Do I Need a GED to Get My CDL License?

If you are interested in truck driving jobs in Nashville or the surrounding areas, you may be wondering whether you must have a valid high school diploma or a GED before you can apply. Driving a truck is one of the hottest job opportunities available right now, with a strong job growth forecast of over 5% for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers through 2024. There are several special requirements before you are able to apply for these lucrative positions, however.

Education Requirements

The good news is that while a high school diploma or equivalent is recommended, it is not required in most instances. However, you will need to obtain your CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) before you are eligible for CDL jobs. There may also be additional requirements, depending on the employer or your state.

Positive Career Outlook

Truck driving jobs are an opportunity to make a very good wage — with the average salary around $42,500 for tractor-trailer drivers or some other types of CDL jobs. While there is a lot of competition for this type of position, some of the job skills that are required are not those that you would learn in high school: good customer service and communication skills, the ability to sit and drive for long periods of time and clear vision and hearing.

Other Requirements for Truck Driving Jobs

Along with preferring a GED or high school diploma, there are some requirements for CDL jobs. For instance, applicants to truck driver training school must be at least 18, while most long-haul truckers are required to be 21 years of age. Some of the other considerations include whether or not you have a strong work history and your motor vehicle record.

Want to learn more about whether particular schools or employers require a GED or high school diploma? Learn more by reading our frequently asked questions at DriveMW.com, where you can apply online to join our drivers.