RSS Staffing Inc. is the leading CDL driver staffing and placement agency in all 50 states. Our professional staff’s expertise lies in recruiting qualified drivers for your commercial trucking needs from our extensive network of candidates that meet FMCSA standards which means you can rest assured knowing we will get what it takes to be safe on roads.

Truck drivers are essential for transporting goods and materials across the United States. However, companies are currently facing a severe driver shortage.

According to the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI), while retention remains a general concern, retirements are the main reason for the deepening worker shortage. Because of an aging workforce, the number of truck drivers facing retirement age continues to climb at a time when interest in the profession has waned. The ATRI estimates that the industry will need to add almost 100,000 drivers by 2025 to meet demand.

The pandemic has exacerbated this shortage, as some drivers have stopped driving due to health concerns. The ongoing global supply chain issues have also made it difficult to find drivers. As a result, many companies are looking for new and innovative ways to recruit drivers. One solution is to hire a staffing agency specializing in finding temporary qualified truck drivers. Companies can access a larger pool of potential candidates by working with a staffing agency and finding drivers that meet their specific needs. In addition, staffing agencies provide support throughout the process and handle all the paperwork, including background checks, licensing, salary, and benefits.

Finding dependable drivers can be a daunting task. At RSS, we understand the importance of having qualified and reliable drivers. That’s why we only employ the best candidates to provide our clients with the flexibility and reliability they need. We excel in reducing risks and liabilities for our clients while creating a predictable cost-per-driver. Whether you’re looking for short-term or long-term staffing solutions, we’re here to help.

There are 3 types of CDL: Class A, Class B, and Class C.

Class A is the more inclusive CDL, allowing for the operation of vehicles such as tractor trailers, tankers, livestock carriers, and flatbeds. Class A is for drivers who operate vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. A class A CDL with the correct endorsements should allow the driver to operate many commercial motor vehicles, including class B and class C trucks.

Class B is for drivers who operate vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more but aren’t towing trailers. With the correct endorsements, a Class B CDL can allow for the operation of vehicles including tourist buses, box trucks, garbage trucks, dump trucks, and delivery trucks. Class B drivers can also operate Class C vehicles with the right endorsements.

Class C is for drivers who operate any single vehicle or combination of vehicles that are not classified Class A or Class B vehicles, but either is meant to transport 16 or more passengers, (including the driver). It also includes operating vehicles used in the transportation of materials classified as hazardous.

According to a study by Seek Business Capital, the ten best states for truck driver salaries (which take the state’s cost of living into account) are in order: Nevada, Mississippi, Kentucky, Utah, South Carolina, Arizona, New Mexico, Indiana, Idaho, and Montana.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers is projected to grow 6 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

CDL stands for Commercial Driver’s License. In order to drive a commercial motor vehicle in the United States, the driver must hold a valid Commercial Driver’s License, or “CDL”. Like a regular (Class D), non-commercial driver license, CDL’s are issued by the state where the driver lives.

Driving a commercial motor vehicle requires more than just the average driver’s license. The Commercial Driver’s License, or “CDL,” is an essential credential for any US citizen operating these larger vehicles. Issued at state level like regular (Class D) licenses, acquiring and renewing a CDL are steps nobody should overlook when planning to operate large-scale machines on public roads!

If you’re looking to obtain a CDL, these areas offer some of the easiest certifications. Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Kentucky Tennessee Mississippi Indiana, and South Carolina. 

With unemployment at an all-time high, furthering your career could be a great move – especially if it’s to the world of professional driving! With CDL jobs in abundance and reliable job security on offer, investing time into this vocation is certain to pay off. So why not make the leap today?

Becoming a commercial driver’s license (CDL) holder offers a wide range of benefits for those who are looking for a stable, well-paying job with opportunities for growth and advancement. Some of the key benefits of becoming a CDL driver include:

1. High Demand: The demand for CDL drivers is consistently high, as goods and products need to be transported across the country every day. This means that CDL drivers are always in high demand, regardless of economic conditions.
2. Good Pay: CDL drivers typically earn above-average salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for a heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver is around $43,680. Additionally, many trucking companies offer bonuses and incentives for safe driving and on-time delivery.
3. Flexible Schedule: Many trucking companies offer flexible scheduling options, which allows drivers to choose when they work and how often they work. This makes it possible for drivers to balance their work and personal lives in a way that works best for them.
4. Variety of Opportunities: CDL drivers have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, such as long-haul trucking, regional trucking, or local delivery. This allows drivers to find a job that best suits their preferences and lifestyle.
5. Room for Advancement: Many trucking companies offer training and development opportunities for their drivers, which can lead to promotions and higher-paying positions. Additionally, many trucking companies also offer tuition reimbursement for drivers who want to continue their education.
6. Independence: Being a truck driver allows for a great deal of autonomy and independence. Drivers get to spend a lot of time on the road, with the freedom to plan their own routes and schedule.
7. Health Benefits: Long hours on the road and being seated for extended periods can be tough on the body, but many trucking companies offer health insurance, retirement benefits, and other perks to help their drivers stay healthy and secure.

In conclusion, becoming a CDL driver offers a wide range of benefits for those looking for a stable, well-paying job with opportunities for growth and advancement. With high demand, good pay, flexible schedules, variety of opportunities, room for advancement, independence and health benefits, becoming a CDL driver can be a great career choice for those who are willing to work hard and meet the qualifications.

Age Requirement: Prospective CDL holders must be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving (within the same state) and at least 21 years old for interstate driving (across state lines) and to transport hazardous materials.

Valid Driver’s License: Applicants must possess a valid non-commercial driver’s license from their state of residence.

Medical Examination: CDL applicants must pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination conducted by a certified medical examiner. The exam assesses physical fitness, vision, hearing, and overall health to ensure the driver can safely operate commercial vehicles.

Residency: Applicants must be residents of the state where they are applying for the CDL.

Clean Driving Record: CDL holders must have a clean driving record to get a CDL and maintain a clean driving record to keep their licenses in good standing. Repeated traffic violations, DUI convictions, or other serious infractions can lead to the suspension or revocation of a CDL.

Completed Entry-Level Driver Training: According to the FMCSA, drivers applying for a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time after February 7, 2022 must complete entry-level driver training with a registered training provider prior to testing.

The first step of getting a CDL is to get a copy of your state’s CDL manual because each state has its processes for obtaining a CDL you need to follow.

The second step is to get your commercial learner’s permit (CLP). A CLP authorizes you to practice on public roads with a qualified CDL holder beside you. Also, most types of commercial driving require a DOT medical card, requiring a DOT physical to ensure you are medically capable of driving a commercial vehicle. To get a permit you must pass a written knowledge test covering topics such as road safety, vehicle operation, and state-specific regulations.

Step three is to complete entry-level driver training with a registered training provider before you take your Skills Test. Some states may have additional requirements above and beyond what the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires.

The final step is to get the CDL by passing all three parts of the Skills Test: the Vehicle Inspection Test, the Basic Controls Test, and the Road Test. Once you have passed the Skills Test, and paid all fees, some states will give you the CDL that same day, while others will send it to you in the mail.

CDL truck drivers are classified based on their level of experience and qualifications. The highest level is a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This license indicates the most comprehensive knowledge and advanced skills necessary to operate the largest and heaviest vehicles, including tractor-trailers, buses, tankers, livestock carriers, flatbeds, doubles/triples, and other large commercial motor vehicles. Obtaining a Class A CDL requires a significant commitment in time and effort. Still, it provides rewards beyond what other levels of CDLs can offer – increased job opportunities with higher income potential.

To obtain a Class A license, an individual must pass a written test and a driving test that requires operating such vehicles in real traffic situations. In addition to passing the driving test, truck drivers with a Class A CDL must also demonstrate proficiency in vehicle inspections and general safety rules while carrying hazardous materials. Lastly, Class A CDL truck drivers must also pass a medical examination to show that they are medically qualified to operate Class A vehicles safely.  

Obtain Endorsements (if necessary): Some specialized driving jobs may require additional endorsements, such as the HAZMAT endorsement for transporting hazardous materials or the passenger endorsement for driving buses. Each endorsement typically requires passing a separate knowledge test and, in some cases, a skills test.

When you move to another state, you must transfer your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to your new state of residence. It generally involves a straightforward process; however, you must follow specific steps and requirements to ensure a smooth transfer.

Upon establishing residency in your new state, you typically have a limited time window, usually 30-60 days, to transfer your CDL. This time frame may vary depending on the specific state regulations. It is essential to initiate the transfer process as soon as possible to avoid penalties or the need to retake CDL examinations.

To transfer your CDL, visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or a similar agency in your new state. Be prepared to provide the following documentation:

• Your current, valid CDL from your previous state.
• Proof of residency in the new state (such as a utility bill, rental agreement, or mortgage statement).
• Proof of identity, which may include your birth certificate, passport, or Social Security card.
• A completed CDL application form for your new state.
• A valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate or DOT medical card.

Upon submitting your application and supporting documents, you may be required to pass a vision test and, in some cases, a knowledge test specific to your new state’s laws and regulations. However, the skills test is generally waived, as you have already demonstrated your driving abilities when obtaining your initial CDL.

You may also have to transfer any additional endorsements, such as HAZMAT, passenger, or tanker endorsements, when transferring your CDL. Depending on the endorsement type, this process may involve additional knowledge tests or background checks.

After completing the necessary tests and submitting your documentation, your new state’s licensing agency will issue you a CDL, effectively transferring your license. It would be best to surrender your previous state’s CDL, as you cannot simultaneously hold CDLs from multiple states.