If you’ve been cited for speeding and you’re worried about finding work, you’re not alone. Many truck drivers face the same problem — a few speeding tickets can make it seem impossible to get back behind the wheel. The good news is that there are trucking companies that will hire with speeding tickets, depending on how serious and recent the violations are.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore which companies are open to hiring drivers with minor or past speeding tickets, what their requirements are, and how you can improve your chances of landing a CDL job again.
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Understanding How Speeding Tickets Affect CDL Drivers
A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) comes with stricter standards than a regular driver’s license. That means a speeding violation can have bigger consequences — both legally and professionally.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), serious speeding violations (15 mph or more over the limit) can lead to CDL suspension after multiple offenses. But not all speeding tickets are equal.
| Type of Violation | Example | Typical Impact on Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Minor speeding (1–10 mph) | Going 5 mph over limit | Usually overlooked |
| Moderate speeding (11–14 mph) | 12 mph over limit | May require explanation |
| Serious speeding (15+ mph) | 18 mph over limit | Could lead to short suspension |
| Repeated offenses | 2+ in 3 years | High risk for termination or rejection |
Note: Some companies will hire after a “clean period” — typically 12 to 36 months after the last major offense.
Top Trucking Companies That Will Hire With Speeding Tickets
Here’s a list of reputable U.S. trucking companies known for hiring drivers with minor or older speeding violations. Each has slightly different policies, so review carefully before applying.
1. Western Express
Hiring Policy: Accepts drivers with minor violations, as long as there are no serious or reckless driving offenses in the past 12 months.
Highlights:
- Offers paid CDL training and refresher programs.
- Accepts drivers with up to 3 minor moving violations in 36 months.
- Great for drivers re-entering the industry.
Average Pay: $900–$1,300 per week (based on experience).
2. CR England
Hiring Policy: Considers applicants with speeding tickets older than 12 months and no major violations in the last 3 years.
Highlights:
- Known for its driver training programs.
- Focuses on long-haul freight and reefer trucking.
- Provides tuition reimbursement for new drivers.
Average Pay: $55,000–$75,000 per year.
3. Schneider National
Hiring Policy: Accepts drivers with up to two minor violations in 36 months, including speeding under 15 mph.
Highlights:
- Excellent safety culture.
- Modern fleet with driver-friendly tech.
- Opportunities for regional and dedicated routes.
Average Pay: $1,000–$1,400 per week.
4. Roehl Transport
Hiring Policy: Open to drivers with minor speeding tickets if they occurred more than 12 months ago.
Highlights:
- Offers paid CDL training and guaranteed weekly pay.
- Emphasizes safety and career development.
Average Pay: $65,000+ annually with bonuses.
5. Swift Transportation
Hiring Policy: Accepts drivers with up to two minor speeding tickets in the past 3 years.
Highlights:
- One of the largest trucking companies in the U.S.
- Offers mentorship programs for new CDL drivers.
- 401(k), health insurance, and paid time off benefits.
Average Pay: $1,200–$1,500 weekly (varies by route).
6. Werner Enterprises
Hiring Policy: Considers drivers with speeding violations as long as they don’t exceed 15 mph over the limit and occurred 12+ months ago.
Highlights:
- Focus on long-haul and dedicated freight.
- Extensive safety and maintenance programs.
Average Pay: $60,000–$80,000 per year.
7. Knight Transportation
Hiring Policy: Allows up to 3 minor traffic violations in 36 months.
Highlights:
- Strong training for entry-level drivers.
- Safety bonuses and driver recognition programs.
Average Pay: $1,000–$1,300 per week.
8. Prime Inc.
Hiring Policy: May consider drivers with minor speeding violations after 12 months of clean driving.
Highlights:
- Provides paid CDL training for new drivers.
- Known for high safety standards and excellent benefits.
Average Pay: $0.50–$0.70 per mile.
What Disqualifies You from Most Trucking Jobs?
While some companies are forgiving, certain violations are considered serious red flags for most employers.
| Disqualifying Violation | Hiring Outlook |
|---|---|
| DUI/DWI (within 5 years) | Not accepted by most carriers |
| Reckless driving | Highly disqualifying |
| Hit and run | Almost always disqualifying |
| License suspension (within 12 months) | Usually requires waiting period |
| Speeding 15+ mph (multiple times) | May need 3+ years clean record |
If you have multiple serious violations, your best bet is to wait 2–3 years before applying to major carriers or start with smaller regional companies that are more flexible.
How To Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired After Speeding Tickets
Even if your record isn’t perfect, there are practical ways to boost your chances:
- Complete a defensive driving course.
Many companies see this as a sign of responsibility and may overlook older tickets. - Get your MVR (Motor Vehicle Report) cleaned.
After 3 years, many minor violations are automatically removed from your record. - Be honest on applications.
Lying about your driving history can lead to instant disqualification. - Apply to smaller fleets first.
Local or regional companies often have more flexible policies than national carriers. - Maintain consistent work history.
Gaps in employment can raise red flags during background checks. - Provide strong references.
A good recommendation from a former supervisor can offset a less-than-perfect record.
Kelebihan vs Kekurangan: Working for Forgiving Trucking Companies
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easier to get hired with past violations | May offer lower starting pay |
| Opportunity to rebuild driving record | Fewer route options at first |
| Experience with entry-level or local jobs | Limited bonuses or benefits early on |
| Chance for career progression after 12–24 months | Must maintain perfect safety moving forward |
Statistics on Driver Violations and Hiring Trends
According to FMCSA 2024 data, over 22% of CDL drivers had at least one moving violation in the past 3 years. However, driver shortages have led many companies to re-evaluate strict hiring policies.
A 2025 report by the American Trucking Associations (ATA) revealed that more than 60,000 driver positions remain unfilled, prompting carriers to be more flexible with hiring — including applicants with minor speeding offenses.
FAQ: Trucking Companies That Will Hire With Speeding Tickets
1. Can I still get a CDL job if I have speeding tickets?
Yes, many companies hire drivers with minor or older speeding tickets. The key is how many violations you have and how recent they are.
2. How far back do companies check driving records?
Most companies review the past 3–5 years of your driving history when making hiring decisions.
3. Will a speeding ticket disqualify me from CDL school?
Generally, no. CDL schools typically accept students with minor violations, though serious offenses may require a waiting period.
4. What’s considered a “serious” speeding violation?
Any speed 15 mph or more over the posted limit, especially in a construction or school zone, is classified as serious by FMCSA.
5. Can I get my speeding ticket removed from my record?
Yes, through defensive driving courses or legal assistance, some states allow point reduction or record expungement.
6. How long should I wait before applying again after a major ticket?
Most carriers recommend waiting 12–36 months, depending on the severity of the violation.
Conclusion
Having a few speeding tickets doesn’t mean your trucking career is over. Many trucking companies that will hire with speeding tickets understand that mistakes happen — what matters is showing responsibility and a commitment to safety going forward.
By applying strategically, improving your record, and maintaining honesty throughout the process, you can get back on the road and rebuild your career successfully.
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