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Recent Cdl Grad Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Recent Cdl Grad information

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$682

$1.5K

$2.1K

How much do recent cdl grad jobs pay per week?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average weekly pay for recent cdl grad in the United States is $1,522.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,269.23 and $1,692.31 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are recent CDL grads?

Recent CDL grads are individuals who have recently completed a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training program and have obtained their CDL. These drivers are typically new to the trucking industry and may be seeking their first job as a professional truck driver. Many companies offer entry-level positions or specialized training programs to help recent CDL graduates gain experience and build their skills on the road. Employers often look for candidates who have completed an accredited CDL course and have a clean driving record.

What is the difference between Recent Cdl Grad vs Entry-Level Truck Driver?

AspectRecent Cdl GradEntry-Level Truck Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentTrucking industry, long hours on the roadTrucking industry, on-the-road driving, warehouse loading
Employer UsageLogistics companies, freight carriersFreight companies, delivery services
Search IntentStarting trucking career, entry-level positionsFirst trucking job, beginner driver roles

Recent Cdl Grad and Entry-Level Truck Driver both require a CDL license and involve working in the trucking industry. The main difference is that Recent Cdl Grad refers to individuals who have recently obtained their CDL and are seeking their first job, while Entry-Level Truck Driver emphasizes the initial job role itself. Both are aimed at newcomers to the industry, with similar credentials and work environments.

What types of support and training can recent CDL grads expect when starting their first trucking job?

Recent CDL grads often participate in company-sponsored training programs or driver finishing schools, which pair them with experienced mentors for hands-on learning. These programs help bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world driving, focusing on safety procedures, route planning, and company-specific protocols. New drivers may start with shorter or less complex routes before gradually taking on longer hauls as their confidence and skills grow. Support from dispatchers, safety managers, and fellow drivers is typically available to assist with trip planning, paperwork, and troubleshooting on the road.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Recent CDL Grad, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recent CDL Grad, you need a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), a solid understanding of road safety regulations, and basic vehicle maintenance knowledge. Familiarity with electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS navigation systems, and fleet management software is typically required. Strong communication, time management, and adaptability help you handle delivery schedules and interact with dispatchers and clients. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable transport operations right from the start of your trucking career.
What cities are hiring for Recent Cdl Grad jobs? Cities with the most Recent Cdl Grad job openings:
What states have the most Recent Cdl Grad jobs? States with the most job openings for Recent Cdl Grad jobs include:
Recent Cdl Grad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recent Cdl Grad job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 32% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 54% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $79,176 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

CDL A Driver -Dry Van No Touch - Trainees Welcome

American Driver

Knoxville, TN

$1K/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

No forced dispatch into New York City. No slip-seating. No games with your miles. Whether you are an experienced driver or a recent CDL graduate just starting your career, if that sounds like what you have been looking for, keep reading.

We are hiring Class A CDL drivers for stable regional dry van lanes running East of I-35. Experienced drivers step straight into solo miles. Recent CDL graduates enter our paid training program and are on the road earning within days. You get an assigned 2022 or newer Kenworth or Freightliner automatic with an APU, and you take it home. No sharing.

What You Earn

  • $0.56 to $0.64 CPM based on experience
  • Weekly gross average $1,200 to $1,500
  • Top 30% of drivers average $1,700+ gross per week
  • 1,700 to 2,300 honest, predictable miles per week
  • $300 orientation pay with travel and lodging covered

The Freight

  • 100% no-touch dry van
  • 70% drop-and-hook / 30% live unload
  • Strictly NO New York City or the five boroughs

Schedule and Equipment

  • 12 days out / 2 days home
  • Assigned 2022 or newer Kenworth or Freightliner automatic
  • All units equipped with APUs
  • No slip-seating — take-home truck allowed
  • Pet and passenger rider programs from day one

Benefits at 30 Days

  • Full medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Company-paid life insurance and disability
  • Employee stock options
  • Accrued paid vacation

Recent CDL Grad? Paid Training Program

  • $650 gross per week, paid every Friday
  • 4 to 6 weeks one-on-one OTR training with a mentor
  • Upgrade to $0.56 CPM the moment you go solo
  • Requires minimum 120-hour certificate from an accredited CDL school

Minimum Requirements

  • Valid Class A CDL and minimum 21 years of age
  • 6 months tractor-trailer experience OR recent CDL graduate
  • Clean MVR, dependable background, fully DOT compliant
  • Pass a pre-employment drug screen

Click Apply Now and a recruiter will contact you the same business day.

EOE