The road to a successful career begins with a well-crafted resume.

Whether you're an experienced specialist looking to advance your career or a newcomer eager to start your journey, this guide provides you with the essential tips to create a compelling truck driver resume.

From highlighting your driving experience and certifications to showcasing your safety record and customer service skills, we'll help you present your qualifications in the best light.

Truck driver resume examples

CDL driver resume example

CDL driver resume example
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Truck driver resume sample

Professional Summary

Experienced truck driver with over 10 years of safe driving and a clean record. Proficient in long-haul and short-haul operations with a strong focus on customer satisfaction and timely deliveries.

Work Experience

Truck Driver

Urban Move Logistics, Saint Louis, MO

January 2018 – Present

  • Transport a variety of goods, including perishable items, hazardous materials, and oversized loads, ensuring compliance with all safety and legal requirements.
  • Maintain clean driving records, achieving 4 consecutive years of accident-free driving.
  • Execute efficient loading and unloading procedures, collaborating with warehouse staff to streamline operations and minimize downtime.
  • Utilize GPS and routing software to navigate complex routes, reducing fuel consumption by 12% through efficient driving practices.

Delivery Driver

Allied Road Runners, Saint Louis, MO

June 2014 – December 2017

  • Delivered packages and goods to residential and commercial locations within urban and suburban areas, managing an average of 50-60 stops per day.
  • Ensured accurate documentation, including delivery receipts, mileage logs, and expense reports, maintaining meticulous records for management review.
  • Adapted to dynamic schedules, handling last-minute changes and urgent delivery requests efficiently.
  • Developed strong rapport with clients, contributing to high customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Skills

  • Operation of flatbed, tanker, and refrigerated trucks.
  • GPS and route planning software.
  • Knowledge of federal and state transportation regulations.
  • Time management, communication, problem-solving, customer service.

Education

High School Diploma

City High School, Saint Louis, MO

Graduated: June 2013

Certifications and Licenses

  • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A with Hazmat and Tanker Endorsements
  • First Aid/CPR Certified

Professional Affiliations

  • Member, American Trucking Associations (ATA) - since 2019

Formatting tips

Your resume for a truck driver should be visually appealing, and easy to read, and highlight your qualifications clearly.

Here are some recommendations for a truck driver resume:

  • Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in a size between 10 and 12 points.
  • Divide your resume into clear sections with slightly larger headings.
  • Use bullet points starting with action verbs to list your responsibilities, achievements, and skills. This makes it easier for recruiters to scan quickly.
  • Maintain consistency in formatting throughout the CDL driver resume. Use the same style of bullet points, indentation, and spacing for each section.
  • Ensure adequate margins (usually 1 inch) and use white space effectively. Avoid overcrowding the page.
  • Use bold for section headings and job titles to make them stand out. Italics can be used for company names or to emphasize specific achievements.
  • Keep your text aligned to the left. Justified text as it can create uneven spacing.

If you're not confident in creating your own layout, use professionally designed templates. You don’t have to worry about different font styles or inconsistent bullet points.

Resume Trick makes it easy to add sections, rearrange content, and customize your truck driver resume without technical expertise.

You can quickly update your application as needed, whether you're adding new experiences or tweaking details. The online resume builder handles the formatting automatically, saving you time and effort.

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Truck driver resume summary

Writing a truck driver resume objective or summary can be beneficial as it provides a brief overview of your qualifications, skills, and career goals at the beginning of your application.

  • Resume summary is typically used by candidates with significant work experience in their field who want to showcase their career progression and achievements. It should be around 3-4 sentences and more detailed.
  • Objective statement is suitable for candidates who are just starting their career, switching industries, or lacking significant work experience. It is usually 1-2 sentences and focuses on career aspirations.

Ensure whichever you choose effectively communicates your qualifications in a truck driver resume and aligns with the employer's needs and expectations.

Sample truck driver resume summary:

Experienced Truck Driver with over 8 years of driving Class A vehicles. Demonstrated expertise in route planning, vehicle maintenance, and adherence to safety standards. Proven track record of delivering goods on time while maintaining a perfect safety record. Strong communicator with a dedication to customer service excellence.

Truck driver resume objective example:

Safety-conscious CDL holder with recent training and hands-on experience in operating Class A vehicles. Seeking to leverage my commitment to safety and proficiency in route planning to ensure timely deliveries and customer satisfaction.

Contact information

Employers need a way to contact you for interviews or to discuss your application further. Providing clear and accurate contact information in your truck driver resume ensures they can reach out to you easily.

Required details:

  • Name. Your first and last name prominently displayed at the top of your CDL driver resume.
  • Phone. A professional phone number where you can receive calls or messages.
  • Email. An email address that you check regularly. Avoid using unprofessional or outdated addresses.
  • Location. Optionally, you can include your city and state to indicate your general location to employers.

Experience

Practical experience in a resume for a truck driver showcases your ability to perform the core responsibilities. It demonstrates your proficiency in operating commercial vehicles, handling different types of cargo, navigating various routes, and adhering to safety protocols.

Start with your most recent or current position and list previous jobs in reverse chronological order. This format helps emphasize your recent experience, which is often more relevant to employers.

How to organize this section of a CDL driver resume:

  • Title. Clearly state your job title for each position held.
  • Company. Include the name of the organization where you worked and its location (city and state/country).
  • Dates of Employment. Specify the duration you worked at each position. Add the month and year of your start and end dates.
  • Key Responsibilities. Outline your main duties in bullet points. Focus on what you achieved and your specific contributions.

Where possible, add quantifiable achievements to your truck driver resume. Use numbers or percentages to demonstrate the impact of your work.

Example:

Truck Driver

Green Route Carriers, Bangor, ME

March 2018 - Present

  • Safely operate Class A tractor-trailer combination vehicles over long-haul routes, consistently meeting delivery deadlines and maintaining a clean driving record.
  • Conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections of equipment, identifying and resolving mechanical issues to ensure vehicle safety and compliance with DOT regulations.
  • Maintain accurate electronic logbooks and documentation, achieving a 100% accuracy rating in recording driving hours and vehicle inspections.
  • Implement efficient route planning strategies, reducing fuel consumption by 10% and optimizing delivery times.
  • Receive multiple commendations from customers for professionalism, reliability, and excellent service delivery.

Delivery Driver

JetStream Shipping, Bangor, ME

January 2015 - February 2018

  • Operated straight trucks and vans for local deliveries, ensuring timely and accurate distribution of goods to commercial and residential customers.
  • Utilized GPS navigation systems to plan efficient delivery routes, minimizing mileage and maximizing efficiency.
  • Provided exceptional customer service, resolving delivery discrepancies promptly and maintaining positive relationships with clients.
  • Adhered to company safety protocols and traffic laws, contributing to a spotless safety record during employment tenure.

Education

While education may not be the primary factor in evaluating your qualifications compared to experience and skills, it still adds value to your truck driver resume. This can demonstrate your commitment to professional development.

Having a high school diploma is generally expected for most job applications. It demonstrates basic literacy, numeracy, and the ability to follow instructions.

Start with your highest level of education achieved. This can be a college degree, high school diploma, or equivalent (e.g., GED).

Here are the key elements to include:

  • Name. Provide the name of the institution where you obtained your education.
  • Location. Include the city and state (or country, if outside the US) where the school is located.
  • Dates. Include the dates you attended the school, typically the years of enrollment (e.g., 2010 - 2014).
  • Relevant Training. If you have obtained related certifications, include this information in your truck driver resume.
  • Awards. If applicable, mention any academic honors received during your education.

Example:

High School Diploma

Springfield High School, Springfield, IL

Dates Attended: August 2010 - May 2022

Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

Obtained from East Coast Trucking School, Springfield, IL

Date of Certification: May 2023

Certifications for a truck driver resume:

  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL). This is the most fundamental certification required to legally operate commercial vehicles. Include the specific class of CDL you hold (e.g., Class A, Class B).
  • Endorsements: Depending on the types of vehicles and cargo you will transport, include endorsements that are relevant to your career. Common ones include hazardous materials (hazmat), tanker, and passenger.
  • TSA Security Clearance (TWIC). This is required for drivers who need access to secure areas of ports and other transportation facilities.
  • First Aid and CPR Certification. Although not always required, having certification in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can demonstrate your readiness to handle emergency situations on the job.
  • Forklift Certification. If you have experience or certification in operating forklifts or other types of material handling equipment, include this in your truck driver resume.
  • Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG). In some regions, additional certification may be required for transporting dangerous goods. Include this information if relevant to your experience.

Truck driver skills for resume

Highlighting skills on your truck driver resume is crucial as it demonstrates demonstrate your ability to perform the core responsibilities of the job effectively.

Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities or knowledge that can be quantified and measured. They are typically gained through education, training programs, certifications, or on-the-job experience.

Hard skills for a truck driver resume:

  • Vehicle Operation. Proficiency in safely operating and maneuvering commercial trucks, including understanding vehicle controls, handling different types of terrain, and maintaining control in various weather conditions.
  • Route Planning. The ability to plan and navigate optimal routes using maps, GPS systems, or planning software. This includes knowledge of traffic patterns, construction zones, and alternative routes.
  • Vehicle Maintenance. Basic knowledge of maintaining and inspecting commercial trucks, including conducting pre-trip inspections, performing routine maintenance tasks, and recognizing signs of mechanical issues.
  • Cargo Handling. Skills in loading and unloading safely and efficiently, ensuring proper weight distribution, securing cargo to prevent shifting during transit, and complying with loading regulations.
  • Documentation. Proficiency in completing required paperwork such as logbooks, trip reports, delivery receipts, and inspection forms accurately and in compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Safety and Compliance. Knowledge of traffic laws, Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, and safety protocols to ensure compliance, promote safe driving practices, and maintain a clean driving record.

Soft skills, also known as interpersonal, are attributes and qualities that enable someone to interact effectively and harmoniously with others. They can be gained through life experiences, personal development, and interactions with others.

Soft skills for a truck driver resume:

  • Communication. The ability to effectively convey information to others, including dispatchers, customers, and colleagues. This involves clear verbal communication and listening skills to understand instructions and provide updates.
  • Time Management. Skills in prioritizing tasks, managing schedules, and adhering to delivery deadlines while considering factors like traffic conditions, rest breaks, and unforeseen delays.
  • Problem-Solving. The capacity to identify issues or challenges on the road, evaluate options, and make decisions to resolve problems efficiently and effectively without compromising safety or delivery schedules.
  • Customer Service. Skills in interacting professionally with customers, addressing their needs or concerns, and ensuring a positive experience throughout the delivery process.
  • Adaptability. The ability to adjust to changing circumstances, such as weather conditions or traffic congestion, while maintaining composure and making necessary adjustments to plans.
  • Attention to Detail. A strong focus on accuracy and thoroughness in tasks such as inspecting cargo, completing paperwork, and following procedures to ensure compliance with regulations.
  • Stamina and Endurance. Physical and mental resilience to withstand long hours of driving, potentially across multiple days or weeks, while remaining alert and maintaining safe driving practices.

Optional sections

SectionDescription
Professional DevelopmentInclude any relevant training programs, workshops, or continuing education courses related to truck driving or safety regulations.
Equipment ProficiencyIf you have experience operating specific types of vehicles or equipment (e.g., flatbeds, refrigerated trucks), you can list this under a section dedicated to equipment proficiency.
AchievementsIf you've received any awards, recognitions, or commendations for your driving performance, safety records, or customer service, showcase them in your truck driver resume.
LanguagesIf you are proficient in languages other than English and it could be beneficial for the job (e.g., if you often travel internationally or work with diverse clients), list them here.
ReferencesWhile not always included on the truck driver resume itself, you might consider including a line stating "Available upon request" if you have strong references who can vouch for your work ethic and skills.

Truck driver cover letter

While a truck driver resume provides an overview of your professional background and qualifications, a cover letter complements it by offering a more personalized introduction, explaining why you are a suitable candidate.

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A well-written cover letter shows that you are genuinely interested in the specific job and company. It should demonstrate that you have taken the time to research the company and tailor your application, which can set you apart from other applicants.

Here are some tips to consider:

  • Whenever possible, address to the hiring manager or recruiter by name. If you can't determine the specific name, you can use a more generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager".
  • Start with a brief introduction that includes your name, the position you are applying for, and where you found the job listing. This sets the context right away.
  • Since your driver's license is crucial for the job, mention it early in the letter. Briefly describe any specific training or certifications related to truck driving that you have completed.
  • Mention any past experience or examples where you have demonstrated a commitment to safe driving practices and adherence to regulations.
  • Detail your relevant experience, including types of vehicles you've operated, routes you've driven, and any specialized skills (e.g., handling hazardous materials, operating specific equipment).
  • Research the company and mention why you are interested in working for them specifically. Highlight any aspects of their mission, values, or reputation that resonate with you.
  • Truck drivers often encounter challenges on the road. Share an example of how you've overcome a difficult situation or managed logistics effectively to deliver on time.
  • Aim for a one-page cover letter that is clear, concise, and professional in tone. Highlight only key achievements or abilities.
  • Conclude by expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity to discuss how your skills align with the company's needs further. Politely request an interview or meeting to further discuss your application.

Good truck driver cover letter sample:

  • Dear Ms. Gilbert,

    I am writing to express my interest in the Fuel Truck Driver position at Swift Transit Solutions. With over 5 years of experience in the industry and a proven track record of delivering exceptional service, I am confident that I have the qualifications to excel in this role.

    In my previous role, I was responsible for delivering fuel to multiple gas stations across the state. I ensured that all deliveries were made on schedule and without any incidents. This experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the logistics involved in fuel transportation.

    One of my biggest achievements was being recognized for exceeding delivery targets. Through careful planning and attention to detail, I was able to optimize routes and reduce delivery times, resulting in cost savings for the company.

    I am able to communicate effectively with customers, colleagues, and dispatchers to ensure smooth operations. Additionally, I have a flawless safety record and have received commendations from superiors for my adherence to all safety protocols.

    I possess a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with a Hazmat endorsement. I also have experience operating various types of fuel trucks and am familiar with all safety regulations related to fuel transportation.

    I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to Swift Transit Solutions. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my qualifications align with your needs further.

    Sincerely,

    Raul Perales

This cover letter example clearly introduces the applicant's experience and qualifications, immediately stating their relevance to the role. It also includes specific achievements, which demonstrate the driver's value and impact in previous roles.

Cover letter for a truck driver with no experience:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Truck Driver position at Pioneer Freight Lines as advertised on your website. With a strong work ethic, dedication to safety, and a passion for the transportation industry, I am eager to contribute to your team.

Though I am new to professional truck driving, I have recently obtained my CDL Class A license and completed rigorous training in vehicle operation, safety regulations, and logistics management. My experience during training has equipped me with the skills necessary to handle different types of vehicles and navigate various road conditions effectively.

I am particularly drawn to your company because of your commitment to delivering exceptional customer service. You have the reputation for timely and safe transportation solutions across the region. I am confident that my dedication to learning and my enthusiasm for the industry will make me a valuable asset to your team.

I am excited about the opportunity to start my career with Pioneer Freight Lines and would welcome the chance to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm align with your needs. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

Sarah Knowlton

Despite being new to professional truck driving, the candidate expresses enthusiasm for starting this specific organization and emphasizes their dedication to learning and contributing to the team.

The letter is personalized to the company. It mentions specific aspects that appeal to the candidate, such as its commitment to customer service and its reputation for safety and reliability. This shows genuine interest in the role.

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Proofreading

Well-proofread truck driver resume and cover letter demonstrate your commitment and can give you a competitive edge in admissions or job applications. Errors can make you appear careless, so eliminating them is vital for presenting yourself effectively.

Here are tips on proofreading your application papers:

  • Step Away. After finishing your truck driver resume and cover letter, take a short break. This helps you approach the process with fresh eyes.
  • Print It Out. Reviewing a printed copy can help you catch errors you might miss on a screen.
  • Verbal Check. Reading your truck driver resume aloud can help you identify awkward phrasing and catch errors more easily.
  • Formatting. Ensure consistent use of fonts, font sizes, bullet points, and spacing.
  • Tense. Use the same tense throughout your application, typically past tense for previous jobs and present tense for current roles.
  • Spelling and Grammar. Look for typos, incorrect word usage, and grammatical mistakes in your CDL driver resume.
  • Punctuation. Check proper use of periods, commas, and other punctuation marks.
  • Acronyms. Spell out acronyms the first time they appear, followed by the acronym in parentheses.
  • Accuracy. Double-check dates, job titles, company names, and any numbers or statistics mentioned.
  • Grammar Tools. Services like Grammarly or Hemingway can help identify grammar and style issues.
  • Get a Second Opinion. Have a friend, family member, or colleague review your truck driver resume. They may catch errors you missed.

Conclusion

Crafting an impressive CDL resume is a vital step towards securing your desired position in the transportation industry. By following the guidelines and truck driver resume examples provided in this article, you can showcase your skills and experience to potential employers.

Remember to tailor your application for each job posting, emphasizing relevant achievements and qualifications that align with the job requirements.

Good luck, and safe travels on the road ahead!

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