How Much Do Truck Drivers Make?
$49,920median annual salary
$24/hour · $4,160/month · BLS Code: 53-3032
Truck drivers transport goods over local, regional, and long-haul routes. With over 2 million employed, trucking is one of the largest professions in the US. Owner-operators who own their rigs can earn $100,000-$200,000+ but also face higher expenses and business risk.
Truck Driver Salary at a Glance
Entry Level
$33,120
Starting salary
Median
$49,920
50th percentile
Senior Level
$72,730
Experienced professionals
Top 10%
$78,540
90th percentile
Salary Range
Salary by Experience Level
Top Paying States for Truck Drivers
#1
Nevada
$62,470
#2
Alaska
$61,790
#3
Wyoming
$60,300
#4
North Dakota
$59,830
#5
Washington
$59,120
Top Paying Cities for Truck Drivers
Education & Requirements
Education
High school diploma plus Commercial Driver's License (CDL) — training takes 3-7 weeks
Typical Degree
High School + CDL
Certifications
Job Outlook
+4%
Projected Growth (2022-2032)
2,032,400
Total Employed
BLS Outlook Category
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Truck Driver Salary FAQ
How much do truck drivers make?
The median salary is about $49,920. Long-haul drivers earn more ($55K-$70K), and owner-operators can gross $150,000-$300,000+ (net income varies widely). Specialized haulers (oversized loads, HAZMAT) earn premium rates.
How long does it take to get a CDL?
CDL training programs take 3-7 weeks. Some companies offer free CDL training in exchange for a 1-2 year employment commitment.
Is truck driving a good career?
It provides decent pay with minimal education requirements and quick entry. However, long-haul driving means extended time away from home, and the work can be isolating. Local/regional routes offer better work-life balance.
Will self-driving trucks replace truck drivers?
Not in the near future. While autonomous trucking technology is advancing, full replacement is decades away. Drivers will likely transition to hub-to-hub and last-mile roles rather than disappear entirely.
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Read moreSalary data is based on BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, industry surveys, and widely-reported compensation benchmarks. Figures are approximate and vary by location, employer, experience, and market conditions. This is educational content — not career or financial advice.