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Starting a Career as a Commercial Truck Driver in Maryland

Maxine Carter

According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for a commercial truck driver in Maryland comes to an average of $58,200, but the salary varies based on the employer and experience. It’s a respectable salary that can allow you to make a living while spending most of your time on the road. If you are interested in becoming a commercial truck driver in Maryland, learn more about how to start a career as a commercial truck driver.

What Can I Drive with a CDL?

CDLs allow you to drive a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 26,000 lbs., a combination vehicle with a GVWR over 26,000 lbs, a towing vehicle over 10,000 lbs GVWR, or a passenger vehicle designed to carry 16 or more people, including the driver.

Obtaining Your CDL

One of the first steps in becoming a CDL driver is obtaining your CDL. A CDL is a commercial driver’s license. In order to qualify for a CDL, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a standard driver’s license. To start the process, you will need to obtain your CDL Learner Permit. To get the permit, you will need to fill out the application and pass your vision & knowledge tests. The entire process of obtaining your permit will cost $90. Once you have your learner permit, you can practice with qualified CDL drivers and teachers.

You will need to obtain a DOT physical exam. The DOT physical exam verifies that you are healthy enough to driver a commercial vehicle safely.

Some of the reasons you may fail your DOT exam include:

  • Poor vision
  • Hearing impairment
  • Diabetes
  • Epilepsy
  • Heart conditions
  • Stroke risks
  • Narcolepsy

You will also need to provide a copy of your driving record. Multiple infractions can disqualify you from getting your license. When you are ready to take your final drivers test, you will need to pay an additional $50. You will need to renew your CDL license regularly for a rate of $20.

Endorsement Codes

You can go through additional testing to get endorsement codes attached to your CDL license. These endorsement codes open the doors to additional employment opportunities.

CDL Endorsement codes include:

  • (T) Double or Triple trailers
  • (P) Passenger
  • (N) Tank vehicles
  • (H) Hazardous materials
  • (S) School Bus

Employment

Once you have completed the process of obtaining your CDL and endorsements. It is time to begin your job search. Research local and national trucking companies to find the right fit for you. Upon being hired by a trucking company, all Maryland truck drivers are subject to pre-employment drug testing as well as throughout their trucking career.

There are many opportunities for drivers in Maryland and across the US. Whether you are interested in being a long-haul trucker or a local driver, pursuing a career as a truck driver can be a great way to make money.