How to Hire Your First Driver for Your Trucking Company
Starting a trucking company is a major milestone, but at some point, you’ll need to expand beyond just yourself. Hiring your first driver is a big step, and getting it right is crucial for your business’s success. From compliance to finding the right candidate, here’s everything you need to know to make the process smooth and successful.
1. Determine Your Hiring Needs
Before bringing on a driver, consider your business’s needs:
- Do you have consistent loads? Hiring someone means ensuring there’s enough work to keep them busy and profitable.
- What type of freight are you hauling? Different freight requires different endorsements and experience levels.
- Are you financially ready? Payroll, benefits, and insurance costs will increase once you hire.
2. Understand FMCSA and DOT Compliance
Hiring a driver means complying with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. Here’s what you need to check:
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) – Ensure the driver has the correct class and endorsements for your operations.
- Medical Examiner’s Certificate – A valid DOT physical exam is required.
- Drug and Alcohol Testing – Pre-employment testing is mandatory, and you’ll need to enroll in a random testing program.
- Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) Check – Review their driving history to ensure they meet safety standards.
- Employment History Verification – FMCSA requires you to verify the driver’s last three years of employment.
3. Create a Compelling Job Listing
A good job post will attract the right candidates. Be clear and concise about:
- Job Description: Type of hauls, required licenses, home time, and expected work schedule.
- Pay and Benefits: Competitive pay structure, bonuses, and any benefits offered.
- Experience Requirements: Whether you’re open to new drivers or require industry experience.
- Company Culture: Highlight what makes your company a great place to work.
Example Job Post: ABC Trucking is hiring its first company driver! We offer competitive pay, home weekends, and a supportive team environment. Looking for a CDL-A driver with at least two years of experience. Apply today!
4. Where to Find Qualified Drivers
Once you’ve created your job post, you need to get it in front of the right people. Here are some places to recruit your first driver:
- Job Boards: Post on sites like Indeed, CDL Life, Truckers Report, and Tenstreet.
- Social Media: Facebook trucking groups and LinkedIn can help spread the word.
- Referrals: Ask industry contacts or other trucking professionals for recommendations.
- Local Trucking Schools: New CDL graduates might be eager for their first job.
5. Conduct Thorough Interviews
Once you receive applications, vet your candidates carefully. Ask questions such as:
- What experience do you have with [specific freight type]?
- How do you handle long-haul driving and time away from home?
- Have you ever had a DOT violation? If so, what happened?
- What do you look for in a good employer?
Assess their personality, professionalism, and how well they align with your company’s values.
6. Run Background Checks and Verify Documents
Before making an offer, conduct background screenings, including:
- Criminal background checks (if applicable)
- MVR and PSP Reports (FMCSA Pre-Employment Screening Program)
- Drug and alcohol history
Ensure all paperwork, including the FMCSA driver qualification file, is completed.
7. Set Up Payroll and Benefits
Hiring means setting up a payroll system. You’ll need to:
- Decide between W-2 employment or 1099 contract work
- Withhold and report payroll taxes (if hiring as a W-2 employee)
- Offer health benefits, retirement plans, or bonuses to stay competitive
Consult an accountant to ensure proper tax and payroll setup.
8. Onboarding and Training
Once you’ve hired your first driver, set them up for success:
- Provide an orientation on company policies and expectations
- Go over safety procedures and compliance requirements
- Ensure they understand fuel cards, dispatch systems, and route planning
- Pair them with a mentor (if available) to help with the transition
9. Monitor Performance and Provide Support
Your first hire is a big step, so it’s important to maintain open communication. Regularly check in to:
- Ensure they’re comfortable with company operations
- Address any concerns before they become issues
- Recognize their hard work and offer incentives for good performance
Final Takeaways
Hiring your first driver is a big milestone in growing your trucking business. To ensure success:
✅ Stay compliant with FMCSA and DOT regulations
✅ Create a strong job listing and recruit through multiple channels
✅ Conduct thorough interviews and background checks
✅ Set up payroll and benefits properly
✅ Provide onboarding, training, and ongoing support
Bringing on the right driver will help your business grow while keeping your operations smooth and compliant. Need help with trucking insurance as you scale? Contact us today for a free consultation!
