Want to drive dump trucks but you don’t have any experience? It’s possible – the key is to be willing to start with basic driving jobs. As you gain experience, you can work your way up to more complex jobs. In this article, I’ll walk you through the basics of how to become a dump truck driver with no experience.
How to Get a Job as a Dump Truck Driver With No Experience
The best way to break into dump truck driving without experience is to attend a truck driving school. Many community colleges and private schools offer programs that train you to drive dump trucks and earn your commercial driver’s license (CDL).
To legally drive a dump truck, you’ll need a CDL Class A or B license. The school you attend will prepare you to pass the required knowledge and driving skills tests to earn your CDL.
With your CDL in hand, you can start applying for dump truck driving jobs. Many companies hire drivers with no experience and provide on-the-job training. Look for positions advertised as “entry-level” or “no experience required.”
Can I Drive a Dump Truck Without a CDL
Dump truck drivers cannot drive without a CDL, unless you’re driving a non-CDL dump truck. The largest trucks that you can operate without a CDL have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of no more than 26,000 pounds. The maximum weight rating for non-CDL vehicles is 26,000.
| Dump Truck CDL and Non CDL | |
| Class A | Drive a dump truck with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 33,001 or more pounds. Example: tractor-trailer dump truck. |
| Class B | Operate a dump truck that has a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds. Example: straight dump truck. |
| Non CDL | Drive a dump truck with a GVWR of 26,000 pounds or less. Example: under CDL/non-CDL dump truck like the Freightliner M2. |
Entry-Level Dump Truck Driver Salary
As an entry-level dump truck driver, you can expect to make between $29,000 to $69,000 per year depending on the company and location. The average salary for an entry-level dump truck driver in the U.S. is around $47,900 per year.
The job also provides stability since dump trucks and their drivers are always in demand. Besides, many companies provide benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and even retirement plans.
Overall, the job outlook for dump truck drivers looks pretty good over the next several years. As the economy continues to grow, the demand for construction materials and the need to move dirt and debris will increase.
Pros of Dump Truck Driver Job
Many dump truck drivers make a decent living. Many dump truck driving jobs also offer flexible or irregular hours. At the end of your shift, you get to go home, whereas OTR drivers are on the road for days and weeks at a time.
Driving a dump truck requires training and a specific skill set. As a driver, you’ll become an expert at safely operating a large commercial vehicle. You’ll also gain knowledge about loading and unloading materials, following proper procedures to secure loads, and maintaining your truck.
Furthermore, if you enjoy working outside and don’t want to be stuck behind a desk, dump truck driving is ideal. You get to experience the open road and changing scenery as you travel between locations.
Many dump truck drivers also work for private contractors or construction companies, so as more roads and buildings are built, more drivers will be needed. While experience is often preferred, many companies also hire entry-level drivers and provide on-the-job training. As long as you have a commercial driver’s license and a clean driving record, you stand a good chance of landing an entry-level job driving a dump truck.
Cons of Dump Truck Driver Job
As a dump truck driver, you’ll typically work long hours, often 10 a day. You may have to start work early in the morning and end late in the evening.
Operating a dump truck is also physically demanding work. You may have to load and unload heavy materials, climb up and down from the cab many times a day, and cope with the vibration of the truck for hours.
Also, in some cases, dump truck driving can be a dangerous job. You frequently drive on uneven terrain, haul heavy loads, and operate heavy machinery. So, you have to be extremely cautious and follow all safety procedures to minimize risks.
Can I Get a Job Without Dump Truck Driver Skills?
Yes. Many dump truck companies are willing to hire new drivers and provide on-the-job training. As long as you have your CDL and a clean driving record, you’ve got a shot at landing an entry-level dump truck gig. However, you must at least be physically fit for the job.
Conclusion
The best way into the dump truck driving field is through entry-level positions. There are companies that will hire and train you as needed. With the right attitude, skills, and persistence, you can launch a successful career as a dump truck driver, even without years of experience. Keep practicing, make connections, and don’t be afraid to start at the ground level.
Sasha is a freelance writer for TruckersTraining.com and an entrepreneur. She has 10+ years experience as a writer with expertise in the transportation, business and farming industry. She is a wife, a mother, and co-owner of DreCampbell.com.
