Becoming A Driver At 18?

Hi, im new to this site and im glad ive found it! im only 18 years old and have decided I want to become a truck driver, but im not quite sure where to start. Ive been doing a boat load of research and I know that being a driver at 18 can be very difficult and you can only drive in your state, Also I have found that I can not find any company that would hire anyone under 21. This is where you guys come in, I was wondering if any of you know what companies will hire or train to be a truck driver. I live in Florida and currently doing the high road training on this site. If any of you could help steer me in which direction to take it would be much appreciated!.

I don't know of any companies that would train an 18 year old but once you do have your CDL (or even now) you could look into local construction companies and builders.

Also, for the next 3 years and forever, really, keep your driving record, speeding, traffic violations really, really clean. Just don't speed. Sorry, I know that's tough at your age. It was for me as I loved driving and wanted to drive fast everywhere; but you have to stay clean because even at 21 or 22, it's still going to be tough to find jobs. Not as tough as now but tough.

Someone will correct me if I'm wrong but I thought you had to be 21 before you could even apply for a CDL according to DOT.

-mountain girl

Thanks for the reply! I figured I wouldn't be able to be a trucker until im a little older, but ill just study up for the tests and practice so in a few years ill pass the tests with a breeze! I do love driving everywhere Im already making my third trip to Indiana from Florida next week to pick up my quad! If anyone else reading this has any advice for me on what I should do while I wait for the next two years to pass by it would be greatly appreciated!.

I do believe there's an age requirment In most states.

No company will hire under 21. That's only due to insurance issues. Some may not hire tell you hit 23 again that's mainly insurance issues.

You are pretty much limited to instate travel as a driver. You can get your CDL at 18 but can not get interstate privileges until you are 21.

Now as for jobs, your best chance will be with road construction crews, city, state or county road/utility crews and even some gravel and cement companies. The only other option that I can think of is a bedbugger! Check with local moving companies.

You are probably going to be limited to a private school or community college for your training. Check into those. South Florida State has what looks to be a good program. They will teach you more than just passing the exam and I think it would be a good thing for you to start with.