Truck drivers in New Jersey enjoy numerous adventures, but, most importantly, they have the luxury of being independent, secure, and able to earn a good salary throughout the year. For these reasons, it is not surprising that more and more candidates are starting to pursue a career in the field.
If you are an aspiring truck driver in New Jersey wanting to be clear about the steps involved in starting a career, you have come to the right page. Below, we break down all of these considerations in great detail.
We examine the step-by-step requirements and then focus on the licensure and certification mandates. Candidates will also discover other important topics, such as the best places to obtain comprehensive training and the possible salary projections as a fresh truck driver in New Jersey.
How to Become a Truck Driver in New Jersey
Aspiring truck drivers in New Jersey must follow the process below to begin their careers on a strong foundation.
Meeting the Basic Requirements
Candidates who wish to obtain a CDL in New Jersey must meet the requirements set by the state. Even though there are many of these, the most basic requirements include being at least 18 years old to drive within the state and being at least 21 years old to handle hazardous materials and drive across borders.
Candidates must also be in sound physical shape and have 20/40 vision in both eyes with and without glasses.
Meeting the Training Requirements
All aspiring truck drivers in New Jersey must pass a commercial driver’s license test. Enrolling in a training program is usually advisable to pass the test.
These programs teach students classroom principles and real-world driving maneuvers, which will be important when taking the test.
In one of the upcoming sections, we highlight some of the most notable truck driving training programs for aspiring truck drivers in New Jersey.
Passing your CDL Test
To acquire their commercial driver’s license (CDL), candidates must pass knowledge and skills tests. The knowledge test is written, while the skills test must be demonstrated on the road.
Each knowledge test will have questions dealing with several areas of truck driving, including vehicle operation and safety regulations. Candidates must pass with an 80% score to qualify for their CDL.
The second part of the skills test requires applicants to successfully demonstrate their capability when it safely comes to operating vehicles. This includes pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving tests.
Applying for CDL
After all of the above, the next step is to apply for your CDL by visiting the DMV office and providing the necessary documentation. The section below explores the key requirements you need to do so successfully.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
In New Jersey, truck drivers may apply for a commercial driver’s license in three classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class A license applies to vehicles with a gross combination weight rating of more than 26,000 lbs. and towed vehicles heavier than 10,000 lbs.
Class B is similar, except the towed vehicle must be less than 10,000 lbs. Class C includes vehicles carrying more than 16 passengers or carrying hazardous materials.
Candidates are expected to graduate from an approved education program and pay the necessary fees, including a $125 non-refundable payment for the learner’s permit and a $42 CDL fee valid for 4 years.
Candidates seeking additional endorsement for specialization must also pay $2 for each specialization. Possible endorsements include H - hazardous materials; N - tank vehicles; P - passenger transport; and S - school bus, among others.
Top Truck Driving Schools in New Jersey
The following are some notable truck driving schools in New Jersey:
- E - Z Wheels Driving School - Boasts multiple locations across the state, all offering comprehensive CDL training.
- Express Driving School - Another popular option with extensive hands-on training.
- Cumberland County College - Perfect for students looking for an academic program.
- Jersey Tractor CDL - Offers both commercial driving and tractor driving programs.
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Salary & Career Outlook
As a fresh truck driver in New Jersey, it is possible to earn an annual average salary that is in line with the general state average. This figure usually falls around $110,892, according to data obtained from a survey of truck drivers in this state by Indeed.
Narrowing the figures even further, we find that truck drivers in New Jersey who are among the highest earners (top 10%) take home an annual average salary of $222,863, while those who are among the lowest earners (bottom 10%) take home an annual average salary of $55,178.
Examining the factors that affect where truck drivers fall in this range, experience, and location are some of the most important. Concerning the latter, Edison, Jersey City, and Newark are some notable destinations to practice as a truck driver in New Jersey, with annual average salaries of $137,674, $123,885, and $96,439, respectively.
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