Truck Driving Schools in Rhode Island

For individuals living in Rhode Island who are considering a career in truck driving, it is crucial to begin with a clear understanding of the state’s licensing process and other requirements. These include age restrictions, educational background, and medical evaluations, all of which are key aspects of becoming a qualified commercial driver in this state.

Thanks to the sections that follow, readers will be walked through everything they need to know—from meeting the physical and legal standards to choosing the right CDL training program. We also highlight some of the most reputable training schools and institutions in the area that help set students up for long-term success.

How to Become a Truck Driver in Rhode Island

The majority of truck drivers in Rhode Island begin their careers through the approach below.

Foundational Requirements

In preparing for a career as a truck driver, residents of Rhode Island must ensure they are in good physical shape, as they will be required to pass a medical examination. They will also need to have attained a minimum age of 18 years to drive within Rhode Island, and a minimum age of 21 years to cross state borders.

Commercial Learner’s Permit

A commercial learner’s permit is not a CDL, but it gives candidates temporary approval to drive a vehicle in their license class in preparation for their CDL examination. Obtaining a commercial learner’s permit involves passing a knowledge test and providing proof of identity and state residence.

CDL Training Preparation

Attending a training program is an excellent way to develop professional skills while also practicing with vehicles in a candidate’s license class in preparation for their CDL examination. It is common to attend a CDL training program offered by a community college, technical institution, or private school.

Candidates may also complete their education at their prospective companies. Some trucking companies have been known to offer programs that enable candidates to develop unique skills, which can be applied upon program completion to help them become assimilated into the company.

The CDL Examination

Finally, individuals in Rhode Island have to pass their actual CDL examination before they can become professional truck drivers. The exam includes aspects that determine a candidate’s proficiency in terms of rules and regulations, as well as actual driving skills, pre-trip inspection, backing and maneuvering, among others.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become an aircraft mechanic in Rhode Island

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The minimum requirements for getting a CDL in the state of Rhode Island include proof of citizenship, a medical examination, and a valid operator’s license. For the CDL application, candidates are required to pay a fee of $11.50.

To renew this license after 5 years, they must pay an $81.50 fee. After obtaining a license, candidates must also ensure that they operate within the standard rules and regulations; otherwise, they may have their license revoked.

Some common disqualification criteria for truck drivers include driving under the influence of alcohol, testing positive for controlled substances, fleeing the scene of an accident, and refusing to take an alcohol test as required.

Top Truck Driver Schools in Rhode Island

The entries below are among the top locations for high-quality education for prospective truck drivers in Rhode Island.

Explore truck driving schools in Rhode Island by City:

• Truck driving schools in Providence

Salary & Career Outlook

As a truck driver in Rhode Island, it is possible to earn an annual average salary of $245,776. However, this is only possible for those who have scaled their earnings to be among the top 10%, according to Indeed.

At the beginning of their career journey, candidates may earn an annual average salary of $71,449 in the bottom 10% or an annual average salary of $132,516 in the median category. It is by improving their experience, location, credentials, and endorsements that candidates can earn more in the state.

As for the best locations for high salaries, truck drivers in Rhode Island may consider North Providence, with an annual average salary of $260,848; Cranston, with an annual average salary of $145,988; and Woonsocket, with an annual average salary of $106,091.