If you are considering becoming a Commercial Motor Vehicle driver, then you are moving towards a stable and well-paying career choice with lots of opportunities that will enable you to travel and grow in the transportation industry.
With that said, you should know that this job is not as simple as you might think. The truth of the matter is that driving a CMV comes with many legal responsibilities, lifestyle changes, and physical requirements that many people do not completely understand at first.
With that said, before you start your career journey, you should know what the role involves and how you can prepare for long-term success.
Understanding the Core Responsibilities
You should know that as a CMV driver, you will be doing so much more than sitting behind the wheel. In other words, as a CMV driver, you will be responsible for operating heavy vehicles safely from one location to another while following strict state and federal regulations.
In this career, you can expect tight delivery schedules, long hours, and lots of time away from home, especially if you become a long-haul driver. It is incredibly important to understand the reality of this job, as it can help you decide whether or not this career is aligned with your professional and personal goals.
Understanding the DOT Physical Exam
Before you can legally become a professional CMV driver, you must meet the specific medical standards, including passing the dot physical exam, which is an example that ensures that you are mentally and physically healthy to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
When it comes to this exam, you should know that it is designed to evaluate your vision, blood pressure, hearing, and general health. However, this physical exam is not a one-time requirement; as a driver, you must renew the exam periodically to maintain your certification.
With that said, it is certainly in your best interest to look after your health from the very start so you can ensure your driving career stays on track.
Knowing the Non-Negotiables: Training & Licensing
Now, if you want to become a professional CMV driver, you will need a CDL, which will be your commercial driver’s license, and includes practical and written testing. You will have to opt for proper training through an accredited driving school. Nonetheless, you can also get your certification from an employer-sponsored program.
By getting the best quality training, you will not only pass your exams but also learn about defensive driving, safety protocols, and vehicle inspections, all of which will help protect you and other drivers sharing the road.
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Understanding the Daily Responsibility of Safety & Compliance
The truth about road safety is that it is not only a simple guideline but a daily obligation, which is why all CMV drivers must follow specific rules, conduct inspections before and after their trips, and essentially comply with cargo and weight regulations.
If you fail to follow the safety and compliance rules, you might have to deal with heavy fines or even worse. With that said, if you want to become a successful CMV driver, you must learn to integrate strong habits around safety and compliance by staying updated on the latest regulations.
