Truck Driver Career Guide in Mississippi
Explore truck driver salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Mississippi.
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How to Become a Truck Driver in Mississippi
Complete applicable entry-level driver training, obtain a commercial learner’s permit (CLP), and pass the required knowledge and skills tests.
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 Mississippi
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Mississippi 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 Mississippi is approximately $5,620 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Truck Drivers in Mississippi
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 Mississippi
Mississippi truck drivers operating tractor-trailer combinations generally need a Class A CDL. Training should cover vehicle inspection, basic control, road driving, cargo safety, and applicable federal regulations.
- Obtain a Mississippi commercial learner’s permit (CLP) and meet applicable medical and eligibility requirements.
- Complete required entry-level driver training with an FMCSA-registered provider.
- Pass the required CDL knowledge and skills tests; obtain endorsements when the cargo or equipment requires them.
Truck Driver Training Providers in Mississippi
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Hinds Community College | Richland | View Program |
| East Mississippi Community College | West Point | View Program |
| Northwest Mississippi Community College | Olive Branch | View Program |
| Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College | Perkinston | 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 Mississippi
Paid CDL Training / Heavy Truck Driver Apprenticeship
Organization: TMC Transportation
Truck Driver Licensing Requirements in Mississippi
Tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Mississippi Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL). Cargo-specific endorsements may also be required.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSTruck Driver Job Outlook in Mississippi
Employment is projected to grow 7% from 2024 to 2034, with approximately 2,980 openings annually.
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 Mississippi?
The statewide median wage for truck drivers in Mississippi is approximately $51,820 per year, or $24.92 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Mississippi require truck driver licensing?
Yes. Mississippi 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 Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver Service Bureau.
How long does it take to become a truck driver in Mississippi?
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 Mississippi?
Mississippi projects truck driver employment to grow by approximately 7% from 2024 to 2034, with about 2,980 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
- Mississippi Wages for Truck Driver (SOC 53-3032) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Mississippi Truck Driver Wages
- Mississippi Truck Driver Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Mississippi Truck Driver Employment Trends
- Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver Service Bureau — Licensing authority. Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Driver Service Bureau