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Introduction
California is one of the most populous states in the US, and it also has one of the largest economies. The state is home to many industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation. If you’re considering a career as a commercial driver in California, you may be wondering how much you can expect to earn. In this article, we’ll explore the average CDL salary in California and factors that can affect your earnings.
What is a CDL?
A CDL, or commercial driver’s license, is a special license that allows you to operate large vehicles such as tractor-trailers, buses, and tow trucks. To obtain a CDL in California, you must pass a written knowledge test and a skills test. You must also meet certain medical and physical requirements.
CDL Salary in California
The average CDL salary in California is $51,000 per year, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, this number can vary widely based on several factors, including your level of experience, the type of vehicle you’re driving, and the industry you’re working in.
Factors that Affect CDL Salary
Here are some factors that can affect your CDL salary in California:
- Experience: Generally, the more experience you have as a commercial driver, the higher your salary will be. According to PayScale, the average salary for a CDL driver with less than a year of experience is $16.68 per hour, while the average salary for a CDL driver with 20 or more years of experience is $23.89 per hour.
- Vehicle type: The type of vehicle you’re driving can also impact your earnings. For example, bus drivers in California earn an average of $42,000 per year, while heavy truck drivers earn an average of $56,000 per year.
- Industry: The industry you work in can also affect your salary. For example, CDL drivers who work for the government tend to earn higher salaries than those who work in the private sector.
Top-Paying Industries for CDL Drivers in California
Here are some of the top-paying industries for CDL drivers in California:
- Postal service: CDL drivers who work for the US Postal Service earn an average of $64,000 per year.
- Local government: CDL drivers who work for local government agencies earn an average of $59,000 per year.
- State government: CDL drivers who work for state government agencies earn an average of $57,000 per year.
CDL Training Programs in California
If you’re interested in becoming a commercial driver in California, you’ll need to complete a CDL training program. There are many schools and training programs throughout the state that offer CDL training. Some of the most popular programs include:
- California Truck Driving Academy: This program offers a 160-hour CDL training course that covers all aspects of commercial driving.
- United Truck Driving School: This program offers a 160-hour CDL training course that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
- Western Truck School: This program offers a 160-hour CDL training course that covers all aspects of commercial driving, including safety and regulations.
Conclusion
If you’re considering a career as a commercial driver in California, there are many factors to consider when it comes to your potential earnings. However, with the right training and experience, you can earn a good salary as a CDL driver in the Golden State.