Truck Driver Career Guide in Arkansas
Explore truck driver salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Arkansas.
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How to Become a Truck Driver in Arkansas
Arkansas CDL programs teach vehicle inspection, air brakes, backing, coupling, shifting, defensive driving, cargo securement, hours-of-service rules, and preparation for state testing. Several large Arkansas-based carriers offer company-sponsored training.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Truck Driver Salary in Arkansas
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Arkansas median wage for truck driver workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $57,440, the median wage in Arkansas is approximately $5,890 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Truck Drivers in Arkansas
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONTruck Driver Training Requirements in Arkansas
Arkansas tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL and must complete applicable federal Entry-Level Driver Training.
- Meet Arkansas identity, residency, age, driving-record, and medical requirements.
- Pass applicable knowledge tests and obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
- Complete ELDT theory, range, and public-road instruction with a registered provider.
- Pass vehicle-inspection, basic-control, and on-road CDL skills tests.
- Obtain required endorsements and complete employer-specific cargo and safety training.
Truck Driver Training Providers in Arkansas
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas State University–Newport | Newport | View Program |
| University of Arkansas–Pulaski Technical College | North Little Rock | View Program |
| National Park College | Hot Springs | View Program |
| South Arkansas College | El Dorado | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESTruck Driver Apprenticeship Programs in Arkansas
Arkansas Registered Apprenticeship
Organization: Arkansas Division of Workforce Services
Truck Driver Licensing Requirements in Arkansas
Arkansas heavy and tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL. Applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit, complete federally compliant ELDT, meet medical requirements, and pass Arkansas CDL knowledge and skills tests.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSTruck Driver Job Outlook in Arkansas
Arkansas projects employment to increase from approximately 36,390 drivers in 2022 to 37,990 in 2032, representing 4% growth and about 4,020 annual openings.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the truck driver salary in Arkansas?
The statewide median wage for truck drivers in Arkansas is approximately $51,550 per year, or $24.79 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Arkansas require truck driver licensing?
Yes. Arkansas requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt truck driver work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration — Driver Services.
How long does it take to become a truck driver in Arkansas?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 3–6 Months + OJT, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are truck drivers in demand in Arkansas?
Arkansas projects truck driver employment to grow by approximately 4% from 2022 to 2032, with about 4,020 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Arkansas Wages for Truck Driver (SOC 53-3032) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Arkansas Truck Driver Wages
- Arkansas Truck Driver Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Arkansas Truck Driver Employment Trends
- Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration — Driver Services — Licensing authority. Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration — Driver Services