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Flatbed truck driving can be a rewarding career for those who enjoy the open road and have a passion for transportation. As a flatbed truck driver, you will transport oversized and heavy loads, which requires specialized skills and equipment. Here’s how to become a flatbed truck driver:
Step 1: Get a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
The first step to becoming a flatbed truck driver is to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). To obtain a CDL, you must pass a written knowledge test and a skills test. The written test covers topics like road safety, driving laws, and trucking regulations. The skills test includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.
Step 2: Gain Driving Experience
Once you have your CDL, you need to gain some driving experience. Some trucking companies require a minimum of 2-3 years of driving experience before they will hire a flatbed truck driver. You can gain experience by working for a trucking company as a local or regional driver, or by driving for a flatbed carrier that provides on-the-job training.
Step 3: Obtain Flatbed Trucking Experience
After you have gained some driving experience, the next step is to obtain flatbed trucking experience. Flatbed trucking requires specialized skills, such as securing loads and tarps, that are not typically taught in CDL training. You can gain flatbed trucking experience by working for a flatbed carrier or by attending a flatbed trucking school.
Step 4: Meet the Requirements of Flatbed Trucking Companies
Flatbed trucking companies have specific requirements for their drivers, such as minimum age, driving record, and physical fitness. Make sure you meet these requirements before applying for a job. You may also need to pass a drug test and a background check.
Step 5: Apply for a Job
Once you have met the requirements of flatbed trucking companies, you can start applying for jobs. Look for job openings on trucking job boards, company websites, and social media. You can also work with a recruiter who specializes in flatbed trucking to find job opportunities.
Step 6: Continue Your Education
Flatbed trucking is constantly evolving, with new regulations and technologies emerging all the time. To stay competitive and advance your career, consider continuing your education by attending seminars, taking courses, or obtaining additional certifications.
Step 7: Join a Professional Organization
Joining a professional organization, such as the National Association of Small Trucking Companies or the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, can provide you with networking opportunities, industry news, and educational resources.
By following these steps, you can become a successful flatbed truck driver and enjoy a rewarding career on the open road.
People Also Ask:
Q: What qualifications do you need to be a flatbed truck driver?
A: To be a flatbed truck driver, you need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), driving experience, and specialized flatbed trucking experience. You also need to meet the requirements of flatbed trucking companies, such as minimum age, driving record, and physical fitness.
Q: What do flatbed truck drivers haul?
A: Flatbed truck drivers haul oversized and heavy loads, such as construction equipment, building materials, and machinery. They also transport products that cannot be shipped in enclosed trailers, such as large pipes or tanks.
Q: How much do flatbed truck drivers make?
A: According to Indeed, the average salary for a flatbed truck driver is $72,000 per year. However, salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the company you work for.
