ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Cdl Driver Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

lansing

CDL Driver

Knoxville, TN

A Day in the Life at Lansing: CDL Driver (youtube.com) HOME EVERY NIGHT! CDL Driver's day usually begins around 7:00 AM -- sometimes earlier -- and ends at approximately 4:30 PM -- generally no ...

lansing

CDL Driver

Nashville, TN

A Day in the Life at Lansing: CDL Driver (youtube.com) HOME EVERY NIGHT! CDL Driver's day usually begins around 7:00 AM -- sometimes earlier -- and ends at approximately 4:30 PM -- generally no ...

Waste Connections

CDL Driver

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

If you're a safety-focused CDL driver looking for a stable, rewarding career with a growing company, this is your opportunity to make a real impact in your local community. Why Work at Waste ...

EmployPro/Prime Drivers

NON CDL Driver

Nashville, TN · On-site

$19/hr

NON CDL Drivers * Home Daily * Start time 6:00AM * Starting pay is $19/hour/ Plus OT * Touch Freight Required Apply online at www.primedrivers.com or contact us at 615-836-7798 Requirements ...

Lansing Building Products, LLC

CDL Driver

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

A Day in the Life at Lansing: CDL Driver (youtube.com) HOME EVERY NIGHT! CDL Driver's day usually begins around 7:00 AM -- sometimes earlier -- and ends at approximately 4:30 PM -- generally no ...

Lansing Building Products

CDL Driver

Knoxville, TN · On-site

A Day in the Life at Lansing: CDL Driver (youtube.com) HOME EVERY NIGHT! CDL Driver's day usually begins around 7:00 AM -- sometimes earlier -- and ends at approximately 4:30 PM -- generally no ...

lansing

CDL A Driver

Nashville, TN

A Day in the Life at Lansing: CDL Driver (youtube.com) HOME EVERY NIGHT! CDL Driver's day usually begins around 7:00 AM -- sometimes earlier -- and ends at approximately 4:30 PM -- generally no ...

Brinks

CDL Driver

Memphis, TN

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 ...

Brink's Incorporated

CDL Driver

Memphis, TN · On-site

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 ...

Brinks

CDL Driver

Memphis, TN · On-site

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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

Entry Level Cdl Driver information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$34

$81

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

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cdl driver in Tennessee is $34.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $37.55 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.
More about Entry Level Cdl Driver jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Cdl Driver jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Cdl Driver jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cdl Driver jobs in Tennessee?

For Entry Level Cdl Driver jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cdl Driver jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cdl Driver jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Cdl Driver jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Cdl Driver job openings:

Entry Level Cdl Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cdl Driver job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,357 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Entry Level CDL-A Truck Driver

Nashville, TN

Western Express, Inc.

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

People enjoy working here

Respectful managers

Uninterrupted breaks

Learn more about Western Express, Inc.external

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Western Express is Now Hiring Entry Level CDL-A DriversRecent Grads Earn up to $90,000 in the First YearNo Experience RequiredValid CDL-A Required to Apply


At Western Express We Offer: 
  • Great pay - Recent Grads can earn up to $90,000 the first year!
  • Experienced top earners and trainers make up to $130,000 per year!***
  • Starting rates up to 48 CPM + increases up to 53 CPM within your first year!
  • New safety bonus - Qualify and take home up to $2,000 or more each month!*
  • Reliable home time - get home every 12 - 16 days with OTR**
  • $1,000 driver referral bonus – unlimited!
  • On-The-Job Training - CDL-A holders of all experience levels welcome! (CDL-A required)


Have Your CDL-A? Apply Now!


Why Wait to Earn More?

Western Express has immediate openings for entry-level company truck drivers! (CDL-A required.) With our paid training, steady miles, and numerous perks, Western Express is your best first step into the trucking industry!

We know that drivers are the backbone of our country’s success. At Western Express, we are committed to supporting you every step of the way. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, starting your journey with a new CDL-A, or returning after some time away, we have something for you. (CDL-A Required) Explore a range of options to match your driving goals—including flatbed, dry van, regional, over the road, team, and one of the industry’s best Lease-To-Own programs.

Interested in being a driver trainer? Drive with Western for 3 months or more and you can qualify as a driver trainer! Call today for more details on how you can earn up to $130,000 annually!***


Requirements: 
  • Valid CDL-A (Class A CDL)
  • 21+ years of age

Additional Benefits:
  • Choose Flatbed or 100% no-touch Dry Van with 60-80% drop and hook**
  • Dependable trucks: Well-maintained fleet equipped with the latest safety technology
  • Excellent benefits: health, dental, and vision + 401(k)
  • Pet & rider policies
  • Paid vacation 


Roll with the Best at Wester Express! Apply Now!
Western Express is a non-discriminatory and equal-opportunity employer.

*Safety bonus eligibility conditions apply, including minimum tenure, mileage, accident-free driving and more.

**Flatbed/Van freight and regional fleet availability subject to geographical eligibility.

***Trainer eligibility subject to review and approval. Experience, tenure and safety requirements apply.

****Subject to change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Call for details.


By submitting my information, I consent to receive calls, text messages, and emails from the company, including information about my application, eligibility, opportunities, and other advertising and telemarketing messages. I agree that calls may be made using an automatic telephone dialing system and/or an artificial or prerecorded voice and that messages and emails may be sent using automatic messaging systems. I understand that I may opt out at any time by pressing "0" during the calls, by texting "STOP" in response to the text messages, or by clicking the provided “unsubscribe” link in the emails. I additionally agree that Western Express, Inc.'s service provider receives in real-time and logs your text messages and emails with Western Express, Inc.

What Western Express employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom