How long does it take to become a truck driver?
Truck drivers earn a median of about $54,000 a year (about $26/hour) in the US — from around $38,000 entering the field to $76,000+ at the top. Becoming one usually takes about 1 year: CDL training (weeks). A CDL takes just weeks — among the fastest paths to a solid paycheck.
Truck driver salary
| Entry level (10th percentile) | $38,000 |
| Median (typical) | $54,000 |
| Experienced (90th percentile) | $76,000+ |
| Median hourly | $26/hr |
Approximate US figures based on public wage data (BLS OEWS). Actual pay varies by employer, experience and location.
The path to becoming a truck driver
- 1Meet age and record requirements
- 2Complete CDL training (3–7 weeks)
- 3Pass the CDL exam
- 4Start with a carrier (often paid training)
What you need
- Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
- Clean driving record + DOT physical
Trucking offers one of the quickest routes to a middle-income job.
Truck driver salary by state
Local pay varies with cost of living. See an estimate for your state:
Truck driver — frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a truck driver?
It usually takes about 1 year. The typical path: Meet age and record requirements; Complete CDL training (3–7 weeks); Pass the CDL exam; Start with a carrier (often paid training).
How much do truck drivers make?
The median pay is about $54,000 a year ($26/hour). Most earn between roughly $38,000 and $76,000, depending on experience, employer and location. See the state pages for local estimates.
Do you need a degree to become a truck driver?
Entry requires: Commercial Driver's License (CDL); Clean driving record + DOT physical. Trucking offers one of the quickest routes to a middle-income job.
Related careers
General information to help you plan a career — not career, legal or financial advice. Salary figures are estimates and training times are typical routes; both vary by state, program and individual. Check official sources and accredited programs before making decisions.