A poor driving history can feel like a dead end when you’re trying to start or return to a trucking career. Many drivers believe that once their record has tickets, accidents, or violations, trucking companies won’t even look at their application.
The good news: Trucking Jobs With Bad Driving Record absolutely exist — if you know where to apply, what companies check, and how to present yourself correctly.
This guide shows you who hires, what violations matter most, and step-by-step actions you can take to get back behind the wheel legally and confidently.
What Do Trucking Companies Consider a “Bad Driving Record”?
Not all violations are treated equally. Carriers evaluate your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) and PSP (Pre-Employment Screening Program) report.
Read too: Top Trucking Companies That Still Have Manual Transmissions
Here’s how most companies categorize violations:
| Violation Type | Severity | Hiring Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding (under 15 mph over) | Low | Often acceptable |
| Speeding (15+ mph over) | Medium | May delay hiring |
| At-fault accident | Medium | Case by case |
| Reckless driving | High | Difficult but possible |
| DUI/DWI (over 3–5 years ago) | High | Some second-chance carriers |
| License suspension | High | Must be fully resolved |
| Cell phone violation (CMV) | Medium | Increasingly strict |
Many carriers focus on the last 3 years more than older history.
Learn how driver records are tracked:
👉 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Commercial_driver%27s_license
Why Some Companies Still Hire Drivers With Violations
The trucking industry faces a driver shortage. According to industry estimates, tens of thousands of seats go unfilled each year. Because of this:
- Some carriers operate second-chance programs
- Smaller fleets are more flexible than mega carriers
- Insurance rules matter more than company policy
If you meet the insurer’s minimum requirements, you can often get hired.
Violations That Are Hardest to Overcome
Be realistic. These issues make hiring very difficult:
- DUI/DWI within last 3 years
- Hit and run
- Felony involving a vehicle
- Multiple reckless driving charges
- Active license suspension
Everything else is usually negotiable with the right approach.
Best Types of Trucking Jobs to Apply For
Certain job types are more open to drivers with imperfect records.
| Job Type | Hiring Flexibility | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Local delivery | High | Short routes, lower insurance risk |
| Yard jockey / yard hostler | Very High | No public road driving |
| Dump truck / construction | High | Non-highway work |
| Agricultural hauling | Medium | Seasonal demand |
| Small family fleets | High | Owner discretion |
| Training fleets | Medium | Structured programs |
Avoid hazmat, tanker, or passenger endorsements at first — they have stricter standards.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply With a Bad Driving Record
1. Get Your MVR Before Applying
Know exactly what the company will see. This prevents surprises.
2. Write a Short Explanation
Be honest. One paragraph explaining what happened and what changed.
3. Apply to Smaller Carriers First
They care more about attitude and reliability than a perfect record.
4. Offer to Start in Yard or Local Role
This builds trust and lets you prove yourself.
5. Highlight Clean Time
If you’ve had 12–24 months violation-free, emphasize this.
What Recruiters Want to Hear
Recruiters are trained to spot risk. You reduce that risk by saying:
- “I’ve been violation-free for X months”
- “I completed defensive driving training”
- “I understand safety is my top priority now”
This language matters more than you think.
How Long Violations Stay Relevant
| Violation | Company Concern Period |
|---|---|
| Minor speeding | 12–24 months |
| Accident | 3 years |
| Reckless driving | 3–5 years |
| DUI | 5–7 years |
Time is your biggest ally.
Actions That Improve Your Chances Immediately
- Take a defensive driving course (online, 4–6 hours)
- Get letters of recommendation from past employers
- Keep a clean record from today forward
- Be flexible on routes and schedules
These steps show responsibility and growth.
Realistic Salary Expectations
Drivers with records may start slightly lower but can recover quickly.
| Experience | Starting Pay |
|---|---|
| Yard / local | $18–$24/hr |
| Regional | $0.45–$0.55 per mile |
| OTR after 1 year clean | $0.60+ per mile |
Within 12–18 months, pay differences often disappear.
Companies Known for Second-Chance Hiring (General Types)
Rather than specific names, look for:
- “Second chance trucking companies”
- “CDL jobs no experience no record perfect”
- “Yard hostler positions”
- “Local box truck positions”
These listings are common on job boards.
Mistakes That Get Applications Rejected
- Lying about violations
- Applying for hazmat/tanker immediately
- Not knowing what’s on your MVR
- Being defensive in interviews
Honesty plus responsibility works far better.
Can You Remove Violations From Your Record?
Sometimes:
- Traffic school may remove points
- Lawyers can reduce reckless charges
- Old tickets may expire from MVR
Check with your DMV for options.
FAQ – Common Questions
Can I get a trucking job with 2 speeding tickets?
Yes. Very common and usually acceptable.
What if I had an at-fault accident?
If over a year ago, many companies will consider you.
Is DUI a career ender?
No, but you may need 3–5 clean years first.
Should I mention my violations before they ask?
Yes. Transparency builds trust.
Are owner-operators more flexible?
Yes, especially small fleets.
Does time really help?
Absolutely. Clean time is the strongest factor.
Conclusion
Having violations on your record does not end your trucking career. There are many Trucking Jobs With Bad Driving Record available if you apply strategically, stay honest, and show clear improvement.
Focus on small carriers, local roles, and keeping your record clean from today forward. Within a year or two, most of the barriers disappear.
If this guide helped you, share it on social media to help other drivers get a second chance on the road.
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