Men have historically dominated trucking, but times are changing quickly. More and more women are hitting the open road. Many women are curious about truck driving but aren’t sure where to start. Being a woman truck driver isn’t just possible it could be the career you’ve been looking for. Here are the steps you can take to get yourself behind the wheel of a big rig.
Getting Your CDL to Become a Women Truck Driver
Your commercial driver’s license—CDL—is the key to starting your career as a truck driver. But women can face unique obstacles in this male-dominated profession. It’s crucial to call around and talk to the training schools to find out how the school offers CDL training for women and whether they offer a schedule that works with your transition to the trucking world. You will need to meet specific qualifications, including:
- Passing a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical
- Passing a DOT drug screen
- Meet the age requirements
- Have a good driving record
The training school can call the CDL Help Line to determine if you have any issues with your driving record that might prevent you from earning your CDL. You may also want to ask if there are any women instructors or how many female students are currently attending.
After You Earn Your CDL
Before you begin your training, ask the schools on your list about their CDL training for women and how successfully they have placed other women in open truck driving positions. There is a shortage of drivers currently, but it’s crucial to find a fleet that will respect you for your skill as a driver, regardless of your gender. If other women have complained about a company’s policies, then chances are, they might not be a good fit for you.
Be Self-Motivated
Ask women truckers what they love about trucking, and many will say they love being on the open road. However, trucking requires a person to be self-motivated. You’re responsible for getting up on time and getting the miles in. You’ll also want to develop the habit of carefully planning your route and stops to maximize your safety.
More women than ever before are turning to truck driving as a career. If you’re feeling stuck and you’d like to earn a good living while exploring the country, then consider becoming a truck driver. It could be the best move you make!
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