Interested in military truck driving jobs—what should I know?

Considering joining the military and have a keen interest in truck driving roles. What should I know about military truck driving jobs? Are there specific skills or qualifications needed, and what’s the training process like?

Military truck driving roles, officially known as Motor Transport Operators in the U.S. Army, require some specific qualifications but offer vast opportunities for skill development and career progression during and after your service period. Let's break these down:

- Qualifications & Skills: Generally, a high school diploma or GED is required to enlist. You should hold a clean driving record with a civilian driver's license, demonstrating your aptitude for the role. A score of 85 or above in the Operator and Food (OF) area of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test is typically a requirement. A good level of physical fitness and resilience to adapt to changing conditions are beneficial.

- Training Process: After completing basic combat training (usually about 10 weeks), you'll receive Advanced Individual Training (AIT) for around seven weeks. Here, you learn how to operate military vehicles under various conditions including on different terrains and in adverse weather. Skills taught include navigation, vehicle inspection and convoy operations. The training combines classroom learning with hands-on practice, equipping you with the complete skill set you need.

- Roles and Responsibilities: Once trained, you could be driving varying vehicles from Humvees to 50-ton transports, transporting personnel, cargo or supplies. A part of your role might include managing vehicle maintenance.

- Post-Military Opportunities: Experience in military truck driving can set you up for a prosperous civilian career. You could consider roles in transportation, logistics, or supply chain management in various industries. With the Military's license and certificates, you may not need to take a civilian driving test under certain conditions. Keep in mind the Commercial Motor Vehicle Operator Safety Training Grant, which helps veterans transition into civilian motor vehicle jobs.

To sum up, military truck driving roles can offer a rewarding career with great potential to build a variety of tough, practical skills and open up lucrative post-military career paths. You should certainly consider your physical capabilities and resilience, as well as your interest in driving and logistics before taking this route.