The trucking industry is constantly in search of new drivers. The turnover rate is very high. In 2016, the need is to fill some 48,000 jobs. By 2024, some statistics put the burgeoning need as high as 175,000 CDL jobs. In NY, this can lead to many opportunities for young and older drivers fresh out of training school. What they apply for and what they may get, will depend on a large extent to the type of license they hold.
Getting a CDL in New York
If you want to drive a rig or even van professionally, you need to obtain a CDL license. In the state of New York, this entails fulfilling the right obligations and qualifying for it after a written and driving test. NY candidates for a CDL must:
* Have a current New York driver’s license (Class D, Class E, or Non-CDL C). The other option is to hold a valid CDL from another state
* Not have a driver’s license in the past 10 years in any other state or American district. If so, you must report this
* Meet the Federal medical standards
* Prove they are legally in the United States
* Have no open suspensions in any state
This is a valid approach for any class of CDL you may want to hold.
Classes of CDL in New York
When looking at the available CDL jobs , you will come across specific letters indicating the class of each CDL license required to fulfill the requirements of employment. In New York State, they fall into one of three main classes or levels. These are:
* Class A CDL: A necessity for driving a long-haul rig plus a trailer capable of carrying more than 10,000 pounds
* Class B CDL: Allows an operator to drive a large truck hauling a trailer with a maximum load of less than 10,000 pounds. The vehicle may also be a bus or a truck with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 lbs. or more depending on endorsements and restrictions
* Class C CDL: for transporting 16 plus passengers, hauling hazardous weight, driving a bus or truck that has a GVWR) of 26,000 lbs. or less depending on endorsements and restrictions
Having a CDL does not automatically give you the authority or grant you the necessary skills to operate other types of trailers or vehicles. If you need to haul tandem trailers, tankers or hazardous materials, you need to obtain specialized training.
CDL Jobs
The trucking industry requires operators for a wide variety of jobs. In NY, by taking the right courses and obtaining the right license, you will better be able to find suitable employment. CDL jobs vary in pay and skill level, but obtaining the right class of CDL is a crucial first step in finding work.
