Truck Driver Career Guide in Louisiana
Explore truck driver salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Louisiana.
Career Guide Navigation
How to Become a Truck Driver in Louisiana
Louisiana CDL training covers vehicle inspection, air brakes, combination vehicles, backing, shifting, highway operation, cargo securement, hours-of-service compliance, and state test preparation.
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 Louisiana
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Louisiana 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 Louisiana is approximately $8,120 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Truck Drivers in Louisiana
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 Louisiana
Louisiana tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL and must complete federal Entry-Level Driver Training.
- Meet Louisiana identity, residency, age, driving-record, and medical requirements.
- Pass the applicable knowledge examinations and obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
- Complete theory and behind-the-wheel ELDT with an FMCSA-listed provider.
- Pass vehicle-inspection, basic-control, and public-road CDL skills tests.
- Obtain required endorsements and complete employer training for cargo, weather, ports, or specialized equipment.
Truck Driver Training Providers in Louisiana
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Delgado Community College | New Orleans | View Program |
| SOWELA Technical Community College | Lake Charles | View Program |
| Northshore Technical Community College | Lacombe | View Program |
| South Louisiana Community College | Lafayette | 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 Louisiana
Truck Driver Licensing Requirements in Louisiana
Louisiana heavy and tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL. Applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit, complete federal ELDT, meet medical requirements, and pass Louisiana knowledge and skills tests.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSTruck Driver Job Outlook in Louisiana
Louisiana projects employment to increase from approximately 28,490 drivers in 2024 to 29,820 in 2034, representing 5% growth and about 3,060 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 Louisiana?
The statewide median wage for truck drivers in Louisiana is approximately $49,320 per year, or $23.71 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Louisiana require truck driver licensing?
Yes. Louisiana 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 Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles.
How long does it take to become a truck driver in Louisiana?
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 Louisiana?
Louisiana projects truck driver employment to grow by approximately 5% from 2024 to 2034, with about 3,060 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
- Louisiana Wages for Truck Driver (SOC 53-3032) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Louisiana Truck Driver Wages
- Louisiana Truck Driver Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Louisiana Truck Driver Employment Trends
- Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles — Licensing authority. Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles