Truck driving is a lucrative and in-demand profession that requires a specific set of skills and qualifications. One of the questions that aspiring truck drivers often ask is how old they need to be to enter this field. In this article, we’ll explore the age requirements for becoming a truck driver and provide some tips on how to start your truck driving career.
Minimum Age Requirements for Truck Drivers
In general, the minimum age requirement for becoming a truck driver is 21 years old. This is because most commercial trucking companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old to operate their vehicles across state lines. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.
Age Requirements for Intrastate Truck Driving
If you’re interested in driving trucks within your state only, you may be able to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) at the age of 18. However, you’ll still need to meet other requirements, such as passing a CDL knowledge and skills test and meeting medical and physical qualifications.
Age Requirements for Military Veterans
If you’re a military veteran, you may be able to obtain a CDL at the age of 18 through the Military Skills Test Waiver Program. This program allows veterans with certain military driving experience to bypass the skills test requirement for obtaining a CDL.
Other Requirements for Becoming a Truck Driver
In addition to meeting the age requirements, there are other qualifications that you’ll need to fulfill to become a truck driver. These include:
- Having a clean driving record
- Passing a medical exam to ensure that you’re physically fit to drive a truck
- Obtaining a CDL from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles
- Passing a CDL knowledge and skills test
- Completing a truck driving training program
People Also Ask
Here are some common questions that people also ask about the age requirements for becoming a truck driver:
- Can you become a truck driver at 18? If you’re interested in driving trucks within your state only, you may be able to obtain a CDL at the age of 18. However, you’ll still need to meet other requirements, such as passing a CDL knowledge and skills test and meeting medical and physical qualifications.
- Can you become a truck driver at 19? You’ll need to be at least 21 years old to operate a commercial truck across state lines. However, if you’re interested in driving within your state only, you may be able to obtain a CDL at the age of 18.
- Can you become a truck driver at 20? You’ll need to be at least 21 years old to operate a commercial truck across state lines. However, if you’re interested in driving within your state only, you may be able to obtain a CDL at the age of 18.