Truck driving careers for military veterans: Good idea or not?

I've heard that truck driving could be a good career path for veterans. What makes it appealing to former military members, and are there specific programs or companies that hire veterans?

Truck driving can indeed be an appealing career choice for veterans, primarily because of the structured environment and the travel aspect that mirrors some of the experiences they might have had in the military. This profession has a relatively short training period with CDL (Commercial Driver's License) training programs typically lasting from 3 to 7 weeks. Thus, you are able to enter the job market in a short time. The income in trucking can be competitive as well, especially in long-haul trucking where overtime is a major factor.

Your military experience, particularly if you were a military truck driver or have related operational logistics experience, can directly translate into this career. Some companies, due to the diligent and disciplined nature of military personnel, are keen on hiring veterans. They often provide comprehensive training programs tailored towards those who have served.

You may want to consider companies known for hiring veterans. For example, companies like J.B. Hunt, Schneider, or Werner have been recognized as "military-friendly" employers by various publications and proudly advertise initiatives specifically aimed at recruiting veterans.

As for programs, the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) offers the Military Skills Test Waiver Program which allows veterans with relevant military experience to waive the skills test in the CDL application.

However, like any career, there are challenges in trucking too. It can require long hours and extended periods of time away from home, which might not be suitable for everyone. So, it's essential to take these aspects into consideration when deciding if it's the right fit for you.