How To Find CDL Jobs

This is a great time to be looking for CDL jobs, since trucking companies have reported a shortage of qualified truckers. With a little legwork and a good history, you're bound to find the right job for your needs. Here's how to get started:

Enroll in an accredited CDL training program. Many trucking companies recruit new drivers from these training programs; trainees are hired after they successfully earn the CDL certification.

Understand your options. If you have a CDL, there are many types of driving available, including local, long-distance, specialized, hazardous material cargo (requires extra training), and independent driving. You can work for grocery stores, furniture stores, building-supply companies, or construction companies, among many others. You might even find non-driving jobs, like supervisor or dispatcher.

Use search engines. There are numerous online search engines available for CDL trucking jobs, where you can search by state, truck type, or company. Check these websites for new listings frequently, at least every few days.

Check the classifieds. Sometimes the classified advertisement sections of your local and regional newspapers have CDL jobs that online search engines don't list. Take time each week to sit down with the paper and go over the ads.

Maintain a flawless record. Don't get yourself in a position in which you can't use your last CDL job as a reference because of a poor professional or personal history with that company. A CDL driver needs to have solid references. Keep copies of your license information available, and follow up on any job leads.