First year truck driver pay
The truth about first year truck driver pay
Pay is an important aspect of any job and it’s one of the many ways we reward drivers’ hard work at Schneider. If you’re just starting out as a truck driver, you’re probably wondering what sort of pay you can expect while learning the ropes. That’s why we’ve provided a comprehensive breakdown of first year driver pay.
Schneider pay during your first year
Whatever type of pay package your driving job features, you have the potential to earn well above the industry average on your W-2 and earn great benefits.
- $49,920 – The average industry-wide driver wage for all experience levels (U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics).
- $61,864 – The average first-year Schneider truck driver pay (figures throughout this page based on this example).
- $130,000 – The average annual earnings for Schneider’s top drivers. Learn about truck driver pay after your first year, including top pay for each type of driving job and how pay is broken out: More on truck driver pay.
Full breakdown of first year truck driver pay
Pay starting off
- Paid CDL training options – If you already went to truck driving school and graduated within the last year, you may be able to take advantage of Schneider’s tuition reimbursement offerings. If you haven’t earned a CDL yet, check out Schneider’s CDL Apprenticeship Training.
- Paid orientation – Students receive compensation during orientation, and Schneider provides transportation to orientation and lodging during orientation, if applicable, as well as most meals.
Pay your first 3-6 months on the job
- 70-80% earnings capability – It takes a few months to adjust to life on the road, so don’t judge your career decision by your first couple paychecks.
Pay the last half of your first year
- Increasing experience and pay – Your efficiency will improve as you gain more driving experience. As your efficiency reaches 100%, you can expect your paychecks to approach $1,200/week.
Pay beyond your first year
- Keep growing your career – As you continue to gain experience, you’ll quickly climb the pay ladder — with automatic annual increases, regular pay package upgrades and expanding career paths.