If you’re considering becoming a truck driver, one of the first things you might be asked is for you to start gaining OTR (Over-the-Road) Experience. What is OTR? It’s the most readily available position in the industry and comes with a lot of perks, but what does a day in the life of an OTR truck driver look like? Here’s a rundown:
Over-the-Road Trucking
Instead of making deliveries locally, an OTR driver is responsible for transporting shipments over longer distances across the country. Usually, all you need to get an OTR job is a high school diploma (or GED) and your CDL license. You will be responsible for moving all sorts of cargo, such as food items, mechanical equipment.
Some OTR drivers can set their own schedules, but if your delivery is time-sensitive, you may have to adhere to a deadline. The maximum an OTR driver is allowed to work is 70 hours over eight days. After this, they are required to take at least 34 hours off. This means that you’ll likely be driving for up to 11 hours a day. Additionally, most OTR truckers spend up to 300 days a year making deliveries.
Benefits of OTR Trucking
The life of an OTR trucker isn’t for everyone since it requires you to be away from home for long periods of time. However, it’s still a very rewarding profession. OTR truckers enjoy:
- High pay. OTR truckers can earn an average of $53,916 during their first year of trucking, and this number will rise as they gain more experience.
- Sightseeing. Since OTR truckers do a lot of interstate driving, you’ll be able to see a lot of scenery from each of the beautiful states.
- Alone time. If you value your private time or see yourself as an introvert, being an OTR trucker may align perfectly with your personality.
Is over-the-road trucking for you? Contact us today to get started on obtaining your CDL license. We offer flexible class schedules, as well as job placement and tuition assistance.
