Starting your new career as a truck driver 

Have you ever wondered, “How do you become a truck driver?” Swift Transportation is here to provide you with some helpful tips for new truck drivers and aspiring ones. Allow us to demonstrate the process of becoming a truck driver and how to set yourself up for success! 

How to become a truck driver with no experience 

It is now easier than ever to become a truck driver without prior experience. Trucking companies like Swift Transportation offer paid CDL Training through their over-the-road training program for new drivers. Now is the time to become a truck driver.  

Before you start your life on the road as a Swift driver, you will need to submit an application for CDL Training. Once you’re accepted and officially enroll in the program, your experience will include the following next steps:  

• Attending CDL Training (Truck Driving School)
• Obtaining your Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL License)
• Completing Over-the-Road Training (OTR Training) with a mentor 

What do you learn from a CDL Training Program? 

If you earn your Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with the Swift Academy, you will have the opportunity learn:  

• A working knowledge of trucking equipment.
• Advanced safety training to ensure the safest experience. 
• Training on the latest model trucks and trucking technology. 
• Training needed to start a truck driving job with confidence. 
• Knowledgeable instructors with decades of Class A experience. 
• Hands-on training with plenty of time in the cab and behind the wheel. 

How long does it take to become a truck driver? 

Like many professional training processes, kickstarting the career path for truck drivers varies depending on the person and truck driving program.  

Depending on the CDL school program, it typically takes 4 weeks to complete truck driving school to earn your CDL license.  Which is then followed by additional Over-the-Road (OTR) training.  

Is truck driving a good career choice? 

Choosing a career as a truck driver is an excellent choice. From competitive benefits packages to career advancement opportunities, trucking has been found to be one of the highest paid positions that doesn’t require a college degree. It is possible for a first year truck driver salary to exceed the National average starting salary for those with comparable experience and education levels. Long-term experienced drivers have the opportunity to realistically grow their pay into the six-figures within the span of their career. 

Truck driver benefit packages can include but are not limited to: 

• PTO Plan
• 401K Match 
• Competitive Pay 
• Weekly Paycheck 
• Stock Purchase Plan 
• Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life Insurance 

Want to become a truck driver? 

If you find yourself intrigued by the thought of becoming a professional driver, today may be the day to kickstart an ultra-rewarding CDL career path with Swift Transportation. See why we’re one of the best trucking companies for new drivers.  

Whether you’re already a trucking trainee or considering making an exciting career change to become one: We want to hear from you!