Truck Driver Career Guide in Tennessee
Explore truck driver salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Tennessee.
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How to Become a Truck Driver in Tennessee
Tennessee CDL programs teach inspections, backing, coupling, shifting, defensive driving, cargo securement, hours-of-service compliance, and preparation for CDL testing. Several major carriers also operate paid or tuition-supported driver-training pathways.
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 Tennessee
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Tennessee 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 Tennessee is approximately $1,180 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Truck Drivers in Tennessee
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 Tennessee
Tennessee heavy truck drivers generally need a Class A CDL and must complete applicable federal Entry-Level Driver Training requirements.
- Meet state age, identity, residency, driving-record, and medical-certification requirements.
- Pass knowledge examinations and obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
- Complete required theory and behind-the-wheel training with an FMCSA-registered provider.
- Pass the Tennessee CDL vehicle-inspection, basic-control, and road tests.
- Obtain cargo- or vehicle-specific endorsements and complete employer safety training when required.
Truck Driver Training Providers in Tennessee
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee College of Applied Technology Knoxville | Knoxville | View Program |
| Tennessee College of Applied Technology Nashville | Nashville | View Program |
| Chattanooga State Community College | Chattanooga | View Program |
| Southwest Tennessee Community College | Memphis | 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 Tennessee
Tennessee Registered Apprenticeship
Organization: Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development
Truck Driver Licensing Requirements in Tennessee
Tennessee tractor-trailer drivers must hold the appropriate CDL, normally Class A. New drivers must obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit, complete ELDT with an FMCSA-listed provider, pass the state skills test, and maintain medical certification.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSTruck Driver Job Outlook in Tennessee
Tennessee projects employment to grow from approximately 64,910 drivers in 2022 to 71,380 in 2032, representing 10% growth and approximately 7,720 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 Tennessee?
The statewide median wage for truck drivers in Tennessee is approximately $58,620 per year, or $28.18 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Tennessee require truck driver licensing?
Yes. Tennessee 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 Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security.
How long does it take to become a truck driver in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee projects truck driver employment to grow by approximately 10% from 2022 to 2032, with about 7,720 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
- Tennessee Wages for Truck Driver (SOC 53-3032) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Tennessee Truck Driver Wages
- Tennessee Truck Driver Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Tennessee Truck Driver Employment Trends
- Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security — Licensing authority. Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security