Truck Driver Career Guide in Virginia
Explore truck driver salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Virginia.
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How to Become a Truck Driver in Virginia
Virginia CDL courses cover pre-trip inspection, air brakes, coupling, backing, shifting, highway driving, federal safety rules, and preparation for the state skills examination. Some carriers provide paid training and employment after the driver earns a permit.
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 Virginia
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Virginia 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 Virginia is approximately $580 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Truck Drivers in Virginia
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 Virginia
Virginia tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL and federally compliant Entry-Level Driver Training.
- Meet Virginia identity, residency, age, driving-record, and medical-certification requirements.
- Pass the required knowledge tests and obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit.
- Complete theory and behind-the-wheel training with an FMCSA-registered provider.
- Pass vehicle-inspection, basic-control, and on-road CDL skills tests.
- Add any endorsements required for hazardous materials, tanks, combination vehicles, passengers, or school buses.
Truck Driver Training Providers in Virginia
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Virginia Community College | Annandale | View Program |
| Tidewater Community College | Norfolk | View Program |
| Virginia Western Community College | Roanoke | View Program |
| Blue Ridge Community College | Weyers Cave | 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 Virginia
Truck Driver Licensing Requirements in Virginia
Virginia heavy and tractor-trailer drivers generally need a Class A CDL. Applicants must obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit, complete required entry-level driver training, meet federal medical standards, and pass Virginia CDL knowledge and skills tests.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSTruck Driver Job Outlook in Virginia
Virginia projects employment to increase from approximately 58,690 drivers in 2024 to 61,580 in 2034, representing 5% growth and about 6,530 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 Virginia?
The statewide median wage for truck drivers in Virginia is approximately $56,860 per year, or $27.34 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Virginia require truck driver licensing?
Yes. Virginia 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 Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.
How long does it take to become a truck driver in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia projects truck driver employment to grow by approximately 5% from 2024 to 2034, with about 6,530 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
- Virginia Wages for Truck Driver (SOC 53-3032) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Virginia Truck Driver Wages
- Virginia Truck Driver Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Virginia Truck Driver Employment Trends
- Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles — Licensing authority. Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles