Truck Driver Career Guide in Colorado
Explore truck driver salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Colorado.
Career Guide Navigation
How to Become a Truck Driver in Colorado
Colorado CDL programs cover inspections, backing, air brakes, coupling, shifting, cargo securement, mountain driving, adverse weather, braking on grades, and federal motor-carrier safety regulations.
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 Colorado
State-specific wage data is not currently displayed for truck driver workers in Colorado. The salary figure shown on this page uses the national median wage reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Licensing Authority for Truck Drivers in Colorado
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 Colorado
Colorado tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL and federally compliant Entry-Level Driver Training.
- Meet Colorado identity, residency, age, driving-record, and medical-certification requirements.
- Pass the applicable knowledge tests and obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
- Complete ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel training with an FMCSA-listed provider.
- Pass vehicle-inspection, basic-control, and on-road CDL skills tests.
- Complete employer training for mountain grades, winter conditions, cargo securement, and specialized equipment.
Truck Driver Training Providers in Colorado
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Aims Community College | Greeley | View Program |
| Community College of Aurora | Aurora | View Program |
| Pueblo Community College | Pueblo | View Program |
| Sage Truck Driving School | Denver | 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 Colorado
Truck Driver Licensing Requirements in Colorado
Colorado tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL. Applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit, complete required ELDT, meet federal medical standards, and pass Colorado CDL knowledge and skills tests.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSTruck Driver Job Outlook in Colorado
Colorado’s latest O*NET state projection shows employment increasing from approximately 29,890 drivers in 2024 to 33,420 in 2034, representing 12% growth and approximately 3,550 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 Colorado?
A state-specific median wage for truck drivers in Colorado is not currently displayed. The national median shown on this page is approximately $57,440 per year, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Colorado require truck driver licensing?
Yes. Colorado 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 Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles.
How long does it take to become a truck driver in Colorado?
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 Colorado?
Colorado projects truck driver employment to grow by approximately 12% from 2024 to 2034, with about 3,550 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
- Colorado Wages for Truck Driver (SOC 53-3032) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Colorado Truck Driver Wages
- Colorado Truck Driver Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Colorado Truck Driver Employment Trends
- Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles — Licensing authority. Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles