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Truck Drivers

Overview

Truck drivers generally are distinguished by the distance they travel. Over-the-road drivers, also known as long-distance drivers or tractor-trailer drivers, haul freight over long distances in large trucks and tractor-trailer rigs that are usually diesel-powered. Depending on the specific operation, over-the-road drivers also load and unload the shipments and make minor repairs to vehicles. Short-haul drivers or pickup and delivery drivers operate trucks that transport materials, merchandise, and equipment within a limited area, usually a single city or metropolitan area. There are more than 1.8 million heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers and 923,050 light truck or delivery service drivers employed in the United States.

Salary Range

Below $25,000 to $75,000

Minimum Education Level

Some Postsecondary Training

Certification/License

Required

Outlook

Little Change or More Slowly than the Average
Personality Traits

Conventional

Hands On

Technical

Career Ladder
Owner-Operator

Driver Supervisor, or Dispatcher, or Terminal Manager

Over-the-Road Driver

Local Truck Driver

Driver Helper

Related Professions