How to Become a City Driver?
Steps to Become a Driver
Companies task drivers with transporting cargo or passengers. A successful driver has excellent time management skills, organizational skills, and navigational skills. Drivers who transport passengers should also have good interpersonal skills. Keep in mind that whether you decide to transport cargo or people, both situations will have you out on the road for long stretches of the day, which can be pretty stressful. However, if you can handle the stress, enjoy driving, and have a good driving record, you're ready to take the following steps.Apply for a commercial driver learner's permit.
If you choose a driving career that involves operating a large motor vehicle, you'll need to obtain a commercial driving licence (CDL). With a CDL 1 (or A in Ontario) licence, you can legally operate a tractor-trailer, also referred to as a semi-truck or big rig. The other CDL classifications vary by province or territory.
To undergo your CDL training, you'll need to have a commercial learner's permit (CLP) so that you can practise driving a commercial vehicle under the supervision of an authorized CDL holder. To gain your learner’s permit or endorsement, you must already have a valid full driver’s licence and you'll need to study for and pass the knowledge test. In most provinces/territories, the knowledge test is multiple choice and you have to score at least 80% to pass.
Begin the driver licensing process.
While you can self-study for the knowledge test, most companies won't hire a driver who hasn't attended truck driving school or participated in a company-sponsored training program. Which program you choose depends on your budget.
Most experts recommend that you attend a driving school if you can afford it. If you participate in a company-sponsored training program, you might have to travel for your training, and you'll have to commit to working for that company. Attending a driving school gives you more flexibility in your career path. Make sure that whatever program you choose is authorized by the province or territory you plan to work in.
Take the commercial driver licensing exam.
After you complete your training program, you can take the CDL road test. When you take the road test, the examiner will evaluate how you manoeuvre the vehicle and handle stressful driving situations.
Once you pass the road test and have your licence, you can start searching for the driver job that's right for you.
City Driver Career Path
Driver
Senior Driver
Driver IV
Salary Trajectory
City Driver Career Path
Related careers in the Transportation Industry
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