A CDL Driver, or commercial driver, transports goods or people on commercial vehicles, such as large trucks or buses. Their duties include loading and unloading cargo, maintaining their vehicles and completing paperwork related to delivery or driving.
A CDL Driver should be able to fulfill various duties and responsibilities. The following are some duties and responsibilities a CDL Driver should be able to execute:
- Gathering, organizing and loading items for delivery in a way that protects goods and supports efficiency
- Ensuring routine maintenance tasks, such as oil changes or tire rotations, are performed in a timely manner on the delivery vehicle
- Following traffic laws and driving in a safe, courteous manner
- Logging miles, driving hours and other activities, especially as required to maintain compliance with federal and state laws
- Managing fuel needs and ensuring vehicles are properly fueled
- Navigating or managing routes via GPS and other in-field technology provided by the company
- Performing inspections to ensure the vehicle and cargo are safe, in working condition and aligned with laws and regulations
A competitive CDL Driver will have certain skills and qualifications, including:
- The appropriate commercial driver’s license — a Class A, B or C — depending on the driving needs your organization has
- The appropriate commercial driver’s license endorsements, such as N if you require a driver to operate a tank vehicle, P if you require someone to operate a passenger-carrying vehicle or T if you require drivers to operate double or triple trailers
- Completion of a truck driving certification program
- Meeting minimum age qualifications, which many companies set at 18 or 21
- The ability to lift and carry a certain amount of weight in keeping with your loading and unloading requirements
- Strong navigation and problem-solving skills related to route management
