Driving a truck can prove to be quite different from driving a smaller vehicle. This can be attributed to the fact that driving a larger vehicle such as a truck can be harder to maneuver compared to a smaller car. For this reason, you need to have a good idea of what you have to do as well as what is required of you before you can get behind the wheel of a big rig. This article lists down some of the requirements that you need to process to drive a semi-truck.

Basic Requirements

Some of the basic requirements for you to become a truck driver include being at least 18 years of age to be able to drive in state lines. However, you have to be at least 21 to drive across states. You also need to have a clean driving record as well as proof of state residency. In parallel to this, you should also have a social security number, along with proof of insurance. You also have to pass periodic drug tests as well as medical examinations and background checks. From there, you will already be able to apply for a commercial license permit.

Commercial License Permit

Before you apply for a commercial driver’s license to get behind the wheel of a big rig, you first need to apply for a commercial license permit. You will be able to obtain this in the state where you are residing. When you already have a CPL, you will already have the opportunity to acquire the skills you need to be eligible for a CDL. Explore online sources where you will most likely find a used Peterbilt semi for sale that you can use to hone your truck driving skills and eventually obtain the CDL you need. The important thing is for you to try to pass your CLP exam on the first try.

Basic Education Requirements and Professional Training

When it comes to basic education requirements, most long-haul employers require their drivers to have at least a high school diploma or a GED equivalent. Apart from this though, applicants vying to be a commercial truck driver need to have completed the curriculum from an accredited community college or even private truck driving school. More often than not, the programs span several months.

While you will be able to learn the basics about driving a truck in a driving school, you should also take the time to learn the basic regulations for you to be able to pass the required exams. For this reason, you should both learn the theory behind driving a truck and put what you have learned into practice.

The Bottomline

To be able to drive a semi-truck, you have to process the basic requirements at the very least. From there, you may need to apply for a commercial license permit as well. You should also consider getting the basic education requirements and professional training because all these are geared to ensure that you will be able to drive a big rig seamlessly and foster safety on the road.