CDL Driver Salaries

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a CDL Driver make?

The average salary for a CDL Driver is $76,889 per year in the US.

A career as a CDL Driver offers a range of earning potential. On average, CDL Drivers make around $76,889 per year. This salary can vary based on experience and location. Entry-level drivers might start at about $28,960, while those with more experience can earn up to $250,000 annually.

Several factors influence a CDL Driver's salary. The type of cargo, the distance traveled, and the industry can all impact earnings. For example, drivers who transport hazardous materials or work in long-haul trucking may earn more. Additionally, those who work in areas with higher demand for drivers can see better pay. Experience and additional certifications also play a role in salary increases.

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What are the highest paying cities for a CDL Driver?

CDL drivers can find some of the best pay in Brownsville, TX, where salaries reach up to $136,231. Augusta, GA, and Miami, FL, follow closely with salaries around $107,000 and $104,000, respectively. These cities offer competitive wages, making them attractive options for those in the industry.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for CDL Driver jobs, highlighting Brownsville, TX with the highest at $136,231 and Gainesville, FL with the lowest at $96,347.
  1. Brownsville, TX
    Average Salary: $136,231
    In Brownsville, drivers enjoy a mix of urban and rural routes. Companies like Walmart and FedEx offer many opportunities. The warm climate makes for pleasant driving conditions.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Brownsville, TX


  2. Augusta, GA
    Average Salary: $107,774
    Augusta provides a variety of routes with companies such as Home Depot and UPS. The city's historic charm adds to the driving experience. The moderate climate is ideal for year-round driving.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Augusta, GA


  3. Miami, FL
    Average Salary: $104,606
    Miami offers dynamic routes with major companies like Amazon and DHL. The vibrant city life and beautiful beaches make commuting enjoyable. The tropical climate brings warm weather all year.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Miami, FL


  4. Lubbock, TX
    Average Salary: $103,594
    Lubbock features open plains and flat routes. Companies like Sysco and Schneider offer many job openings. The city's friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to work and live.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Lubbock, TX


  5. Tampa, FL
    Average Salary: $100,773
    Tampa provides diverse routes with employers like Coca-Cola and Ryder. The city's coastal location offers beautiful views and a pleasant climate. Many attractions are nearby for leisure time.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Tampa, FL


  6. Lexington, KY
    Average Salary: $99,374
    Lexington offers a mix of urban and rural routes. Companies such as UPS and Werner Enterprises provide many job opportunities. The city's rich history and horse farms add to the charm.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Lexington, KY


  7. Lakeland, FL
    Average Salary: $98,583
    Lakeland features a variety of routes with companies like Walmart and FedEx. The city's warm climate and natural beauty make for a pleasant work environment. Many outdoor activities are available nearby.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Lakeland, FL


  8. Fort Myers, FL
    Average Salary: $97,690
    Fort Myers offers scenic routes with companies like Amazon and C.R. England. The city's warm weather and beautiful beaches make commuting enjoyable. Many recreational activities are available for leisure time.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Fort Myers, FL


  9. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $97,508
    Washington, DC, provides diverse routes with major companies like FedEx and UPS. The city's rich history and cultural attractions make for an interesting work environment. The bustling city life offers many opportunities.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Washington, DC


  10. Gainesville, FL
    Average Salary: $96,347
    Gainesville offers a variety of routes with companies like Coca-Cola and J.B. Hunt. The city's vibrant college atmosphere and natural parks make for a lively work environment. The warm climate is ideal for year-round driving.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Gainesville, FL

What are the best companies a CDL Driver can work for?

Zero Max Inc offers one of the highest salaries for CDL Driver jobs, reaching up to $650,000. Evans Delivery Company and Page Transportation & Page E.T.C. also provide competitive salaries, with earnings up to $416,000 and $312,000, respectively. These companies value their drivers and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for CDL Driver jobs, highlighting Zero Max Inc with the highest at $650,000 and PAM Transport with the lowest at $155,128.
  1. Zero Max Inc
    Average Salary: $650,000
    Zero Max Inc offers CDL Driver jobs with competitive salaries. They operate in various locations across the country, providing opportunities for drivers to travel and gain experience.


  2. Evans Delivery Company
    Average Salary: $416,000
    Evans Delivery Company provides CDL Driver positions with a solid average salary. They serve multiple regions, ensuring drivers have diverse routes and experiences.


  3. Page Transportation & Page E.T.C.
    Average Salary: $312,000
    Page Transportation & Page E.T.C. offer CDL Driver jobs with a good average salary. They operate in several states, giving drivers the chance to explore different areas.


  4. Avior LLC
    Average Salary: $300,000
    Avior LLC provides CDL Driver jobs with a strong average salary. They have a presence in many locations, offering drivers a variety of routes.


  5. West Motor Freight
    Average Salary: $234,000
    West Motor Freight offers CDL Driver positions with a respectable average salary. They operate in various regions, providing drivers with diverse driving experiences.


  6. Empower formerly Niagara Cerebral Palsy
    Average Salary: $204,998
    Empower formerly Niagara Cerebral Palsy provides CDL Driver jobs with a good average salary. They serve multiple locations, offering drivers a chance to travel and gain experience.


  7. CLS
    Average Salary: $193,077
    CLS offers CDL Driver positions with a solid average salary. They operate in various regions, providing drivers with diverse routes and experiences.


  8. P&S Transportation
    Average Salary: $166,442
    P&S Transportation provides CDL Driver jobs with a good average salary. They serve multiple locations, offering drivers a chance to explore different areas.


  9. Tennessee Steel Haulers
    Average Salary: $156,000
    Tennessee Steel Haulers offers CDL Driver positions with a decent average salary. They operate in several states, giving drivers the chance to travel and gain experience.


  10. PAM Transport
    Average Salary: $155,128
    PAM Transport provides CDL Driver jobs with a good average salary. They serve multiple locations, offering drivers a chance to explore different areas.

How to earn more as a CDL Driver?

Becoming a CDL driver opens many doors to earning a good income. CDL drivers have the opportunity to earn more by taking certain steps. These steps can lead to higher earnings and more job satisfaction. Focusing on the right areas can make a big difference in a driver's career.

Here are some key factors to consider for earning more as a CDL driver:

  1. Gain Experience: More experience often leads to higher pay. Experienced drivers can take on more complex routes and handle difficult situations better.
  2. Get Specialized Training: Specializing in areas like hazardous materials or passenger transport can lead to higher-paying jobs. This training can open up more opportunities and higher wages.
  3. Maintain a Clean Record: Keeping a clean driving record is important. Fewer accidents and violations mean better job security and higher pay.
  4. Work for the Right Company: Some companies offer better pay and benefits. Researching and choosing a company that values its drivers can lead to higher earnings.
  5. Network with Other Drivers: Talking with other drivers can provide tips and lead to better job opportunities. Networking can help find higher-paying jobs and improve career prospects.

Currently 15,542 CDL Driver job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a CDL Driver in the US?

Learn what a CDL Driver does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a CDL Driver today.
Position
Overview
CDL Driver
15,542 Job Openings