A job as a truck driver can have both advantages and disadvantages. If you are thinking about making your living on the open road, it is best to think carefully about whether the job will be a good fit for your lifestyle and career goals.
Flexibility
Driving a truck can mean a job with a great deal of flexibility. Drivers often work for others but are generally only bound by the basic rules of the road when on assignment; some employers may, however, have additional policies. Driving a truck can also mean freedom from the standard 9-to-5 workday that accompanies most office jobs; many people in this field find they can set their own hours.
Salaries
Another important consideration when you're thinking about entering the trucking field is pay. Drivers typically earn average income in the United States. The average salary for a truck driver is about $50,000 a year. Many drivers make more with overtime that is often widely available.
Education
Driving a truck is also a good career choice if you wish to enter a field that does not require an extended amount of schooling. Many states allow drivers to get a commercial driving license with only a high school diploma and a passing score on a driving test. There are, however, truck-driving schools for people who wish to expand their understanding of the industry and potential job opportunities.
Challenges
While a career as a truck driver can be a good match for certain people, others may find the job unpleasant. Many truck drivers are away from home for extended periods of time. This can be tough if you plan to raise a family. Driving a truck can be a very lonely occupation due to the fact that there is little interaction with others. Driving a truck can also mean sitting down for many hours each day. If you prefer a more active job, trucking may not be ideal for you.
A job as a truck driver also requires a strong attention span. Hauling potentially hazardous materials over long distances and winding roads requires the ability to concentrate on a specific task for extended periods of time. Someone who prefers a job offering various challenges may not like to pay attention to one task for hours on end.
