Thinking About Going Into Truck Driving

Hello Everyone,

I’m considering making a career change into truck driving. I’ve spent the last two decades working as a teacher, but now, in my 50s, I’m looking for a new path. Since I’m still too young to collect my pension, I’d like to use this time to save some money over the next few years.

At this point, I don’t anticipate staying in trucking for more than five years, but who knows? Maybe I’ll enjoy it enough to stick around longer. I’ve always wanted to drive a rig, and I’d love the chance to see the country and do some sightseeing if time permits.

Interestingly, my brother, who retired after working as a diesel mechanic for a transportation company, said I’m crazy for considering this! Still, I’m curious to know if my objectives are realistic and whether this is a path worth pursuing.

I’m here to learn more about the industry and hear from experienced drivers about what to expect, especially as someone making a mid-career change.

Thanks in advance for your advice and insight!

Hello Alex! Welcome to our forum!

Trucking can be a great way to see the country, but I wouldn't count on a lot of "sight seeing." You will be doing a job, and it typically has tight schedules. If you like working long days, like 14 to 16 hours, you could conceivably burn up your 70 hours and have to take 34 hours off. The timing of that break could determine whether you are in an area that holds an interest for you. I've done some sight seeing over the years, but it's hit or miss on when it actually works out right.

I love this career and would encourage anyone like you to give it a shot. It's something you can easily walk away from if it isn't working for you. I say that with a caveat... I highly recommend you make a one year commitment. It honestly takes that much time to understand the career and make an honest attempt at doing it right.

If you have the inclination, I know My New Book would be a big help to you. It's been receiving great reviews, and I'm confident it would help you considerably as you ponder this career change.

Welcome to the club! I taught middle school math for twelve years, and moved to the relative peace and quiet of an 18 wheel cab. I moved into a trucker career about with years ago.

Your brother may be right, or you can show him where he's wrong. At any rate, you don't hint at any research, so you can start at the beginning. This Trucking Truth web site is built to help wanna be's, CDL students and rookies get into the cab and be successful.

The hamburger menu at the top left is the T of C for all things trucking. There's a Career Guide, and a great CDL permit test prep .

Old School beat me the be the first to answer (read his book!).

Good luck, and stop in often!

Thank you, Errol and Old School,

After doing some research, I’ve found that I like the idea of staying on the move. The concept of hauling doubles and triples in LTL shipping from terminal to terminal sounds particularly interesting to me. I’ve always loved the open highway, but I’m still very new to this field and don’t fully understand all the possibilities, as well as the advantages and disadvantages.

Looking forward to learning more!

Doubles/Triples endorsement is simply a test you take. You can get that elsewhere along with your permit. Triples happen only in some Western states.

LTL (the most common doubles setup) are often line haul assignments where you take the same route every shift. The big 53 foot trailers are the ones used for OTR and go all over. If you want to see the USA, look for OTR, which is the most common assignment for new drivers. Check out Truck Driver's Career Guide Chapter 6 for more information.