Working as a truck driver can lead to a rewarding career. However, candidates who are new to the field may assume that they have limited options about where that career can head. In reality, there are plenty of different paths available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. 

Whether you’re open to long haul, prefer home daily trucking jobs, or simply aren’t sure which of the available roads is best, here’s a look at the common truck driver career options. 

Owner-Operator

The truck driver career option that gives you the most control is owner-operator. You own or lease the tractor you drive, allowing you to select one that meets your unique needs and avoid having to use vehicles that aren’t to your liking. However, that does mean you’re responsible for fuel and maintenance costs, though the roles do usually come with higher pay, which may offset that. 

When it comes to jobs and routes, owner-operators may work for one or several companies. With this arrangement, you can typically choose the loads you’ll carry, allowing you to make decisions about your work schedule. As a result, it can provide a degree of freedom you don’t get otherwise. 

Company Driver

As a company driver, you don’t necessarily have to own your own tractor, which means you don’t have to worry about maintenance and fuel costs. Additionally, it allows you to work for a single organization, which may lead to greater stability. 

In some cases, company drivers secure a CDL before they’re eligible for the position. However, certain ones may be willing to help you secure the needed training or even assist you with earning your CDL, which can be beneficial. 

Any routes you drive will be set by the company. Usually, you’re paid by the mile, which can help you estimate the value of the route. Some companies operate nationally, while others are regional and local. As a result, you can find options that keep you on the road, let you come home each night, or anything in between. 

Over-the-Road

Over-the-road (OTR) truck driving jobs involve traveling across any of the lower 48 states and potentially into Mexico or Canada. Commonly referred to as long-haul drivers, it isn’t uncommon to spend several weeks on the road at a time before returning home. 

LocalTruck Driving

Local drivers are typically home daily. They remain near the starting point of the route, usually remaining within a single state or a smaller area.  

Regional Truck Driving

With regional CDL driving jobs, drivers may travel around in select states. For example, they may be limited to the West Coast, often staying out for several days or weeks at a time, but home more often than OTR jobs usually allow. 

Dedicated CDL Driver

If you are driving a dedicated route, you move between just a few set locations. This allows you to become familiar with the roads involved, as well as forge stronger relationships with customers, which can make the work more rewarding. 

Find A CDL Job That Works For Your Lifestyle

Ultimately, there are far more truck driver career options than many people would expect. If you’re interested in home daily trucking jobs, the team at PTS® wants to hear from you. Our driving recruiters will listen to your goals and connect you with carriers that meet your needs. Contact our truck driver temp agency to speak with a recruiter today.