Career Facts for Truck Driver

What is a truck driver?

Truck drivers operate commercial vehicles that weigh over 10,000 pounds and are used in either intrastate or interstate travel. People must be able to safely operate a large.

Where are they employed?

Truck drivers are employed throughout the state of Michigan, the United States and Canada by both public and private motor carriers.

What is the average salary?

Truck drivers will normally start between $30,000 and $40,000 per year depending upon the employer and level of experience.  The salary is usually mile driven and is often influenced by the size of the truck.

What types of skills are required?

People must be able to safely operate a large displacement vehicle in all traffic conditions. Truck drivers also maintain records that are required by state and federal regulations and the employer.

What degree options are available at LCC?

Lansing Community College has been training tractor-trailer drivers since 1965.  Graduates of the program receive a certificate of completion from the college and will have met all necessary conditions to obtain a class "A" commercial driver license (CDL).

How do you register for this program?

This is a five-week program that runs five days a week, eight hours per day.  The training site is in Augusta, Michigan near Battle Creek.  To register, call the number below to receive an information packet, which includes an application form as well as information about dates, cost, etc.  There is limited enrollment, so there may be a short waiting period before starting the program.  For an application and information packet on Truck Driver Training, contact the TDT Program Office at (269) 731-4125 or toll free at (877) 544-3126.

Who would enjoy it?

Persons who enjoy driving in a variety of conditions and time lengths would enjoy this occupation. You must also enjoy working with a wide variety of people and be able to set work goals and follow them.

How many jobs are available?

Continued growth is expected to be faster than average over the next several years; truck driving has the largest amount of job openings per year. According to the American Trucking Association approximately 50,000 new drivers are needed each year.

How much schooling, training, or skill development?

High school diploma is highly recommended. The ability to plan complex trips using a road atlas is required. Most companies require the driver to be 21 years old as well as pass a physical examination every two years.