How to Prepare for Your First Truck Driver Interview
Imagine this scenario. With your commercial driver’s license (CDL) firmly in hand, you walk confidently into the carrier’s recruiting office and await your first truck driver interview. You prepared for the list of truck driver interview questions the hiring manager will ask and have a few of your own.
But how do you know what questions to expect? This post can help.
We’ll review some common truck driver interview questions that give insight into the skills truck drivers should have, along with a few questions to ask the employer.
Questions the Employer May Ask
Could you tell me a little about yourself?
This question serves as a conversation starter. Be ready to answer, but don’t be wordy with your response. Share some personal details and work history.
Do you have truck driving experience?
If you’re coming right out of truck driving training school and just received your CDL, the answer is likely “no.” Don’t let that discourage you. Carriers are in dire need of drivers. Many are happy to bring on new drivers, especially those from accredited training schools.
What credentials do you have that qualify you to be a commercial truck driver?
Of course, you have your CDL, but this question relates to any special licenses or certifications you may hold and gives the employer insight into the types of jobs you can get with a CDL.
What are your career plans?
Carriers want to know you are in this for the long haul and that it’s not just a step on your way to a different career.
How would you handle a stressful situation, such as a breakdown or accident?
Truck driving comes with many stressors. You need to assure the interviewer that stress won’t impact your decision-making.
How important is communication in truck driving?
Good communication skills are vital in truck driving, especially when communicating with a dispatcher or customers.
What Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) protocols should you follow as a truck driver?
As an applicant, you should be well informed of FMCSA regulations and aware the DOT could penalize the company if you do not comply with them.
Have you ever been in an accident or received a traffic ticket? If so, describe the circumstances surrounding each.
Employers want to know if you have a clean driving record and, if not, why. Be accountable and honest in your response. They will likely run a background check and drug test if they hire you.
What is your truck driving preference: local delivery driver, regional, or long-haul?
Your answer provides insight into the types of jobs you can get with your CDL.
The employer may also ask questions like, “What is your greatest strength and greatest weakness?” and “What is your availability?” Be prepared to answer.
Questions to Ask the Employer
If the employer lets you ask questions, take advantage of the opportunity. Asking questions is an indication that you are interested in the company and job and could make a favorable impression on the interviewer.
Questions to ask the employer include:
- What are you looking for in a candidate?
- What are my role’s expectations in the first 90 days of employment?
- When will the company evaluate my performance?
- What training and advancement opportunities does the company offer?
- What benefits does the company offer?
- Who will I report to?
Truck driving school training is the best way to prepare for your first job interview. Contact us to learn how The CDL School can help you land the job of your dreams. For more information and ready to be filled jobs visit Transforce.com
