Exploring career opportunities is essential when it comes to forging a better future after a criminal conviction. In the realm of transportation and logistics, obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) opens doors to a world of possibilities. Over 7.99 million people were employed throughout the economy in jobs related to trucking activity in 2021. But can you get a CDL with a felony?
Times are tough. Being a felon often restricts you from getting lucrative jobs that ensure you can provide for yourself and your family. Trucking, or CDL for felons, is a fantastic career opportunity with a decent salary, freedom of the open road, and the chance to dictate your own schedule. Remember, Trucks move about 72.5% of America’s freight by weight, which means a ton of job demand.
In this comprehensive truck driving jobs for felons guide, we’ll delve into acquiring a CDL, highlight the potential earnings, and provide a list of felon-friendly CDL jobs. Let’s embark on this journey toward a brighter horizon.
What is a CDL?
A CDL, or Commercial Driver’s License, is an essential requirement for individuals seeking employment in the trucking industry. With a CDL, you gain the legal authority to operate commercial vehicles such as tractor-trailers, buses, and other large-scale vehicles transporting goods and passengers.
You cannot drive any big rig or industrial equipment without CDL training for felons. Luckily, the job outlook for this career is massive. Pretty much every local, state, regional, and federal company is looking for experienced or eager-to-be-trained CDL drivers. There are 1,102,799 for-hire trucking carriers in the U.S. This is the perfect time to find felon-friendly CDL jobs.
Can a Felon Get a CDL?
Absolutely! A criminal conviction should not deter you from pursuing CDL jobs for felons. The trucking industry recognizes the value of second chances and welcomes individuals who are dedicated and committed to turning their lives around.
Again, it’s a supply and demand problem. Maybe at one point, companies were more selective about drivers, but given how many young adults don’t want to enter blue-collar jobs and the increasing demand for development projects, you can quickly find a CDL job for felon.
Some crimes will make it much harder to get your CDL as a felon. Those include:
- Using a commercial vehicle in the commission of a felony
- Manslaughter in the first or second degree with a motor vehicle
- Misconduct with a motor vehicle
- Causing a fatality through negligent/reckless vehicle operation
- Extortion
- Arson
- Treason
- Operating a car with a BAC of .08% or higher
- Kidnapping
- Assault with intent to murder
- Bribery
- Smuggling
In most cases, getting your CDL for felons depends on how long your criminal conviction is in the past. You would be surprised at the number of companies hiring you with a basic theft charge over someone with a clean record, but multiple speeding tickets. How you drive, your health, and your commitment to be a good employee matter way more than a past crime – especially if it has been 5, 7, or 10 years since going off paper.
What are the Steps to Getting Your CDL?
Step 1: Pass the Age Requirements
How to get CDL starts when you ensure you meet the minimum age requirements set by your state. Typically, this ranges from 18 to 21 years old, depending on the type of vehicle you intend to operate during CDL training for felons.
Step 2: Obtain your CLP
Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) by passing the written exams that cover general knowledge, air brakes, and endorsements specific to your desired CDL with felony classification.
Step 3: Sign Up for a CDL Program
Enroll in a reputable CDL training program that provides the necessary education and hands-on experience to prepare you for the CDL tests. These truck driving jobs for felons programs vary in length but can generally take between three weeks and six months.
Step 4: Pass Your CDL Knowledge & Skill Tests
Ace the CDL knowledge tests, which assess your understanding of vehicle operation, safety procedures, and relevant regulations. Additionally, demonstrate your driving skills during the CDL skills test, including pre-trip inspections, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving for any trucking jobs for felons.
Step 5: Ensure all Your Documents are Prepared
Gather the required documents, such as identification, proof of residency, Social Security number, and medical certification, to complete the CDL jobs for felons application process. How to become a truck driver starts with you keeping good paperwork. You’ll find that out for sure when you must maintain a driver’s log.
Step 6: Pass a Background Screening & Medical Test
Undergo a background screening, which may vary depending on your location and the prospective employer’s requirements. Additionally, pass a medical examination to ensure you meet the necessary physical qualifications for a CDL. In general, they want to be sure you can handle driving for extended periods of time safely because you don’t have any major heart, eye, or system problems.
Step 7: Fulfill any State Specific Requirements
Be aware of any additional requirements mandated by your state, such as fingerprinting, hazmat endorsements, or specialized endorsements for transporting passengers or hazardous materials.
How Much Can You Make as a Felon with a CDL?
Truck drivers with a CDL for felons can earn a significant income, often surpassing the average base salary. In fact, according to industry data, truck drivers with a CDL make approximately +7.59% more than the average base salary, which amounts to an average of $83,805 per year.
That type of trucking jobs for felons salary is more than the national average for a family of four. Meaning you can earn a solid living for yourself and your family without needing a college degree or years of experience building an online business when working from home as a felon. Plus, you can listen to all the music, podcasts, and audiobooks you want without a boss breathing down your back.
Load and unload times dictate how much flexibility you have in your trucker work schedule and also depend on your chosen career path. In a typical week, a driver can expect to work about 40-60 hours. In the U.S., drivers are limited to 60 hours on duty over 7 days or 70 hours over 8 days by the FMCSA, leaving you plenty of time to find felon-friendly apartments and housing.
Being a trucker means enjoying meeting people from all walks of life and creating a stress-free lifestyle. As long as you complete your delivery times, the rest is simple. This is way more than can a felon drive Uber. Find a truck driving jobs for felons today!
List of Decent Felon-Friendly CDL Jobs
The trucking industry offers various opportunities for individuals with past convictions. Here are some notable felon-friendly CDL jobs to consider:
- Local Delivery Driver
- Dump Truck Driver
- Courier Driver
- Moving Van Driver
- Food Service Delivery Driver
- Waste Management Driver
- Construction Equipment Operator
- Tow Truck Operator
- Bus Driver
- Delivery Driver for E-commerce Companies
If you are looking for specific trucking companies, try these truck driving for felons providers:
What to Prepare When Applying to Trucking Companies as a Felon
When applying for trucking jobs as a felon, it’s essential to be prepared. You want to walk into that interview, showing you are taking this career seriously and want to contribute to the well-being of the company hiring you. As long as they see the determination and commitment to success in your eyes, you should be great.
- Be Honest & Upfront: When filling out applications or attending interviews, be transparent about your past convictions. Emphasize the positive changes you have made and your commitment to maintaining a law-abiding lifestyle.
- Have Your Resume with Employment History: Create a professional resume highlighting your relevant work experience, including any previous trucking or transportation-related jobs. Focus on showcasing your skills, reliability, and dedication.
- Have Your Driving Record: Obtain a copy of your driving record and ensure it reflects responsible driving habits. A clean driving record demonstrates your commitment to safety and can boost your chances of securing employment.
- Show Medical Certification: Obtain the necessary medical certification, which verifies your physical fitness to operate a commercial vehicle. This certification showcases your commitment to maintaining good health and meeting industry standards.
Conclusion
Acquiring a CDL opens up a world of opportunities for individuals with past convictions seeking a better life. Despite the challenges, the trucking industry values determination, reliability, and a commitment to personal growth. Following the outlined steps, being prepared, and exploring felon-friendly CDL jobs can pave a successful path in the trucking industry.
FAQs
What disqualifies you from getting a CDL?
Certain factors, such as a history of serious traffic violations, drug or alcohol-related convictions, or disqualifying medical conditions, can impact your eligibility for a CDL. However, it’s essential to check with your state’s specific regulations for CDL for felons and consult a professional for guidance. You may even be able to find temp agencies for felons in the trucking agency.
Can a convicted felon get a CDL license in Florida?
Yes, individuals with past convictions can pursue a CDL license in Florida. However, it’s important to understand the state’s specific truck driving for felons regulations and requirements regarding background checks and disqualifying offenses.
Are there grants available for felons to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in the US?
Yes, grants and financial assistance programs are available to help felons obtain a CDL. Research organizations, government agencies, and vocational training programs that offer financial aid specifically targeted toward individuals with past convictions.
How can I find and apply for CDL grants for felons?
To find CDL grants for felons, conduct online research, contact local community organizations, and explore vocational training programs offering financial assistance.
Consult with workforce development agencies or contact state-specific reentry programs for further guidance and resources. There are many driving jobs for felons.
Some great places to start include:
- Grants.gov
- GoFundMe
- Inmates to Entrepreneurs
- State Government and Local Agencies
- IndieGoGo
Remember, with determination, the right preparation, and a commitment to personal growth, you can embark on a rewarding journey in the trucking industry with a CDL. Embrace the opportunities and drive towards a brighter future.
If you would like to learn more about changing your life after a felony conviction, check out the guide Getting Out: success after incarceration available on Amazon.
