The Complete Guide To A Career In Trucking

How are rookie drivers treated, and why is the right attitude so important?

ying and yang symbol

Everyone's heard of people getting "the rookie treatment" when they are brand new at something. Truck drivers are no exception.

New drivers will generally be "rookies" for a year or so, until they REALLY learn to drive the truck without hitting anything, manage their time, and do all of the other things that will make them a successful driver.

Success as a truck driver depends mainly on the drivers attitude, and how they approach the trucking lifestyle. If you approach everything as a problem and get frustrated, you're going to have a frustrating time. The same applies if you just "roll with it", instead.

How long will I be considered a "rookie" driver, and what should I expect as a new driver?

Are Rookie truck drivers treated any differently than experienced drivers?

With the average age of today's drivers hovering around 50, it's harder to tell the rookies from the experienced drivers, but, just as in any aspect of life, you will find many people who are more than willing to help, and many who aren't.

If you are unsure, never be afraid to ask for advice. Again, you will have much more success in the end as a new driver if your approach is humble & inquisitive, rather than if it is boisterous & over-confident.

Video - Down With Rookie Truck Drivers

This video is an interview with an experienced truck driver about life as a rookie in the trucking industry.

How much will my attitude affect my success as a driver

Your ability to handle life on the road and its ever-changing circumstances, and your willingness to stick things out rather than quit when they get tough will be the main factor in your success as a truck driver. Anybody can be taught to drive a truck, and the rest is up to you.

Rookie truck drivers and personal responsibility:

Constantly striving to get better and taking responsibility for your actions and their results are the hallmarks of any successful, experienced, truck driver. Many companies will have near-zero tolerance for "rookie mistakes", like accidents, so take your first year as one, long, learning experience.

Slow and steady wins the rookie driver race, as they say.

Why Join Trucking Truth?

We have an awesome set of tools that will help you understand the trucking industry and prepare for a great start to your trucking career. Not only that, but everything we offer here at TruckingTruth is 100% free - no strings attached! Sign up now and get instant access to our member's section:
High Road Training Program Logo
  • The High Road Training Program
  • The High Road Article Series
  • The Friendliest Trucker's Forum Ever!
  • Email Updates When New Articles Are Posted

Apply For Paid CDL Training Through TruckingTruth

Did you know you can fill out one quick form here on TruckingTruth and apply to several companies at once for paid CDL training? Seriously! The application only takes one minute. You will speak with recruiters today. There is no obligation whatsoever. Learn more and apply here:

Apply For Paid CDL Training