It also includes a skills test section, where candidates must demonstrate the required driving and road skills in a vehicle representative of their license class.

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Candidates in Nevada who have met the basic requirements, including medical testing, proof of identity and citizenship, and demonstration of theoretical knowledge, can earn a permit and participate in the licensing examination.

In doing so, they will also need to consider a few relevant fees. These include a $142.25 fee for the CDL (including knowledge and skills test), $58.25 for an instruction permit, and $18 for each endorsement.

Candidates must also pay $31 for the testing needed to add an endorsement. For candidates renewing their CDL in Nevada, the associated fees include $112.25 for a CDL renewal with only a knowledge test, and $34.25 for the driving skills test.

Top Truck Driver Schools in Nevada

The following schools offer top-class education for prospective truck drivers in Nevada.

Explore truck driving schools in Nevada by City:

• Truck driving schools in Las Vegas

Salary & Career Outlook

A truck driver in Nevada may end the year with an annual average salary of $205,106 if they have made it to the top earning bracket. Of course, not everyone will fall into this top 10% category, and some will find themselves among the bottom 10% or the median earners.

For those in the bottom 10%, the annual average salary to expect is approximately $48,610. Truck drivers in Nevada in the median category earn an annual average salary of $99,851.

Location, experience, endorsements, and professional credentials are all helpful when it comes to scaling yearly earnings as a truck driver in the state. The following are the locations with the highest earning figures:

• North Las Vegas, with an annual average salary of $107,966;
• Sparks, with an annual average salary of $105,222;
• Las Vegas, with an annual average salary of $103,042; and
• Reno, with an annual average salary of $101,514.