Many people considering a second career or a return to the workforce ask, Do Trucking Companies Hire Older Drivers? With trucking facing ongoing driver shortages, age is less of a barrier than many assume. This guide explains whether trucking companies hire older drivers, what requirements matter most, and how mature drivers can successfully get hired in today’s trucking industry.
Short Answer: Do Trucking Companies Hire Older Drivers?
Yes—trucking companies do hire older drivers.
In fact, many trucking companies actively welcome older drivers because they value experience, maturity, and safety-focused driving habits. There is no maximum legal age limit for truck drivers in the United States, as long as drivers meet medical and licensing requirements.
Read too: Top Trucking Companies That Still Have Manual Transmissions
Is There an Age Limit for Truck Drivers in the US?
Federal Age Requirements
- 18 years old: Intrastate (within one state)
- 21 years old: Interstate (across state lines)
There is no upper age limit set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
📌 This means drivers in their 50s, 60s, and even 70s can legally drive commercial trucks.
Why Trucking Companies Hire Older Drivers
Trucking companies care far more about safety, reliability, and experience than age.
Key Reasons Older Drivers Are Valued
- Strong work ethic
- Better risk awareness
- Lower accident rates in many cases
- More patience and professionalism
- Better communication with dispatch and customers
Studies consistently show that experienced drivers often have fewer preventable accidents than inexperienced younger drivers.
Common Age Ranges in the Trucking Industry
The trucking workforce is older than many industries.
Industry Age Statistics
- Average truck driver age: mid-to-late 40s
- Many drivers remain active into their 60s
- Retirements are increasing, creating demand
This aging workforce is one reason companies are more open than ever to hiring older drivers.
Do Trucking Companies Discriminate by Age?
Legally, They Cannot
Age discrimination is prohibited under US employment law for workers 40 and older.
However, companies can evaluate:
- Driving record
- Medical fitness
- Safety history
📌 If an older driver meets requirements, age alone cannot disqualify them.
Medical Requirements for Older Truck Drivers
All CDL drivers must pass a DOT physical exam.
DOT Physical Basics
- Vision and hearing checks
- Blood pressure and heart health
- Mobility and reflex evaluation
- Medical history review
Certificate Duration
- Up to 2 years if healthy
- Shorter certification if conditions exist
📌 Many older drivers pass DOT physicals easily with proper health management.
Common Health Concerns (And How to Handle Them)
High Blood Pressure
- Often manageable with medication
- Usually not a disqualifier
Diabetes
- Allowed with proper documentation
- Insulin-treated drivers can still qualify
Sleep Apnea
- Treatable with CPAP compliance
Proactive health management is key for older drivers.
Types of Trucking Jobs Older Drivers Prefer
Many older drivers choose positions that prioritize work-life balance.
Popular Options
- Local delivery routes
- Regional runs
- Dedicated accounts
- Box truck or straight truck roles
- Hot shot trucking
These jobs often involve less physical strain and predictable schedules.
Pros and Cons of Trucking as an Older Driver
Advantages
- Stable income potential
- High demand for drivers
- No degree required
- Flexible job types
- Opportunity for second career
Challenges
- Long hours sitting
- Physical demands of loading/unloading
- Time away from home (OTR roles)
📌 Choosing the right type of trucking job minimizes these downsides.
How Older Drivers Can Improve Hiring Chances
1. Keep a Clean Driving Record
- Avoid recent tickets or accidents
- Maintain compliance
2. Pass DOT Physical Confidently
- Manage health proactively
- Bring medical documentation
3. Highlight Experience
- Emphasize reliability and safety
- Mention prior commercial or military driving
4. Choose the Right Company
- Look for safety-focused carriers
- Avoid high-turnover companies
Best Trucking Companies for Older Drivers
While policies vary, companies known for hiring older drivers often:
- Focus on safety metrics
- Offer local or regional routes
- Provide flexible schedules
Smaller regional carriers and dedicated fleets are often more age-friendly than mega-carriers.
Is Truck Driving Harder Physically With Age?
It can be—but it depends on the job.
Less Physical Roles
- Dry van
- No-touch freight
- Drop-and-hook operations
More Physical Roles
- Flatbed
- Furniture delivery
- Food service
📌 Older drivers often choose no-touch freight to reduce strain.
Can You Start Trucking at 50, 60, or Even 70?
Yes.
Many drivers:
- Start trucking after retirement
- Switch careers in their 50s
- Drive part-time in their 60s
Trucking schools report a growing number of students over 50 entering CDL programs.
Case Study: Starting Trucking at 58
A former warehouse manager earned his CDL at age 58.
Results
- Hired by a regional carrier
- Runs 4–5 days per week
- Earns stable income
- Plans to drive until 67
📊 Age did not limit hiring—preparation made the difference.
Insurance and Older Truck Drivers
Some insurers may:
- Require more experience
- Review safety records closely
However, age alone rarely blocks coverage, especially with a clean driving history.
What Matters More Than Age to Trucking Companies
Trucking companies prioritize:
- Safety record
- CDL validity
- Medical fitness
- Reliability
- Attitude and professionalism
📌 A healthy, responsible 60-year-old driver is often preferred over an unsafe younger driver.
Trucking Industry Outlook for Older Drivers
With continued driver shortages:
- Demand remains high
- Older drivers are increasingly valued
- Flexible roles are expanding
For general background on truck driving as a profession, see:
👉 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Truck_driver
(External authoritative source – Wikipedia)
FAQ – Do Trucking Companies Hire Older Drivers
Is there a maximum age to be a truck driver?
No. There is no maximum age limit as long as medical requirements are met.
Can a 60-year-old get a CDL job?
Yes. Many companies hire drivers in their 60s.
Do older drivers have trouble passing DOT physicals?
Not usually, especially with proper health management.
Are older drivers safer than younger drivers?
Often yes, due to experience and cautious driving habits.
Is trucking a good second career?
Yes. Trucking is one of the most common second careers in the US.
Conclusion: Do Trucking Companies Hire Older Drivers?
So, Do Trucking Companies Hire Older Drivers? Absolutely. Age is not a barrier in trucking—health, safety, and reliability matter far more. With no upper age limit and strong demand for drivers, trucking remains an excellent option for older individuals seeking stable income or a new career path.
By choosing the right type of trucking job, maintaining good health, and highlighting experience, older drivers can thrive in today’s trucking industry.
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