Indiana Truck Driving Jobs | Frequently Asked Questions

Indiana Truck Driving Jobs FAQ

How long does a career in the trucking industry last?

You can keep a job in the industry as long as you are able to pass the physical exam set by the Department of Transportation (which is required every two years), random drug testing from your employer, and pass appropriate tests as you renew your CDL.

Is the truck driving industry stable?
Almost everything that sits on the store shelf has been delivered via truck. The agricultural, lumber, automobile, mining, retail, and thousands of other industries rely on commercial truck drivers. Internet retailers also depend on the trucking industry to deliver items to warehouses throughout the nation. Since there is such a strong need for truck drivers, you will always be able to find a good driving job no matter where you live.

Where are the most trucking jobs in the state of Indiana?

Like many other jobs, more are available in heavily populated areas, which include Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and Evansville.

If I am thinking about leasing or purchasing my own diesel truck, what models should I look at?

The most popular brands of trailer tractors in the United States are Peterbilt, Mack, Freightliner, and Kenworth. You will want to consider the types of loads you will be pulling when determining what tractor you purchase.

How old do you have to be to drive a tractor trailer?
In some states you can begin driving at the age of eighteen (only if you are not going across state borders). If you are going across state borders, you must be 21 years old. Many Indiana trucking companies prefer that you are 25 years old and have some experience behind the wheel.

My job requires me to have a HazMat endorsement. How do I get one?

To receive your HazMat endorsement, you will need to receive additional training (either through a truck driving school or your current employer) and pass the written exam. The Department of Transportation will also perform a detailed background check before you are given the endorsement.

How much does a tractor and trailer cost?
In most cases, a new tractor and trailer cost over $150,000. The cost of a used tractor and used trailer varies, depending on where you buy them from. There are many trucking companies that offer lease programs that allow you to lease a truck from them instead of having to pay for one up-front.

What types of Indiana truck driving jobs are normally available?

Corn, cattle, and steel are all important to the state’s economy. Many high-tech industries have also found a home in Indiana. As the population of Indiana continues to grow, so do the lumber, glass, and construction industries, all of which have a need for truck driving services.

How much money can I make as a truck driver in Indiana?
Like many careers, the more experience you have, the more likely you are to make a large income. Truck drivers with several years of experience have been known to make six-figure incomes. Most truck drivers are paid per mile; company drivers can make as much as 50 cents a mile while independent contractors (who either own or lease their own truck) can make as much as $1.50 a mile.