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Entry Level Cdl Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Brinks

CDL Driver

San Bernardino, CA

$26.56 - $31.74/hr

If you are a licensed CDL Driver who's looking to gain great experience working for an amazing company - Brinks is looking for YOU! Our Commercial Licensed Drivers are a familiar sight around the ...

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All JobsCdl Driver JobsEntry Level Cdl Driver JobsEntry Level Cdl Driver Jobs in California

Entry Level Cdl Driver information

See California salary details

$13

$37

$88

How much do entry level cdl driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cdl driver in California is $37.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $40.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level CDL driver?

Entry Level CDL Drivers are individuals who have recently obtained their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and are beginning their careers as professional truck or commercial vehicle drivers. They typically have limited on-the-road experience and may work under the supervision of more experienced drivers or participate in company training programs. These drivers are responsible for transporting goods safely while adhering to federal and state regulations. Entry level positions often focus on building skills, learning company procedures, and gaining experience needed for more advanced driving roles.

What does an entry level CDL driver do?

CDL stands for commercial driver’s license. As an entry-level CDL driver, you operate a truck or vehicle to transport goods. Your duties are to load your truck, follow a designated route, and unload within a designated time. Depending on the type and size of truck you drive, you may need a class a, class b, or class c license. Your responsibilities may also include collecting money, verifying delivery, and checking your vehicle before and after each drive for a safety inspection. Long-haul jobs may require you to be away from home for weeks at a time and work weekends and holidays.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level CDL driver?

To thrive as an Entry Level CDL Driver, you need a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), a clean driving record, and a solid understanding of road safety regulations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, electronic logging devices (ELDs), and basic vehicle maintenance tools is typical for the role. Strong attention to detail, time management, and effective communication skills help drivers excel in meeting schedules and interacting with clients. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safety, compliance, and reliable service in the transportation industry.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level CDL drivers during their first year on the job?

Entry-level CDL drivers often encounter challenges such as adapting to long hours on the road, learning to navigate unfamiliar routes, and managing compliance with various safety regulations. Building time management skills and maintaining a healthy work-life balance can also be difficult at first. Additionally, new drivers may need time to become comfortable with handling large vehicles in different weather and traffic conditions, but supportive training programs and mentorship from experienced drivers can help ease the transition.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cdl Driver vs Delivery Driver?

AspectEntry Level Cdl DriverDelivery Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)Driver's license (varies by vehicle)
Work EnvironmentTrucks, highways, long hoursVans, trucks, local routes
Industry UsageTransportation, freight, logisticsRetail, food service, parcel delivery

Entry Level Cdl Drivers typically hold a CDL and operate large trucks for freight or long-distance routes, often working for logistics companies. Delivery Drivers usually have a standard driver's license and focus on local deliveries for retail or food services. While both roles involve driving, CDL Drivers require specialized credentials and often work in the transportation industry, whereas Delivery Drivers tend to work in retail or service sectors with different vehicle requirements.

How much do entry level CDL drivers make?

Entry-level CDL drivers typically earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on the region, company, and type of freight. Starting pay may include additional benefits such as overtime, bonuses, and health insurance, and requires a valid commercial driver's license and basic driving skills.
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Entry Level Cdl Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cdl Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,591 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

CDL Driver

Commercial Distribution Specialists, Inc.

Menifee, CA

$20.63 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Position Purpose:

The CDL Driver is responsible for safely operating commercial vehicles to deliver products to customer locations or job sites, ensuring timely and accurate deliveries while following all DOT regulations.

Our Drivers are essential partners in our success, delivering more than products-they deliver reliability, trust, and a great customer experience.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Follow all DOT (Department of Transportation) rules and maintain a clean driving record to make sure company vehicles are operated safely and responsibly.

  • Inspect vehicles before and after trips to help ensure safe and on-time deliveries.

  • Load, unload, and organize orders carefully at customer sites and branch locations to make sure products are delivered accurately and on schedule.

  • Understand and adhere to FMCSA regulations.

  • Review and confirm purchase orders and delivery tickets to confirm routes and inventory, helping reduce errors and improve customer satisfaction.

  • Support job site safety by checking for and reporting any potential hazards, to help prevent accidents and protect people and property.

  • Take photos of all delivered products as required by company policy.

  • Keep accurate records of deliveries, vehicle inspections, and receipts.

Direct Manager/Direct Reports:

Reports to: Branch Manager
Direct Reports: None

Travel Requirements:

  • The CDL Driver role requires local travel, with deliveries commencing and concluding at the branch.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift and handle freight/materials up to 100 pounds throughout the workday.

  • The job involves consistent physical activity, including bending, crouching, and prolonged seating and standing.

  • Must meet DOT medical certification standards to operate vehicles safely.

Working Conditions:

  • Work performed in a warehouse environment in conditions like noise, hot or cold temperatures.

  • Driving in varied weather and traffic conditions.

  • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) will be required.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Valid Class A or B Commercial Driver's License (CDL).

  • Current DOT Medical Certification.

  • Completion of FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) Registration.

  • Ability to continuously lift and handle freight/materials up to 100 pounds.

  • Must be 21 years old if the job involves interstate travel or transporting hazardous materials.

  • A clean driving record (no hit & runs and no DWI/DUI in the last 18 months).

  • Knowledge of FMCSA regulations and DOT compliance and OSHA safety regulations.

  • Basic computer skills to record deliveries and track inventory on a computer or tablet.

  • Work two Saturdays of every Month


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Air Brake endorsement

  • Experience operating Manual or Automatic Transmission vehicles

  • Valid and unexpired forklift certification

  • Valid and unexpired certification to operate a Moffett (truck-mounted forklift)

  • Prior commercial driving experience

Minimum Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent

Preferred Education:

  • None

Minimum Experience:

  • No prior experience required; however, commercial driving experience and familiarity with DOT/OSHA safety regulations are preferred.

Certifications:

  • Crane Operator License (CCOC)

  • Forklift Certification

  • Moffett Certification

Competencies:

  • Safety First Mindset

  • Dependability and Reliability

  • Customer Service

  • Time Management

  • Teamwork and Communication

  • Attention to Detail

The base salary for this position typically falls within the range of $20.63 to $26.25 per hour. Starting wage may vary based on a number of factors including, but not limited to, the position being offered, location, education, training, and/or experience. SRS Distribution offers additional competitive and non-financial benefits. Hourly associates may be eligible for overtime based on business needs. Depending on the role, associates may also be eligible for performance-based bonus programs, commissions, car allowance or automobile and fuel program, and reimbursement for travel expenses in accordance with company travel policy.Job Location: Imperial Sprinkler Supply, Inc. - Menifee33300 Zeiders Rd Menifee, CA 92584As an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer SRS Distribution Inc., including all its subsidiaries, provides job opportunities to qualified individuals without regard to actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, uniform service, veteran status, marital status, genetic information, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local EEO laws. If you are an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require a reasonable accommodation in applying for any posted position, please contact Human Resources at US: 855.556.3221, or by email to: HR@Help.SRSDistribution.com with the nature of your accommodation request and include the Business name, location and title of the job opening. Please allow one (1) business day for a reply. All employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screen, as permitted by law.Competitive weekly/bi-weekly pay, discretionary bonuses, 401(k) with company match, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, paid time off (vacation, sick, volunteer, holidays, birthday, floating), medical/dental/vision, flexible spending accounts, company-paid life and short-term disability, plus optional long-term disability, and additional life insurance. All benefits subject to eligibility.Should a Candidate be submitted to fill a position by a recruiting or staffing services agency ("Agency"), the Company has no obligation to pay the Agency any fee for submission, offer, placement or any service without a fully executed contract of service covering the engagement.

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