How Old Is Too Old To Start As A Truck Driver?
Topic 18781 | Page 1
58 is young compared to some of the folks on here that are driving and started at that age and older.
As long as you can pass a DOT physical, and have no disabilities - you're good to go.
Rick
DOT:
Department Of Transportation
A department of the federal executive branch responsible for the national highways and for railroad and airline safety. It also manages Amtrak, the national railroad system, and the Coast Guard.
State and Federal DOT Officers are responsible for commercial vehicle enforcement. "The truck police" you could call them.
I started at 59 and I believe at least one other is even older. The companies don't really care as long as you're healthy, unless you're going flatbed.
I started later in life too.i don't think your to old to start.It really depends on what you want.you may want to consider how much you need to invest to get started and how much income you'll need plus how many more years you want to work.also consider family life because obviously you'll be spending time on the road.if it's what you really want you should do it good luck to you.
Kanelin repeats a rumor:
I started at 59 and I believe at least one other is even older
I signed on with Swift's truck driving school two years ago, when I was only 64. Later I met a driver who really looked older, but I didn't ask his age.
As Rick states, 1. Pass the CDL written test and 2. Pass the physical. Bam!, you'll have a job.
CDL:
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
A CDL is required to drive any of the following vehicles:
- Any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, providing the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.
- Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing another not in excess of 10,000 pounds.
- Any vehicle, regardless of size, designed to transport 16 or more persons, including the driver.
- Any vehicle required by federal regulations to be placarded while transporting hazardous materials.
Old School is quickly nearing his triple- digits. I have lots of respect and compassion for him considering his old age, if he can do it you can too! Good luck
I truly think trucking companies may even seek out or encourage older drivers. At 47, I feel I was respected and received better treatment than some 20somethings in cdl school. There aren't many surprises left in our advanced years.
CDL:
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
A CDL is required to drive any of the following vehicles:
- Any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, providing the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.
- Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing another not in excess of 10,000 pounds.
- Any vehicle, regardless of size, designed to transport 16 or more persons, including the driver.
- Any vehicle required by federal regulations to be placarded while transporting hazardous materials.
I will be 56 in a few months and just starting out, leaving IT after 20 plus years, where age discrimination is real. I have yet to hear a recruiter hesitate when I tell them how old I am, try that in Corporate America. I say go for it.
Is there anyone here that doesn't double my age?!
Com'n.
Is there anyone here that doesn't double my age?!
Com'n.
25 years old.
New Reply:
New! Check out our help videos for a better understanding of our forum features
Preview:
This topic has the following tags:
Becoming A Truck Driver Choosing A Trucking Company Older truck drivers
Why Join Trucking Truth?
- The High Road Training Program
- The High Road Article Series
- The Friendliest Trucker's Forum Ever!
- Email Updates When New Articles Are Posted
Apply For Paid CDL Training Through TruckingTruth
Did you know you can fill out one quick form here on TruckingTruth and apply to several companies at once for paid CDL training? Seriously! The application only takes one minute. You will speak with recruiters today. There is no obligation whatsoever. Learn more and apply here:
TT On Facebook
I am interested in trying truck driving but one of my concerns is my age. I turned 58 this past February and just had an exam by my primary physician and it went well. I have high blood pressure but I have had it since 1984 and it has not stop me from anything. I realize that employers are not suppose to discriminate against my age but I am seeking a truthful answer along with any opinions. Thanks.