Let’s Keep It Real — What Do New CDL Drivers Actually Earn?
If you’re thinking about switching careers and getting your CDL, you’ve probably asked the same question everyone asks:
“How much do truck drivers really make in their first year?”
The internet is full of hype, outdated info, and wildly different numbers.
So here’s the real, 2026-updated answer, clear, honest, and based on what new drivers are earning right now.
Average First-Year Pay for New CDL Drivers (2026)
Your first-year income depends on the type of route you choose. Here’s the REAL breakdown:
1. Local CDL Jobs (Home Every Day)
$50,000 – $68,000+ per year
Local jobs usually include:
- Grocery delivery
- Freight routes
- Dump trucks
- Cement mixers
- Local distribution centers
Pros:
✔ Home daily
✔ Stable schedule
✔ Great for parents and career changers
Cons:
– Slightly lower pay than regional/OTR
2. Regional Routes (Home Weekly)
$60,000 – $80,000+ per year
Regional drivers run in a multi-state area and typically get:
- Higher mileage
- More loads
- Better bonuses
Great balance of pay + home time.
3. OTR (Over-The-Road) – Highest First-Year Pay
$75,000 – $95,000+ per year
OTR is what most new drivers choose because the pay jumps quickly.
OTR drivers earn more because they get:
- Longer miles
- More consistent loads
- Add-on bonuses
This is the fastest path to a high first-year income.
How Some First-Year Drivers Hit $100k+
You may have heard new drivers breaking 6 figures — yes, it’s true, but here’s how they do it:
1️⃣ Add Endorsements
- Hazmat
- Tanker
- Doubles/Triples
Each endorsement increases your earning potential immediately.
2️⃣ Run Hard (If You Want To)
Drivers willing to run long miles or stay out longer often get:
- Per-mile bonuses
- Retention bonuses
- Performance bonuses
3️⃣ Team Driving
Team drivers can earn $90,000–$120,000 combined pay.
What Affects Your First-Year Income?
✔ Company You Work For
Some pay more for new drivers, especially in high-demand sectors.
✔ The Route You Choose
OTR > Regional > Local (in most cases)
✔ Your Attitude
Reliable drivers get more miles and better loads.
✔ Endorsements
Hazmat/Tanker drivers consistently earn the most.
✔ Safety Record
A clean record puts you at the top of the list for high-paying jobs.
Why CDL Drivers Earn More Than Many Degree Holders
This surprises most career changers:
A new CDL driver in 2026 often earns more than:
- Medical assistants
- Teachers (early career)
- Retail managers
- Office admins
- Many trade jobs
- Most gig workers
All without:
❌ college
❌ debt
❌ 4 years of waiting to start your career
You can train, test, and start earning in 6–8 weeks.
How CDL Schools Help You Earn More in Your First Year
A strong CDL school (like EZ Wheels) gives you:
✔ Quality training → higher test success
✔ Help preparing for endorsements
✔ Job placement support
✔ Connections to higher-paying carriers
✔ Interview prep
✔ Confidence behind the wheel
Your school plays a BIG role in your first-year income potential.
Your First Year in Trucking Could Be Your Highest-Earning Year Yet
If you’re looking for a career with:
✔ A fast path to good money
✔ Job security
✔ Benefits
✔ A clear career ladder
✔ Freedom and independence
Then, trucking is one of the best first-year earning opportunities available in 2026.
Ready to Start a High-Paying Career?
EZ Wheels Driving School helps career changers move from low pay to high income, fast.
You can start training this month and be earning more by early 2026.
Contact us and schedule a free CDL career consultation. Your best-paying year starts now!