Thinking of becoming a long-haul truck driver?
You’re probably wondering about truck driver demand and what you can earn. Trucking can be a great career and very lucrative for experienced drivers. This guide will break down the average pay for OTR truck drivers and some of the factors that affect your pay as a truck driver.
Average Truck Driver Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers was $54,320 in May 2023. This means half of all truck drivers earned more than this and half earned less. The lowest 10% earned less than $36,050, and the highest 10% earned more than $75,220 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Keep in mind these are just averages and your actual yearly income as a truck driver may be higher or lower. Your best bet is to talk to the companies you’re interested in and find out what it takes to earn the highest pay with them.
OTR Truck Driver Pay
OTR (over-the-road) truck drivers are paid by the mile, and their pay varies based on experience, location, and type of freight. Experienced OTR drivers can earn significantly more, with some earning up to $70,000 or more annually. Companies like ShipEX offer a competitive true salary of $62,500 before bonuses, which is very attractive for OTR drivers.
The pay that you can earn as a truck driver is also dependent on whether you are a solo driver or a team driver. A solo driver is an over-the-road truck driver who does not have a second driver in the truck. These truck drivers could be owner-operators or company drivers and their average annual salary will change based on which method of driving they use. For example, owner-operators have expenses that company drivers do not have to pay.
What is an OTR Driver Job?
As the trucking industry grows, the demand for professional truck drivers remains high. OTR truck drivers haul goods and materials over long distances, often across state lines or even internationally. They are responsible for maintaining e-log books and other paperwork, ensuring the truck is in good working order, and following all federal and state safety regulations. OTR drivers are typically on the road for 3-6 weeks at a time.
Factors Affecting Long-Haul Truck Driver Pay
Several factors can impact the pay of an OTR truck driver:
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Time on the Road: The more time a driver spends on the road, the more they will earn. Many OTR drivers are paid by the mile, so the more miles driven, the higher the pay. This is also reflected in their tenure as drivers who have a clean driving record and have been on the road for a long time are more trustworthy.
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Miles Driven: Drivers who cover more miles in a given period can earn more money.
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Freight Carried: The type of freight can also impact income. Hazardous materials, for example, often pay more than other types of freight due to the additional risks involved.
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Location: Generally, OTR drivers working in urban areas earn more than those in rural areas due to the higher cost of living and greater demand for drivers.
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Risks: Professional drivers who take on more challenging jobs, like hauling hazardous materials or driving in adverse weather conditions, can expect higher pay rates.
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Endorsements: Tanker drivers, hazmat drivers, and others with additional endorsements can increase their value to employers and thus their pay.
Steps to Become an OTR Truck Driver
To become an over-the-road truck driver, you’ll need to get a commercial driver’s license (CDL). This requires completing a CDL training program and passing a series of exams to prove your knowledge and skills. CDL training programs cover topics such as vehicle operation, safety regulations, and basic maintenance.
By understanding these factors and optimizing your earning potential, you can have a successful and fulfilling career in trucking. If you’re ready to start, reach out to recruiters from top trucking companies and begin your journey as an OTR truck driver.
This average salary does not include regional drivers or local truck drivers. For more detailed information, you can visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
