How to Be Tractor Trailer Driver - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 20, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Tractor Trailer Drivers are essential members of the transportation industry, responsible for operating large trucks to transport goods and materials. The job requires a high level of skill, as well as the ability to drive safely and responsibly. As a result, tractor trailer drivers have a significant impact on the economy, as well as on the safety of other drivers on the road.

Their skill and expertise helps ensure that goods and materials are delivered in a timely manner, allowing businesses to remain productive and successful. by taking necessary safety precautions, these drivers help reduce the risk of accidents and keep roads safe for everyone.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). To operate a tractor trailer, you must first obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a Class A classification. To do so, you must be at least 21 years old, pass a physical exam, pass the written knowledge and skills tests, and provide proof of identity.
Obtain on-the-job training. Most employers require on-the-job training before you can start driving a tractor trailer. This could involve learning to drive a tractor trailer in a variety of situations (e. g. , in traffic, in bad weather, etc. ).
Take a driver safety course. Taking a driver safety course is an important step for anyone who wants to become a tractor trailer driver. This course will help you learn the rules of the road, as well as how to safely operate a tractor trailer.
Meet all requirements for employment. Many companies require their drivers to meet certain requirements before they can be hired, such as having a clean driving record, passing a drug test, and having a valid CDL.
Find a job as a tractor trailer driver. Once you have met all the necessary requirements, you can start looking for jobs as a tractor trailer driver. You can search online or in your local area for available positions.
Get hired. Once you have found a job as a tractor trailer driver, you will need to go through the hiring process. This typically involves submitting an application, submitting to a background check and drug test, and completing any other required paperwork. Once you have been hired, you can start your new job as a tractor trailer driver!

Tractor trailer drivers are essential to our economy because they transport goods to various locations. This occupation requires a great deal of skill and knowledge to be successful. Truck drivers must be aware of the rules and regulations of the road, as well as knowing how to safely maneuver a large vehicle.

they must be familiar with the loading and unloading procedures for their cargo. Furthermore, tractor trailer drivers must possess the ability to stay focused and alert for long periods of time, as well as being able to manage their stress levels in order to ensure safe driving practices. Without the expertise and dedication of these skilled professionals, our economy would suffer immensely.

You may want to check Motorized Handcart Driver, Courier Driver, and Commercial Vehicle Driver for alternative.

Job Description

Operate tractor-trailer vehicle to transport goods, materials and products to and from specified destinations.
Load and unload freight from truck.
Inspect vehicle for mechanical items and safety issues and perform preventative maintenance.
Follow appropriate safety procedures for transporting hazardous materials.
Keep records of cargo and hours worked.
Follow all applicable traffic laws and regulations.
Communicate with dispatchers or other personnel to receive delivery instructions and determine pick-up or delivery locations.
Prepare delivery paperwork and other documentation related to deliveries.
Plan routes and meet delivery schedules.
Conduct pre-trip inspections to ensure vehicle is safe and in good working order.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of applicable traffic laws and regulations
Ability to read and interpret road maps and follow written and verbal directions
Excellent driving skills and the ability to maneuver large vehicles in tight spaces
Ability to comply with federal, state, and local regulations, including hours of service, weight limits, and hazardous material transportation laws
Ability to inspect and maintain tractor-trailer equipment
Ability to lift and carry heavy items
Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures
Ability to operate auxiliary machinery such as winches and lift gates
Mechanical aptitude for minor repairs and preventive maintenance
Ability to keep accurate records of trips and deliveries
Excellent customer service skills
Ability to work independently or with a team

Having the right skill set is essential for a tractor trailer driver to be successful. One of the most important skills a tractor trailer driver must have is the ability to stay calm and composed in difficult situations. Poor decisions made in a stressful environment can lead to costly accidents, property damage, and even loss of life.

being able to navigate long distances as quickly and as safely as possible is essential. A tractor trailer driver should have knowledge of the rules of the road, and be familiar with the laws and regulations related to cargo, weight limits, and safe driving practices. Furthermore, having the ability to think quickly and make sound decisions under pressure is crucial for the safe transport of goods and people.

Finally, good communication skills are a must, as drivers must interact with dispatchers and other drivers regularly. having the right skillset is what will allow a tractor trailer driver to reach their full potential in this important field.

Bus Driver, Ambulance Driver, and Motorcycle Delivery Driver are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have driving a tractor trailer?
How many hours of continuous driving have you completed?
What safety measures do you take when driving a tractor trailer?
Have you ever been in an accident while driving a tractor trailer?
How do you ensure the cargo is secure for transport?
Are you familiar with the Department of Transportation regulations for operating a tractor trailer?
How do you keep your log book up to date when driving?
What do you do in the event of a breakdown while on the road?
What route planning techniques do you use to make your deliveries on time?
Do you have experience driving in inclement weather conditions?

Common Tools in Industry

Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Required to legally operate a tractor trailer, this license allows drivers to transport goods over long distances. (Eg: A CDL is needed to drive an 18-wheeler truck on public highways. )
Logbook. A record of drivers hours and activities while on the road, used to comply with regulations. (Eg: Drivers must log their total hours and rest times in a logbook. )
Load Securement Equipment. Used to fasten and secure cargo inside a trailer. (Eg: Chain binders and straps are used to secure a load in a trailer. )
GPS Navigation System. Used to determine the best route to take when transporting cargo. (Eg: A GPS system helps drivers find the most efficient route to their destination. )
Transportation Management System (TMS). Computerized software used to plan and monitor trips. (Eg: TMS can track the location of trailers, coordinate deliveries, and manage paperwork. )

Professional Organizations to Know

National Private Truck Council (NPTC)
American Trucking Associations (ATA)
Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA)
International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT)
Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA)
National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC)
National Association of Small Trucking Companies (NASTC)
National Transportation Institute (NTI)
National Association of Publicly Funded Truck Driving Schools (NAPFTDS)
Truckload Carriers Association (TCA)

We also have Rail Vehicle Operator/Driver, Shuttle Bus Driver, and School Bus Driver jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Commercial Driver's License (CDL). A license required to drive large commercial vehicles such as tractor trailers.
Logbook. A document used to track the hours a driver works, rest, and associated driving activities.
Hours of Service Regulations. Regulations set out by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration that govern how many hours a driver can drive and how much rest they must have.
Pre-Trip Inspection. An inspection of the vehicle that must be done before every trip. It is designed to ensure the safety of the vehicle and its load.
Cargo Securement. The securement of cargo on a vehicle to ensure safe transport and to prevent shifting or loss of the load due to sudden stops or turns.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age requirement for a Tractor Trailer Driver?

The minimum age requirement for a Tractor Trailer Driver is typically 21 years old.

What type of license is required to be a Tractor Trailer Driver?

A Tractor Trailer Driver is required to have a commercial driver's license (CDL) with an endorsement for operating a tractor trailer.

What type of training is necessary to become a Tractor Trailer Driver?

To become a Tractor Trailer Driver, individuals must complete a training program that includes classroom instruction, driving skills tests, and on-the-road practice.

How much do Tractor Trailer Drivers typically earn?

On average, Tractor Trailer Drivers earn $47,500 per year. However, salaries can vary depending on experience and location.

What are some of the safety regulations for Tractor Trailer Drivers?

Some of the safety regulations for Tractor Trailer Drivers include obeying speed limits, avoiding distractions while driving, and adhering to the hours of service limit set by the federal government.