{"id":1686,"date":"2023-09-07T05:47:39","date_gmt":"2023-09-07T10:47:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.skinnerdrivencdltraining.com\/?p=1686"},"modified":"2023-09-08T10:17:10","modified_gmt":"2023-09-08T15:17:10","slug":"becoming-successful-otr-truck-driver","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.skinnerdrivencdltraining.com\/blog\/career-advice-for-truckers\/becoming-successful-otr-truck-driver\/","title":{"rendered":"Exploring a Thriving Path: A Guide to Becoming a Successful OTR Truck Driver"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
For those considering a new career in truck driving, the world of Over-The-Road (OTR) trucking holds immense promise. While it involves long hours on the road, the opportunity to discover new places is a significant draw. Before you make the leap, however, understanding the requirements and demands of this profession is crucial to ensuring a successful journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An OTR truck driver is responsible for transporting goods over long distances, typically traveling between different cities or even across state lines. These commercial truck drivers transport a wide range of products and materials and play a vital role in the supply chain, ensuring that goods are delivered safely and on time to their intended destinations. OTR truck drivers often spend extended periods of time away from home, living on the road and making deliveries according to a predetermined schedule. They must possess a strong sense of responsibility to maintain the integrity of the cargo and ensure timely deliveries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To embark on this new career, the Department of Transportation (DOT) requires all professional truck drivers who drive across state lines to be at least 21 years old. You can obtain a CDL at the age of 18, but you will be limited to driving intrastate, and most trucking companies only hire CDL holders who are 21 years old and older.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Background checks are common during the hiring process, with a clean driving record and solid work history being essential factors. It’s worth familiarizing yourself with your state’s DMV regulations governing commercial driving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n