Getting a traffic ticket can feel like a career roadblock—especially if you’re applying to trucking jobs. The good news is that many Trucking Companies That Hire With Tickets understand that mistakes happen. This guide explains which violations matter most, how trucking companies evaluate tickets, and what you can do to improve your chances of getting hired.
Do Trucking Companies Hire Drivers With Tickets?
Yes—many do.
Most trucking companies look at the type, severity, and recency of tickets rather than disqualifying drivers automatically.
Under federal oversight by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), carriers must ensure drivers meet safety standards—but they also have flexibility in hiring decisions.
Read too: Franklin Truck Parts Near Me: Your Complete Guide to Local Truck Parts & Repair Solutions
For general background on traffic violations, see this neutral reference:
👉 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Traffic_ticket
What Types of Tickets Matter Most to Trucking Companies?
Not all tickets are equal. Employers typically separate violations into minor, serious, and major categories.
1. Minor Tickets (Often Acceptable)
These usually don’t stop hiring if they’re limited in number.
- Speeding under 10–15 mph
- Improper lane change
- Failure to signal
- Non-moving violations
📌 Many companies allow 1–3 minor tickets within 3 years.
2. Serious Tickets (Case-by-Case Review)
These raise red flags but don’t always mean rejection.
- Speeding 15+ mph
- Following too closely
- Cell phone use while driving
- Failure to obey traffic control devices
Companies may require:
- More experience
- Safety training
- Longer review period
3. Major Violations (Often Disqualifying)
These usually prevent hiring—at least temporarily.
- DUI/DWI
- Reckless driving
- Hit-and-run
- License suspension
⛔ Most carriers require 3–7 years violation-free after major offenses.
How Far Back Do Trucking Companies Look at Tickets?
This is one of the most common questions drivers ask.
Typical review periods:
- 3 years: Most moving violations
- 5 years: Serious violations
- 7–10 years: DUI or felony-related offenses
🧠 Expert insight: Tickets older than 3 years carry far less weight—especially if your recent record is clean.
Why Some Trucking Companies Are More Flexible
Certain companies are more open to drivers with tickets due to:
- High freight demand
- Driver shortages
- Focus on regional or dedicated routes
- Internal training and safety programs
These carriers often prioritize recent behavior, not old mistakes.
Types of Trucking Companies That Hire With Tickets
Rather than naming fixed lists (which change often), it’s smarter to understand company types.
1. Second-Chance Trucking Companies
These companies specialize in hiring drivers with:
- Minor violations
- Employment gaps
- Limited experience
They often provide:
- Extra safety training
- Probationary periods
2. Regional & Dedicated Carriers
Local or regional routes reduce risk exposure, making companies more flexible.
Benefits:
- Shorter hauls
- Predictable schedules
- More driver oversight
3. Small to Mid-Sized Fleets
Smaller companies often:
- Review drivers individually
- Look beyond automated filters
- Value honesty and references
4. Owner-Operator Friendly Carriers
If you own your truck, some carriers are more flexible since risk is shared differently.
Well-Known Companies Known for Flexible Hiring (Industry Examples)
Policies change, but these companies are commonly discussed in the industry for reviewing applications case by case:
- Western Express – Known for second-chance hiring
- CR England – Training and re-entry programs
- Swift Transportation – Large carrier with varied hiring lanes
- Schneider – Structured safety review process
⚠️ Always verify current policies directly with recruiters.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired With Tickets
Step-by-Step Strategy
Step 1: Be Honest
Never hide violations. Background checks will reveal them.
Step 2: Show Improvement
- Clean record since the ticket
- Completion of safety courses
Step 3: Target the Right Companies
Avoid ultra-strict carriers if you know your record is borderline.
Step 4: Get Professional Help
Some recruiters and CDL placement services specialize in drivers with violations.
What Recruiters Look for Beyond Tickets
Tickets are only one part of the picture.
Recruiters also evaluate:
- Driving experience
- Employment stability
- Attitude and communication
- Willingness to follow safety rules
💡 A respectful, transparent driver with one or two tickets often beats a risky driver with a clean record.
Pros and Cons of Working for Flexible-Hiring Trucking Companies
✅ Pros
- Second chance at a driving career
- Faster entry or re-entry
- Opportunity to rebuild record
❌ Cons
- Sometimes lower starting pay
- Stricter monitoring initially
- Limited route options
Comparison Table
| Factor | Flexible Hiring Company | Strict Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Hiring chance | ✅ Higher | ❌ Lower |
| Starting pay | ⚠️ Moderate | ✅ Higher |
| Oversight | ❌ Higher | ⚠️ Moderate |
| Growth potential | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
How Long Should You Wait Before Reapplying?
If you’ve been denied:
- Wait 6–12 months
- Maintain a clean record
- Gain experience or complete training
📈 Many drivers successfully reapply and get hired once their record improves slightly.
Common Myths About Tickets and Trucking Jobs
❌ Myth 1: “One ticket ends your career”
Fact: Many drivers get hired with minor tickets.
❌ Myth 2: “All companies have the same rules”
Fact: Hiring policies vary widely.
❌ Myth 3: “Older tickets don’t matter at all”
Fact: They matter less—but honesty still matters.
FAQ: Trucking Companies That Hire With Tickets
How many tickets are too many for trucking jobs?
It depends on the type, but 2–3 minor tickets in 3 years is often acceptable.
Can I get hired with a speeding ticket?
Yes, especially if it’s under 15 mph and not recent.
Do non-CDL tickets count?
Yes. Most companies review your full MVR, not just CDL-related tickets.
What if my ticket is still pending?
Some companies will wait for the outcome before hiring.
Can safety courses help?
Yes. They show responsibility and commitment to improvement.
Conclusion
Finding Trucking Companies That Hire With Tickets is absolutely possible if you understand how hiring decisions are made. Focus on honesty, improvement, and targeting the right type of carrier. One or two tickets don’t define your future—your recent driving behavior does.
If this guide helped you, share it on social media with other drivers who might be worried about their record. Clear information can help someone stay on the road and build a better trucking career. 🚛📘
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