How Much Do CDL Drivers Make?
A career as a CDL driver offers many rewards, especially for individuals who enjoy independence, travel, and job stability. With the demand for truck drivers rising due to an increase in shipping needs across industries, this is an excellent time to explore a career in commercial driving. But a key question many prospective drivers have is: How much do CDL drivers make?
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at CDL driver income, explore the factors that influence salary, and provide an overview of what truck drivers can expect to earn in different roles and industries.
What is a CDL Driver?
A CDL driver is someone who holds a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which is required to operate large vehicles like tractor-trailers, buses, or heavy trucks. This license is crucial for jobs in the trucking and transportation industries. CDL drivers can transport goods across short distances within cities or undertake long-haul trips, covering thousands of miles across states and regions.
What Factors Affect CDL Driver Income?
The salary of a truck driver can vary widely depending on several factors. Here are some key elements that impact how much a CDL driver can expect to make:
- Experience: Newer drivers tend to earn lower wages, but as experience grows, so does pay. Some trucking companies reward seasoned drivers with higher salaries and bonuses.
- Location: Where you work matters. Drivers in high-demand areas or states with higher costs of living tend to earn more. Regions with severe weather or challenging routes may also pay better.
- Type of driving: Long-haul drivers (over-the-road) typically earn more than local drivers who return home each night. Specialized driving, such as hazardous materials (HAZMAT) or oversized loads, can significantly boost income.
- Industry: CDL drivers working in specialized sectors like construction, oil and gas, or manufacturing may earn more than those in general freight.
- Company benefits: Some trucking companies offer additional benefits, such as bonuses for safe driving, signing bonuses, health insurance, and retirement plans, which add to the overall compensation package.
Average Salary for CDL Drivers
So, how much does a CDL driver make? According to recent data, the average CDL driver income in the U.S. can range from $45,000 to $75,000 per year. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
National Average Salary for CDL Drivers:
- Entry-level drivers: $45,000 – $50,000 per year
- Experienced drivers: $55,000 – $75,000 per year
- Specialized or long-haul drivers: $80,000+ per year
Regional Differences in Salary:
- Northeast: $55,000 – $75,000
- Midwest: $50,000 – $65,000
- South: $45,000 – $60,000
- West: $60,000 – $80,000
Types of CDL Driving Jobs and Their Pay
The specific type of CDL driving job you pursue can also impact your CDL driver income. Below are a few common types of CDL drivers and their average salary expectations:
- Long-Haul Truck Drivers (OTR Drivers): These drivers spend weeks on the road, covering long distances across states. They tend to earn more, with average salaries ranging from $65,000 to $80,000 annually.
- Local Truck Drivers: Local CDL drivers typically return home every day. They tend to earn a bit less than OTR drivers, with an average salary of $45,000 to $60,000 annually.
- Specialized Drivers: Drivers transporting hazardous materials (HAZMAT), tankers, or oversized loads typically command higher wages. Their annual income can range from $70,000 to $90,000 due to the added risk and skill required.
- Team Drivers: Team truck driving allows two drivers to share long-distance hauls, switching between shifts to keep the truck moving continuously. Team drivers can make between $80,000 and $100,000 annually when paired with a good partner and a high-demand route.
Additional Benefits for CDL Drivers
Aside from base salary, many truck driving jobs come with additional perks that contribute to total compensation. Here are some of the benefits that may be offered:
- Signing bonuses: Many trucking companies offer attractive signing bonuses to recruit new drivers. These bonuses can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more.
- Safety bonuses: Companies often reward drivers for safe driving records. These bonuses encourage safe and responsible driving and can add an extra $2,000 to $3,000 annually.
- Health and retirement benefits: CDL drivers who work for large companies often receive health insurance, dental, vision, and even retirement benefits such as 401(k) contributions.
- Per Diems: For long-haul drivers, some companies offer per diem allowances to cover food and other expenses while on the road, which can significantly boost total income.
Is a Career as a CDL Driver Right for You?
If you enjoy the idea of being on the open road, a career as a CDL driver can be both lucrative and fulfilling. With competitive pay, job security, and opportunities for advancement, truck driving offers a wide range of opportunities.
The growing demand for truck drivers across industries such as manufacturing, construction, and warehouse distribution also means that job prospects remain strong for the foreseeable future. Whether you’re interested in local routes or long-haul journeys, this career offers the flexibility to fit different lifestyles.
Start Your Career as a CDL Driver with NCW
Ready to take the wheel and start earning a competitive salary as a CDL driver? NCW’s expert recruiting team is here to help you find the perfect job that matches your experience, qualifications, and career goals. Whether you’re just starting or you’re an experienced truck driver, NCW can connect you with top employers in the industry.
Contact NCW today to learn more about current job openings for CDL drivers and take the first step toward your new career!
