How to Get a Start in Trucking

Whether you are looking to make a late career change or are just out of school and ready to jump into a truck, there are a few things you need to do before you get that first truck driving job. Follow the 5 steps below and you will be a prime candidate for almost any trucking job!

Step 1: Go On a Ride-Along

If you've thought about becoming a company driver or an owner operator, find a trucker to ride along with. Don't go through the trouble of getting a CDL and gaining valuable job experience if you aren't certain this is the career for you. Work your connections or find a friend or a family member that will take you out on the road with them. 

Step 2: Get a Class A CDL

Some companies may work with you and help you earn a CDL, but it is best to be prepared and go to school first. If you've done a ride-along and know this is the career for you, go get your Class A CDL. Most CDL training only takes 1-3 months, so you will be trained and ready to go in no time! Check out this list of CDL Training programs near Sioux Falls.

Step 3: Get Some Experience

Trucking companies in South Dakota and the rest of the U.S. are looking for drivers with some experience. Obviously you can't come right out of school and have years of experience, but take advantage of the opportunities you can find. Go work on a farm and operate heavy machinery -or- drive delivery for your local beer company. Any large equipment or trucking experience will help you earn your first over the road trucking job.

Step 4: Keep That Job

Step 4 goes right along with Step 3. Once you land a delivery or farm job, keep it! No trucking company wants to see three different employers over the past year on your resume. In the trucking industry, and especially here at K & J, we want to hire team members that are in it for the long haul....or intermediate and regional routes. We want you to be a long-term family member, not just and interim employee.

Step 5: Apply at K & J Trucking

Once you have a year or more experience built up, start applying for trucking jobs. Of course we would prefer you apply to drive for K & J Trucking, but it never hurts to get your name out there to most of the trucking companies in the region.


Are you already on your way? We would love to talk to you!

If you are already on your way to becoming an over the road trucker, we would love the opportunity to talk to you. Simply fill out the form below, and we will reach out and answer any questions you may have about K & J or trucking in general.