The life of a truck driver may vary from one to the other. Whenever you hear their stories about their experiences and the road, it may sound like something you’d be interested in. We’ll talk about what it’s like being a semi-truck driver, especially one that can drive from California to Maine in one haul if the need arises.
What it takes to get there
One of the first things you need to do to become a semi-truck driver is to obtain a Class A CDL. What is a Class A CDL, you ask? It’s a Class A Commercial Driver’s License – which allows you to operate a semi tractor trailer truck.
You must have this in order to operate vehicles that weigh over 26,000 pounds. It also must have the capability to tow any additional weight behind them. A CDL A will be a prerequisite that you must meet in order to drive these trucks.
Learning to drive a trick can be a challenge. But rest assured, you’ll be able to get a top quality education from NETTTS Truck Driving School. Even with no prior experience, you’ll learn the ins and outs of operating these trucks.
Before you know it, you’ll be able to take on the jobs that require qualified drivers like you.
The trips can get long
Some trips may be longer than others (and some may be shorter between your home base and destination). Not only that, but you’ll be on the road for hours at a time. It can also mean being away from home over a period of several days.
Some truck drivers may have families and others may not. It’s different from one driver to another. But the open road and the freedom that comes with it can be rewarding for many, but a sacrifice for some.
The good news is that you can get paid a good amount of money. Sometimes, the sacrifice is worth the money taking care of yourself and your family. If you have no familial obligations, it can be an opportunity to save for the future – whatever it may be.
Regardless, you do get to see a good part of the country. Whether you’re hauling goods from one part of the country to another, you can get to see a fair share of America.
You need to follow safety procedures – even by law
During these trips, you need to make sure everything is in working order. If the tires on your semi-truck need to be rotated or changed – it’s important to take care of them as soon as possible. You’ll also want to follow any laws and regulations that require you to make pre-trip inspections as well as logging in mileage, time, and other pieces of information.
One rule to follow is the 14-hour driving window: which states you can drive for 14 consecutive hours. But this is not within a 24-hour period. You can do this after 11 hours of being off duty for 10 or more consecutive hours.
Conclusion
Being a semi-truck driver has its advantages and perks. Seeing the country may be one of them. Whether it’s from California to Maine or North Carolina to Washington State, you can enjoy the life of being a semi-truck driver and get the best pay and benefits possible.
It’s not just a job, it can be a way of life. Is over the road truck driving something you’re interested in? Be sure to take the right education courses to obtain your CDL A and then get the truck driving jobs you desire.
