Truck Driver Career Guide in Montana
Explore truck driver salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Montana.
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How to Become a Truck Driver in Montana
Obtain a CLP, complete applicable ELDT, and pass the required CDL examinations.
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 Montana
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Montana 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 Montana is approximately $1,430 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Truck Drivers in Montana
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 Montana
Montana tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL. Training should cover vehicle inspection, range maneuvers, road driving, cargo safety, and commercial driving regulations.
- Meet Montana eligibility and medical requirements and obtain a commercial learner’s permit.
- Complete applicable entry-level driver training through an FMCSA-registered provider.
- Pass the required CDL tests and obtain endorsements for specialized loads or equipment when applicable.
Truck Driver Training Providers in Montana
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Great Falls College Montana State University | Great Falls | View Program |
| Flathead Valley Community College | Kalispell | View Program |
| City College at Montana State University Billings | Billings | View Program |
| SAGE Truck Driving Schools | Billings | 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 Montana
Paid CDL Training / Heavy Truck Driver Apprenticeship
Organization: TMC Transportation
Truck Driver Licensing Requirements in Montana
Montana generally requires a Class A CDL for tractor-trailer combinations. Interstate operation and specialized cargo may add requirements.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSTruck Driver Job Outlook in Montana
Employment is projected to grow 12% from 2022 to 2032, with approximately 970 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 Montana?
The statewide median wage for truck drivers in Montana is approximately $58,870 per year, or $28.30 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Montana require truck driver licensing?
Yes. Montana 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 Montana Department of Justice, Motor Vehicle Division.
How long does it take to become a truck driver in Montana?
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 Montana?
Montana projects truck driver employment to grow by approximately 12% from 2022 to 2032, with about 970 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
- Montana Wages for Truck Driver (SOC 53-3032) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Montana Truck Driver Wages
- Montana Truck Driver Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Montana Truck Driver Employment Trends
- Montana Department of Justice, Motor Vehicle Division — Licensing authority. Montana Department of Justice, Motor Vehicle Division