Trucking Jobs in Ohio

How Much Do Truck Drivers Make in OH?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2020, Ohio heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers made a mean annual wage of $47,870 and a median hourly wage of $22.32.

The figures vary across the state, with certain metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas showing slightly higher or lower earnings:

• Columbus: $47,160
• Cleveland/Elyria: $49,700
• Dayton: $45,540
• Cincinnati: $50,050
• West Northwestern Ohio Nonmetropolitan Area: $55,570
• Eastern Ohio Nonmetropolitan Area: $51,990

Wages for trucking jobs in Ohio compare favorably to wages nationwide, with an hourly U.S. median pay of $22.66 per hour.

Truck Driving Job Growth in OH

Ohio has a robust trucking industry. The state ranks among the top five states in heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver employment, with 73,160 in the industry as of May 2020.

The 10-year employment growth projection nationwide is 2% from 2019-2029, lower than the average for all other occupations. However, this number doesn't account for employee turnover or open trucking roles that go unfilled.

Trucking Companies Hiring in Ohio

Many trucking companies serving Ohio are looking to hire new drivers regularly. Trucking companies with open trucking jobs in Ohio as of spring 2021 include:

R+L Carriers — Wilmington, Ohio

Jobs available: Class A Line-haul Truck Drivers, Class A Team Drivers

Regional Liquid Tanker — Ohio

Jobs available: Class A Driver

Freewheeling, LLC — Cleveland, Ohio

Jobs available: Semi-Truck Driver, Dedicated OTR Truck Driver

Schneider — Circleville, Ohio

Jobs available: Regional Tanker Truck Drivers

XPO Logistics — Perrysburg, Ohio

Jobs available: Tractor-Trailor Truck Drivers

Trucking Jobs Near You

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How to Get a Truck Driving Job in Ohio

Becoming a truck driver in Ohio can lead to a comfortable salary and steady work. Some truck driving jobs also allow for a good work-life balance with schedules that enable drivers to be home on weekends or evenings.

Fortunately, the process for becoming a truck driver in Ohio is not lengthy. The following steps will get you ready to start your trucking career.

Step 1: Decide Which CDL Classification You Want

You can choose from three CDL classes:

Class A

This is for driving multiple vehicles with a total weight capacity (GCWR) of more than 26,00 pounds. The tow vehicle must have a weight capacity (GVWR) on its own of over 10,000 pounds. Class A will allow you to drive for most trucking companies, though some jobs require additional endorsements.

Class B

This CDL classification is for driving any single vehicle with a weight capacity of 26,001 pounds or more. Any trailer cannot exceed 10,000 pounds.

Class C

Choose this classification if you're driving a small vehicle that is not a Class A or Class B vehicle but meets the following criteria:

• Designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver
• Can carry hazardous materials in a quantity that requires placarding
• A school bus that is not a Class A or Class B vehicle

Step 2: Attend a Quality CDL Training Program in Ohio

Taking CDL classes will not only make you a safer, more effective driver but willbe required beginning February 2022 when new federal regulations take place.

Truck drivers will need to attend courses at an approved CDL program listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Training Provider Registry to meet minimum entry-level driver training requirements.

Step 3. Take Your Driving Tests

In Ohio, first-time applicants must be at least 18, have a valid Ohio driver's license, and provide proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residence. You also have to self-certify your type of driving.

In addition to passing a vision and hearing test, you need to take a knowledge test for each class of vehicle and each CDL endorsement you seek, such as one for hazardous materials.

Your skills tests include a pre-trip inspection, a basic maneuverability test, and a road test. Plan on the testing to take several hours. You're responsible for providing the testing vehicle that matches your desired CDL certification. If you fail any part of the skills test, you have towait a week to retake it.

Step 4. Apply for Your First Ohio Trucking Job

Once you have the required certifications, you can start your search and apply for truck driving jobs in Ohio.

Truck Driver Resources in Ohio

Once you receive your license and find a trucking job, it's important tokeep honing your skills and stay up to date on industry regulations. For assistance with your Ohio truck driving career, check out the following sites and resources.

Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV)

The Ohio BMV lists requirements for getting and keeping your CDL and provides other guidelines and resources.

Truck Drivers Guide Book

The Truck Drivers Guide Book by Ohio Highway Patrol provides a comprehensive guide to the state's rules and regulations for truckers.

Ohio Trucking Association

The Ohio Trucking Association is an advocacy and education group dedicated to improving the trucking industry in Ohio.