How to Hire CDL Drivers: Employer’s Guide

Hiring a CDL driver involves many steps to ensure the candidate is qualified, experienced and compliant with all regulations. Here’s a breakdown of the steps to hire a CDL driver in the USA:

Job Description

• Position details: What type of CDL (A, B or C) will the driver be driving?
• Route and cargo: What kind of routes (local, regional, over the road) and what kind of cargo (general freight, hazmat etc.)
• Experience and endorsements: How many years of experience and what endorsements (HAZMAT, tanker, doubles/triples) do you need?

Job Posting

• Write a detailed job description with duties, qualifications, hours, pay, benefits and any other details.
• Post the job on job boards, industry websites and social media.

Applications and Screening

• Review applications and resumes to make sure candidates meet the minimum requirements.
• Use pre-screening questions or tools to narrow down the applicants.

Background Checks and Verifications

• Driving record check: Get a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) to review the candidate’s driving history.
• Employment history verification: Verify previous employment in the trucking industry to confirm experience.
• Criminal background check: Do a criminal background check especially if the driver will be hauling hazmat or sensitive cargo.
• Drug and alcohol testing: Federal regulations require pre-employment drug and alcohol testing for CDL drivers.

Interviews

• Prepare questions to test the candidate’s experience, problem solving and knowledge of safety regulations.
• Consider a practical driving test to test the candidate’s driving skills and proficiency with the type of vehicle they will be driving.

CDL and Medical Certification

• Make sure the candidate has a valid CDL for the type of vehicle.
• Verify the driver has a current DOT medical certificate to ensure they are physically qualified to drive a commercial vehicle.

Orientation and Training

• Company specific orientation covering policies, procedures, safety protocols and any specialized training for the cargo or equipment.
• Provide on the job training if necessary for unique operational procedures or specialized vehicles.

Compliance

• Register the new hire with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse.
• Make sure you comply with any state specific regulations or additional federal requirements such as Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) if applicable.

Done

• Complete the hiring process by issuing an employment contract or agreement with compensation, benefits, hours of work and other employment terms.
• Introduce the new driver to the team and get them in your scheduling and dispatch systems.

Ongoing Monitoring and Development

• Performance evaluations, safety training and compliance checks with DOT regulations.
• Professional development and opportunities for additional endorsements or advanced training.

By following these steps you will hire qualified and compliant CDL drivers and keep your operations running smoothly and safely.