New Jersey offers a number of truck driving careers. You will be able to enjoy the cold winters and the warm summers that the state has to offer. Depending on your routes, you may find yourself driving through Atlantic City, Trenton or even into New York City on a regular basis.
Quick Info
- Drivers average $44,030 per year in earnings (above the national average)
- New Jersey has aver 38,000 professional drivers
- Some of the most important industries are Agriculture, Food Processing, and Energy
Salary and Career
The average
New Jersey truck driver earns an average salary of $44,030, says the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You may have control over this salary based upon the endorsements on your license, the company you work for and your experience level as a truck driver.
Various industries exist in the state that rely on Class A commercial drivers. You can look into government, general trucking, food and beverage production and many other industries. Each has their own benefits, so it’s important to do your research.
It’s likely that your career will be stable because of the growing need for truckers. Companies need truckers for the transportation of their products and this has led to the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimating growth in the field to be 21 percent within the next 10 years.
Benefits to a Truck Driving Career
As a truck driver, you can experience an array of benefits. You may be able to find a company that gives you a local route. This could mean being able to drive during the day and be able to sleep in your own bed each night.
Various opportunities exist that allow you to earn more money. When you drive longer hours, take on more responsibilities or even own your own truck, you can increase your salary considerably. The more you learn about the overall position, the more opportunities it will open up for you. You may also be able to purchase your own truck and run your own business as an Owner Operator driver.
Important Laws and Regulations in New Jersey
You will need to abide by the laws and regulations in the state of New Jersey. This includes earning your CDL, which requires you to be 18 or older – and 21 or older to drive across state lines.
There are also anti-idling laws to be aware of in New Jersey. It is illegal to idle a truck longer than 3 minutes at a time anywhere in New Jersey. Local laws may vary, and you should check idling restrictions where you stop.
Any other state laws must be abided by as well to avoid points on your license. Any suspension of your driver’s license will result in suspension of your CDL as well. Many employers run driving record checks prior to offering you employment, so it’s important to avoid points on your license from this standpoint.
Truck driving careers in New Jersey are numerous but they can vary significantly. Do your research to see where the best opportunities exist before you accept a job offer with one company over another one.
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