Having a CDL qualifies you for more than just hauling freight however. If you have the proper training you can also transport dangerous and hazardous materials. There's special training required for this as the risk of an emergency is greater. This is especially true if you are involved in an accident.
However the pay for this type of work is much higher, and in most cases there are benefits offered. You can also take a job as a tanker driver if you desire. There is some extra training required for this as well but it mainly deals with the handling of the trailer. Tankers are different from normal trucks in the fact that their trailers are a giant tank with fluid in it.
This can range from toxic material to consumable liquids, but the handling is different. CDL jobs can also be found outside the areas of freight, waste, and food hauling. Some companies require people to operate transports or other large vehicles that require a CDL. Many large bus drivers have to get a CDL before they can perform their job as well.
Trucking companies in general will seek out the best candidates for their jobs. They don't want to hire just anyone to transport their goods. After all if something goes wrong then the company is penalized just as much as the driver. That being said safety training and safe driving techniques are emphasized here more than normal driving positions.
There are many different types of vehicles that require a CDL and special operating training. Semis are the dominant vehicles on the road, but large buses, smaller trucks, and even special delivery vehicles require truck driving training. This is usually due to their odd size and large weight. Make no mistake however an experience driver can handle one of these with ease.
However an inexperienced driver can cause quite a mess because they overestimate their abilities. This is why training and experience are important in the field. Having a clean driving record and no criminal record can also help you land a position as a truck driver. The training for this job type varies from location to location but in general it can take about 6 weeks of full time schooling in order for you to get your full education.
Training for CDL jobs usually involves learning about trucks, how they handle, what to do in an emergency, how to brake properly, log book management, and traffic laws. Some basic maintenance training is also offered so you can take care of your machine. Many trucking companies expect you to drive in hazardous conditions as well, so it's important that you know how to handle your machine in bad weather. Regardless of if you're hauling waste or transporting food remember to drive safely and always wear your seat belt.