From a young age I knew that I wanted to be a trucker. I even wore a hat that proudly declared to my classmates, “When I grow up I wanna be a trucker.” Well, times change and it wasn’t until I was well into my adult life that I pursued the dream and found myself living out my childhood fantasies.
Requirements & Restrictions for CDL
The age requirements for acquiring a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are different than a standard driver’s license, and for good reason. Generally speaking, a standard driver’s license can be acquired at age 16, with a learner’s permit at just 15 years old in most states. But in places like North and South Dakota, Kansas, and Iowa to name a few, teens as young as 14 can begin driving with a learner’s permit. Fortunately, we don’t see young teenagers navigating the highways in big rigs.
In every U.S. state, the minimum age to get a CDL is 18, though these come with a specific restriction. While under the age of 21, drivers are only permitted to drive commercial vehicles within their home state; crossing state lines is not permitted if a driver is under 21 years of age. After age 21, the borders are open across all states.
Check out our partner, CDL Consultant, for more tips on attaining your CDL.
The Age of Truck Drivers
On the other end of the age spectrum, how old is too old to drive a truck? Legally, there isn’t an age restriction, as long as the driver exhibits the needed skills and can safely drive, they are permitted to do so.
Being a truck driver is a demanding job, one that requires patience, stamina, and attention. As we age, all of us experience changes in these areas and that can impact our ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. It’s vital to be honest with yourself and your medical practitioner about your ability behind the wheel – if it’s time to stop driving, stop driving.
Medical concerns can also impact your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has a comprehensive list of health requirements that a medical examiner must assess to permit a CDL holder to drive or continue driving. Included in the restrictions are certain heart conditions, epilepsy or conditions resulting in loss of consciousness, vertigo or other balance issues, and some diabetes-related illnesses, blood pressure, or respiratory issues. These can be explained more throughly by the medical examiner as needed.
As a traditional OTR driver, you will be required to stay awake for long hours behind the wheel, have high mental awareness, and sharp reaction skills. Sometimes these decrease with age and may require a change in your employment. OTR may not be the best option, but if truck driving is in your blood and you wish to continue behind the wheel, it may be an option to take a local run instead.
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