Truck Driver Career Guide in New Jersey
Explore truck driver salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in New Jersey.
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How to Become a Truck Driver in New Jersey
New Jersey has multiple Class A training schools. The four employer pathways below recruit across multiple states, and admission or placement for New Jersey residents must be checked with the sponsor. Knight’s paid on-road instruction follows CDL school.
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 New Jersey
The salary figure shown on this page represents the New Jersey 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 New Jersey is approximately $6,130 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Truck Drivers in New Jersey
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 New Jersey
To become a tractor-trailer driver in New Jersey:
- Obtain a New Jersey commercial learner’s permit (CLP).
- Complete applicable FMCSA entry-level driver training (ELDT).
- Meet medical requirements and pass CDL knowledge and skills tests.
- Obtain a Class A CDL for qualifying tractor-trailer combinations.
- Obtain additional endorsements when the vehicle or cargo requires them.
Truck Driver Training Providers in New Jersey
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Smith & Solomon Commercial Driver Training | Linden | View Program |
| EZ Wheels Driving School | Hopelawn | View Program |
| Driving Academy | Linden | View Program |
| Winsor CDL Driving School | Linden | 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 New Jersey
Truck Driver Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
New Jersey requires a CDL for qualifying heavy commercial vehicles. Class A covers qualifying tractor-trailer combinations. Applicants need a CLP, applicable ELDT, medical qualification, and successful knowledge and skills tests. New Jersey permits qualifying intrastate CDL driving from age 18; interstate drivers must meet the federal minimum age of 21.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSTruck Driver Job Outlook in New Jersey
Employment is projected to grow 7% from 2024 to 2034, with approximately 5,850 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 New Jersey?
The statewide median wage for truck drivers in New Jersey is approximately $63,570 per year, or $30.56 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does New Jersey require truck driver licensing?
Yes. New Jersey 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 New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission.
How long does it take to become a truck driver in New Jersey?
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 New Jersey?
New Jersey projects truck driver employment to grow by approximately 7% from 2024 to 2034, with about 5,850 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
- New Jersey Wages for Truck Driver (SOC 53-3032) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. New Jersey Truck Driver Wages
- New Jersey Truck Driver Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. New Jersey Truck Driver Employment Trends
- New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission — Licensing authority. New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission