Some careers have a very clear path you must follow in order to qualify to do that job. To be a doctor, you have to go to college, attend medical school, and complete your residency. To be a teacher, you get a bachelor’s degree, apply for licensure, and have a year of student teaching. But how do you become a truck driver with a company like Bay & Bay Transportation? Here are the 5 steps you need to take in order to start your career in truck driving in Minneapolis, Minnesota:
1. Get Your GED or High School Diploma
While only some actually require a high school diploma, many trucking companies prefer that you have it. Also, a high school diploma or GED is the baseline level of education that will help you get a job in most industries. It’s in your best interest to finish your high school education.
2. Keep a Clean Driving Record
Before offering you a position, the transportation company will check your driving record for traffic violations. While having a parking ticket or two may not raise a red flag, several DUIs or crash reports could end your truck driving career before it starts. Having these items on your record makes you an insurance liability and unreliable hire. Many companies also participate in the Driver Pre-Employment Screening Program, which is an additional screening program sponsored by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Department of Transportation (DOT).
3. Get Your CDL
Because the vehicle is so much larger and heavier, truck driving is quite different from driving your car or pick-up truck. A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is required to become a truck driver and is issued by the Minnesota state government. Getting your CDL can be a long process as it involves obtaining a learner’s permit, practicing behind the wheel with an instructor, plus passing knowledge and skills tests. Many people choose to go to a CDL driving school to get the proper training to receive their license
4. Pass the DOT Medical Exam
Driving a commercial truck is a surprisingly physical job. Being healthy is important for your safety as a truck driver and also to those on the road around you. If you are unable to physically control your vehicle, you can do serious harm to other motorists, which is why you must pass a physical exam conducted by a licensed medical examiner.
5. Apply for Jobs
Once you have your license and all your certifications in place, it’s time to apply for jobs. The easiest way to find open positions for truck driver is by checking transportation company websites or online job boards. Bay & Bay Transportation is looking to hire company drivers and owner-operators, and with an estimated shortage of 20,000 drivers per year, many companies are eager to hire new drivers.
After following these five steps, you will be well on your way to a rewarding career in truck driving. If you are interested in joining the team of truck drivers at Bay & Bay transportation, give a us a call at 888-801-3026 or visit our driver opportunities page.