Be a Driver for Oversize Loads

Because it is more difficult to navigate roads and highways with an oversized load, becoming a driver requires some additional training and qualifications. Specific requirements vary by region, but there are some basic guidelines you can follow to get started. As long as you have a commercial driver’s license (CDL), pass some qualifying tests, and find a company to employ you, you can begin driving oversized loads in no time.

Steps

Becoming Qualified

1. Hold a high school diploma. In order to get a job as a driver for oversize loads, you need to have a high school diploma. Some companies may accept a GED or similar equivalent.
   • If you don't have a diploma or GED, it's never too late to earn one.
2. Meet the minimum age requirement in your area. Most U.S. states require drivers to be 21 years of age to drive oversized loads. This is because of the extra responsibility and challenges that come with maneuvering extra large objects and cargo.
   • Some states allow 18-year-olds to become certified in oversized hauling. However, just because a state allows it does not mean a company will hire drivers under the age of 21.
3. Obtain a Get a Commercial Drivers License (CDL). It's important to get experience driving regular 18-wheelers before you haul large loads. If you don't already have your CDL, apply for a commercial driver's permit through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Then, take classes through a licensed or accredited CDL school to learn how to drive a semi. When you've finished your classes, take and pass the written exam and skills test through the DMV to get your license.
   • Many CDL schools have flexible programs that last between 3 and 6 months.
   • If you go to CDL school, you'll not only learn how to operate and maneuver large trucks, but also how to signal, read maps and plan routes, fill in logbooks, and understand road signs and rules.
   • While you can study independently and pass the tests, most companies prefer to hire people that have graduated from truck-driving school as they will have more experience.
4. Pass a thorough Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination. To become a commercial driver, you have to pass a medical examination every 2 years by a practitioner that is certified by the DOT. The practitioner will test your vision, hearing, and overall physical wellness.
   • If you have a medical condition that the doctor feels necessitates a follow-up in less than 2 years, they will issue you a shorter-term certification.
   • Certain medications and conditions, such as narcotic-based pain management or seizure disorders, will disqualify you, regardless of whether or not you are following a physician’s treatment plan.
   • Certified practitioners for the U.S. are listed on this website: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/medical/driver-medical-requirements/national-registry-certified-medical-examiners.
5. Have a background free of felony convictions and driving-related offenses. Minor traffic offenses won’t stop you from getting a job as a driver for oversized loads, but criminal offenses on your record and any serious driving-related crimes—such as DUI, vehicular manslaughter, and hit-and-run—would almost certainly disqualify you from any job.
   • When companies hire drivers, they are counting them to be responsible drivers and trustworthy with the cargo. You may be hauling large, valuable cargo, and they need to know you are a person of maturity and integrity that they can trust.
   • If you are unsure about something in your past, reach out to a company and ask them directly if it will be a problem. They will find whatever it is when they conduct a background investigation, so it’s best to come clean and explain yourself upfront.
6. Be drug-free with no prior history of alcoholism. Excessive drinking is a serious concern for any employer. For companies that will be trusting you to move thousands of pounds of cargo through busy streets, it’s of paramount importance. If you have any history of drinking on the job, getting arrested for drinking-related offenses, or indications of alcohol abuse in your physical exam, you will not get hired.
   • When a company hires you, they look at you as an investment. A poor history with alcohol will indicate for them that you are too risky to invest in.
   • Because marijuana is still not legally from a federal standpoint, having any traces of marijuana in your system at the time of your drug test when you apply for a job can result in revocation of your CDL.

Getting a Job

1. Study the laws in the areas in which you plan to drive. Before applying to jobs, do some homework on what will be expected of you while you are on the road. The specific laws regarding special permits, restrictions on times of days, and other issues relevant to hauling oversized loads vary. If you live in the U.S., check out the DMV website for the state you live in.
2. Polish your resume. Before you begin applying for positions, update your resume with all of your current information. Highlight the fact that you have a CDL and note if you attended a truck-driving school. List any relevant experience on your resume to show that you are qualified to be a driver for oversize loads.
   • If you have a certificate of completion from CDL school, be sure to note that on your resume.
   • Ask a friend or family member to proofread your resume before you print or submit it. Sloppy mistakes could cost you the job!
3. Find job leads online and through your network. A simple internet search for "oversize load driver positions" will turn up plenty of results. You can also ask friends and family for leads and reach out to instructors and classmates from your CDL school.
4. Learn as much as you can about each company before you apply. Once you have a few leads, research each company on their website. Learn about their goals and why they think they are different from their competition. Think about whether you'd be a good fit with the company before deciding to apply.
   • Also, research the company on news websites and find out if they’ve had any newsworthy issues, such as accidents or driver scandals. This is important to determine if you want to work for this company and also to explain in your application how you can make them a better business.
5. Submit applications to several different trucking companies. After you’ve done your research and found some companies that you’d like to work for, begin applying for open positions. You can often find openings and instructions for applications on the company’s website. If not, contact the companies directly or seek the assistance of a Hire a Job Recruiter or headhunter.
   • Show off your research in your application. Tailor each cover letter to the specific company and impress them by making specific references to their mission statement and highlight any skills that make you an ideal driver for them.
   • If you find scandals or poor press, don’t reference it directly in your application. Instead, make mention of how they won’t need to worry about you. For example, if there was a recent article about a drunk driver employed by them causing a crash, make sure to note if you do not drink or if you have an impeccable driving record.
   • Be sure to prepare so you can nail your interviews and get an offer!
6. Complete on-the-job training once you land a position. Even if you went to school and hold a CDL, most companies will want you to complete some training as a new employee. You'll likely ride as a passenger with an experienced driver for a few weeks so you can learn about the companies policies and the materials you'll be carrying. Take the time to observe and ask questions so you're fully prepared to start working on your own.

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References

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