Whether you’re a new CDL driver or a seasoned professional, landing your next trucking job starts with preparation.
From gathering work history to ensuring your background checks out and mastering the interview, each step helps you stand out to carriers. Keep reading to discover how to get ready for your next opportunity with confidence.
Gather Your Work History and Key Details
Before you start filling out job applications or updating your resume, it’s essential to collect all the information you’ll need. Trucking companies are required to verify certain details, so having this ready will save you time and prevent mistakes.
Be sure to gather:
- Employment history for the past 10 years: Include company names, locations, positions, and dates worked.
- Driving experience: List the types of equipment you’ve driven (dry van, reefer, flatbed, tanker, etc.) and your total miles or years of experience.
- License information: CDL class, endorsements, and expiration dates.
- Accident and violation history: Be honest and specific, as carriers are sure to verify this information.
- References: Keep a few professional references ready, such as former supervisors or trainers.
Having these details in one place, whether in a spreadsheet, notebook, or document, makes the process of applying much faster.
Use Application Tools to Your Advantage
Once you’ve gathered your information, you will need to complete a Department of Transportation (DOT) compliant application. Many carriers use an applicant tracking system with a digital application to help streamline the process. Other platforms and job boards offer similar tools that integrate directly with many carriers’ recruiting systems, which means your information can be verified and reviewed quickly while saving you time and keeping you organized. Ultimately, you will need to complete the application for each individual carrier with your consent authorizing them to complete a pre-employment background check including your driving record, criminal, and employment history.
Tips for getting the most out of these tools:
- Take your time filling it out the first time. Once you complete your profile, you can reuse it across applications, so it’s worth entering everything carefully.
- Keep your information up to date. If you change employers, get new endorsements, or update your medical card, log in and make those edits.
- Review for accuracy. Make sure there are no typos or missing employment dates, since these can slow down verification.
- Be honest and transparent. Carriers appreciate drivers who provide complete and accurate information upfront.
- Save your login details. These systems are designed to make future applications easier, so you’ll want to be able to access your profile anytime.
Online applications can save you hours of repetitive work and help you connect with reputable carriers faster. You can think of them as an extension of your resume, a professional profile that gets you in front of hiring managers quickly and efficiently.
Make Sure Your Background Info Matches
Before submitting applications, take a moment to verify your own records. Carriers will run several checks as part of the hiring process, and small discrepancies can cause delays or rejections.
Check the following:
- Your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR): Review for accuracy and note any violations.
- Your PSP (Pre-Employment Screening Program) report: This shows your inspection and crash history. You can order your own copy from the FMCSA website.
- Employment verification details: Ensure the names and contact information for previous employers are current.
If you notice any errors, start the process of correcting them before applying. Being proactive shows responsibility and can prevent confusion later in the hiring process.
Build a Resume That Highlights What Matters
A resume for truck driving doesn’t need to be fancy, but it should clearly show your qualifications and experience. Many carriers ask for this along with an application, especially for specialized or higher-paying positions.
Include these key sections:
- Contact information: Full name, phone, email, and home city/state.
- Summary or objective: A short statement about what kind of role you’re looking for and what you bring to the table.
- Driving experience: List your recent jobs with a short description of responsibilities, types of freight, and any notable accomplishments (such as safety awards or accident-free miles).
- Certifications and endorsements: Hazmat, tanker, doubles/triples, or TWIC card.
- Education and training: CDL school, safety courses, or other relevant credentials.
If you’ve been in the industry a long time, focus on your last 5-10 years unless earlier experience adds value. Recruiters are looking for recent, verified experience above all.
Prepare for the Interview
Once your application and resume stand out, the next step is the interview. For drivers, this may take place over the phone, via video call, or in person at a terminal or orientation site.
Phone or Virtual Interviews:
- Find a quiet space: Eliminate background noise and distractions.
- Have your information ready: Keep your work history and license details in front of you.
- Speak clearly and confidently: Be honest about your experience and show enthusiasm for the opportunity.
- Ask questions: Inquire about routes, home time, pay structure, and company culture. It shows that you’re serious about finding the right fit.
In-Person Interviews:
- Dress neatly: You don’t need formal clothes, but clean, professional attire makes a strong impression.
- Be on time: Arriving early shows reliability, which is something carriers value highly.
- Bring documents: Have copies of your CDL, medical card, and any certifications.
- Show your professionalism: Greet your interviewer with confidence, maintain eye contact, and thank them for their time.
Remember, interviews in the trucking industry are often about finding mutual fit. Companies want safe, dependable drivers who align with their values and work expectations.
Follow Up Professionally
After the interview, it’s always helpful to send a short thank-you message or email if possible. It doesn’t have to be long, just a quick note to express appreciation and reiterate your interest is plenty. For example:
“Thank you for taking the time to speak with me about the [company name] driving position. I appreciate the opportunity to learn more about your fleet and look forward to the possibility of joining your team.”
A polite follow-up helps you stand out in a crowded applicant pool and reinforces your professionalism.
Wondering about other ways to stay ahead of the curve in the transportation industry in 2025? Be sure to check out more posts on our blog and connect with us on social media!
