CDL Driver Salaries

Updated on May 09, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a CDL Driver make?

The average salary for a CDL Driver is $80,181 per year in the US.

A career as a CDL Driver offers a range of earning potentials. The average salary for a CDL Driver is around $80,181 per year. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of goods being transported. Drivers with more experience and specialized skills often earn higher salaries.

Here are some key points about CDL Driver salaries:

  • Entry-level drivers can expect to earn around $28,500 per year.
  • Experienced drivers can earn upwards of $184,409 per year.
  • The highest earners in the field can make over $200,000 annually.

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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 $128,926. Augusta, GA, and Miami, FL, follow closely with salaries around $108,239 and $102,580, 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 $128,926 and Omaha, NE with the lowest at $96,431.
  1. Brownsville, TX
    Average Salary: $128,926
    In Brownsville, driving a commercial vehicle offers a chance to explore the vibrant local culture. Companies like Rio Grande Valley Freight Lines provide excellent opportunities. The city's growing economy and port activities make it a dynamic place for drivers.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Brownsville, TX


  2. Augusta, GA
    Average Salary: $108,239
    Augusta presents a mix of urban and rural routes for drivers. With prominent employers like Augusta Logistics, the job offers stability and good pay. The city's rich history and scenic beauty add to the driving experience.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Augusta, GA


  3. Miami, FL
    Average Salary: $102,580
    Miami's bustling streets and diverse routes make for an exciting driving experience. Companies like Miami Express Transport are known for their reliable services. The city's vibrant atmosphere and warm climate enhance the job.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Miami, FL


  4. Lubbock, TX
    Average Salary: $100,946
    Lubbock offers a mix of open roads and city driving. With companies like Texas Panhandle Carriers, drivers enjoy good pay and benefits. The city's friendly community and wide-open spaces provide a pleasant work environment.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Lubbock, TX


  5. Tampa, FL
    Average Salary: $100,179
    Tampa's coastal location offers unique driving experiences. Employers like Tampa Bay Transport provide excellent career opportunities. The city's beautiful beaches and lively culture make it an attractive place to work.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Tampa, FL


  6. Lexington, KY
    Average Salary: $99,679
    Lexington provides a mix of city and rural driving. Companies like Bluegrass Transport offer stable employment. The city's rich horse racing heritage and charming downtown area add to the job's appeal.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Lexington, KY


  7. Fort Myers, FL
    Average Salary: $98,336
    Fort Myers offers scenic drives along the coast. Employers like Southwest Florida Carriers provide good opportunities. The city's warm climate and beautiful beaches make it a desirable place to work.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Fort Myers, FL


  8. Lakeland, FL
    Average Salary: $97,798
    Lakeland's diverse routes and pleasant weather make it a great place for drivers. Companies like Central Florida Logistics offer excellent benefits. The city's friendly community and natural beauty enhance the job experience.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Lakeland, FL


  9. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $97,327
    Driving in Washington, DC, offers a mix of city and suburban routes. Employers like Capital City Transport provide good opportunities. The city's rich history and cultural attractions make it an exciting place to work.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Washington, DC


  10. Omaha, NE
    Average Salary: $96,431
    Omaha provides a mix of urban and rural driving. Companies like Nebraska Express offer stable employment. The city's friendly community and vibrant arts scene make it a pleasant place to work.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Omaha, NE

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

Zero Max Inc offers some of the highest salaries for CDL drivers, with an average of $650,000. Evans Delivery Company and Page Transportation & Page E.T.C. also provide competitive pay, with averages around $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 Tennessee Steel Haulers with the lowest at $156,000.
  1. Zero Max Inc
    Average Salary: $650,000
    Zero Max Inc offers CDL Driver jobs with a strong focus on safety and efficiency. They operate across multiple states, including California, Texas, and Florida. Drivers enjoy competitive pay and benefits.


  2. Evans Delivery Company
    Average Salary: $416,000
    Evans Delivery Company provides CDL Driver positions with a commitment to quality service. They serve areas in the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. Drivers benefit from a supportive work environment and regular training.


  3. Page Transportation & Page E.T.C.
    Average Salary: $312,000
    Page Transportation & Page E.T.C. offer CDL Driver jobs with a focus on customer satisfaction. They operate in the Northeast, covering states like New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Drivers receive excellent benefits and opportunities for career growth.


  4. Avior LLC
    Average Salary: $300,000
    Avior LLC provides CDL Driver jobs with a strong emphasis on teamwork and reliability. They serve the Southeast, including Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Drivers enjoy a positive work culture and competitive pay.


  5. West Motor Freight
    Average Salary: $234,000
    West Motor Freight offers CDL Driver jobs with a focus on safety and efficiency. They operate in the Midwest, covering states like Ohio, Missouri, and Kansas. Drivers benefit from a supportive team and regular training.


  6. P&S Transportation
    Average Salary: $228,227
    P&S Transportation provides CDL Driver positions with a commitment to quality service. They serve the West Coast, including California, Oregon, and Washington. Drivers enjoy a supportive work environment and regular training.


  7. Empower formerly Niagara Cerebral Palsy
    Average Salary: $198,435
    Empower formerly Niagara Cerebral Palsy offers CDL Driver jobs with a focus on inclusivity and support. They operate in the Northeast, covering states like New York and Pennsylvania. Drivers benefit from a positive work culture and excellent benefits.


  8. CLS
    Average Salary: $193,077
    CLS provides CDL Driver positions with a commitment to quality service. They serve the Southeast, including Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia. Drivers enjoy a supportive work environment and regular training.


  9. PAM Transport
    Average Salary: $165,419
    PAM Transport offers CDL Driver jobs with a focus on safety and efficiency. They operate in the Midwest, covering states like Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. Drivers benefit from a supportive team and regular training.


  10. Tennessee Steel Haulers
    Average Salary: $156,000
    Tennessee Steel Haulers provides CDL Driver positions with a commitment to quality service. They serve the Southeast, including Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia. Drivers enjoy a positive work culture and competitive pay.

How to earn more as a CDL Driver?

Becoming a CDL driver opens many doors for earning a good income. CDL drivers have many opportunities to increase their earnings. Focusing on the right areas can lead to higher pay. This article explores key factors that can help CDL drivers earn more.

First, gaining experience is crucial. Experienced drivers often earn more than those just starting. Companies value drivers who understand the job well. Second, specialization can increase earnings. Drivers who specialize in areas like hazardous materials or oversized loads often get paid more. Third, maintaining a clean driving record helps. Fewer accidents and violations mean higher pay. Fourth, working for the right company matters. Some companies offer better pay and benefits. Finally, continuing education can lead to higher-paying jobs. Certifications and advanced training can open doors to better opportunities.

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

  1. Gain experience to increase your value.
  2. Specialize in areas that offer higher pay.
  3. Keep a clean driving record to avoid pay cuts.
  4. Choose companies that offer competitive pay.
  5. Pursue continuing education and certifications.

Currently 12,045 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
12,045 Job Openings