Working as a truck driver is a responsible occupation that requires not only experience and skills, but also the availability of special licenses and certificates. If you want to become a professional driver, it is important to understand what documents you will need and how to get them.

Basic license requirements

The first and most important document for truck drivers is a Commercial driver’s License (CDL). In the United States, it is mandatory for anyone who drives a certain type of vehicle, such as large trucks, buses and other large vehicles.

Getting a CDL

To get a CDL, you need to meet several requirements:

1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old for domestic transportation and at least 21 years old for international transportation. This is important because international transportation often involves longer and more complex routes that require more experience.
2. Medical report: It is required to undergo a medical examination and get a certificate from a doctor. The driver’s health is of critical importance, as work involves long journeys and requires excellent physical fitness.
3. Training: It is necessary to complete training at an accredited driving school. Good driving schools provide not only theoretical knowledge, but also practical skills, which is very important for successful passing the exam.
4. Theoretical and practical exam: After completing the training, you take exams on knowledge of theory and practical driving skills. The exams test your knowledge of traffic rules, road safety and the ability to drive large vehicles.

CDL Classes

There are three classes of CDL:

• Class A: For drivers driving vehicles with a total weight of more than 26,001 pounds, including trailers weighing more than 10,000 pounds. This class allows you to drive the heaviest and largest trucks, which opens up more opportunities in the labor market.
• Class B: For vehicles weighing more than 26,001 pounds, but with trailers weighing up to 10,000 pounds. This class is suitable for bus drivers and some types of trucks.
• Class C: For vehicles carrying 16 or more passengers or dangerous goods. This class is necessary to work with certain special types of transportation.

Additional certificates

In addition to CDL, truck drivers may need additional certificates depending on the specifics of their work:

·      HAZMAT. If you are going to transport dangerous goods, you will need a HAZMAT certificate. To obtain it, you need to undergo special training and pass an exam on knowledge of safety rules for the transportation of hazardous materials. It is important to note that cdl drivers looking for work with this certificate often receive better deals. This certificate confirms your qualifications and knowledge of special procedures, which makes you a more valuable specialist in the labor market.

· Certificate for passenger transportation. If you plan to work as a driver of a bus or other vehicle carrying passengers, you will need an additional certificate. It confirms that you have received special training and are able to safely manage transport with passengers. This certificate is especially important for working in school buses or travel companies, where passenger safety comes first.

· Certificate for the transportation of bulky goods. A special certificate will be required for the transportation of oversized and heavy goods. This document confirms that you have been trained in driving vehicles carrying such goods and know all the rules and requirements for their transportation.

Conclusion

Working as a truck driver is not only a good opportunity to earn money, but also a responsible occupation that requires special knowledge and skills. Obtaining a CDL and additional certificates will open up many opportunities for you and make you a sought-after specialist in the field of cargo transportation.