Where commercial driving jobs are posted in New Jersey

Commercial driving jobs in New Jersey are listed on the same job boards as other work, but you will have better results searching specifically for "CDL driver" or "commercial driver" rather than just "driver." The largest general sites—Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter—all have filters for location and job type, and you can set alerts so new postings arrive by email.

Trucking companies and logistics firms also post directly on their own websites. Major carriers operating in New Jersey include Werner Enterprises, Schneider National, and Heartland Express, each with a careers page where you can search by state. Local and regional carriers—smaller operations that handle regional hauls rather than cross-country routes—often post on Craigslist or their Facebook pages, so searching "CDL jobs near me" on Facebook can surface opportunities you would not find elsewhere.

Staffing agencies that specialize in transportation and logistics can also match you with openings. These agencies work directly with employers and sometimes know about positions before they are posted publicly. A search for "transportation staffing agency New Jersey" will show which ones operate in your area.

Key Takeaways

  • Job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn let you filter by location and job type, but searching "CDL driver New Jersey" will return more relevant results than a generic driver search.
  • Trucking companies and logistics firms post openings on their own career pages, and regional carriers often use Facebook or Craigslist instead of major job sites.
  • Your CDL class (Class A, B, or C) and any endorsements you hold (hazmat, tanker, passenger) determine which jobs you can legally perform.
  • Most commercial driving positions require a clean driving record and a medical certificate from a Department of Transportation–approved examiner, separate from your CDL itself.
  • Starting pay for entry-level CDL drivers in New Jersey ranges widely depending on the carrier and route type, but local and regional routes typically pay less than long-haul work.

What your CDL class and endorsements mean for job options

Your CDL class determines the size and type of vehicle you can legally operate. A Class A CDL lets you drive any combination of vehicles with a total weight of 26,001 pounds or more—this covers most tractor-trailers and is the most common for long-haul trucking. A Class B CDL covers single vehicles weighing 26,001 pounds or more but not combinations, which includes dump trucks, concrete mixers, and some delivery trucks. A Class C CDL is for vehicles under 26,001 pounds and is less common in commercial trucking jobs.

An endorsement is an additional qualification that lets you haul specific cargo or passenger types. The most common endorsements are Hazmat (hazardous materials), Tanker (liquids in bulk), and Passenger (buses or vans). Some jobs require them—a position hauling gasoline requires a Hazmat endorsement, for example—while others do not. When you search for jobs, the posting will state which endorsements are required or preferred. If you do not have them yet, you can add them by passing the written test and skills test for that endorsement at the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission.

Entry-level positions often do not require endorsements, so if you hold only a basic Class A CDL, you can still find work with local delivery companies, waste management, or smaller carriers. Endorsements typically increase your pay and open doors to higher-paying routes, so adding them over time is a common career path.

Medical certification and background requirements employers check

Before you start any commercial driving job, your employer will require a Department of Transportation medical certificate. This is not part of your CDL—it is a separate document issued by a DOT-certified medical examiner after a physical exam. The exam checks your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall fitness to drive. You can find DOT-certified examiners through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's National Registry website, or ask your employer for a list of approved providers.

Your employer will also run a background check that includes your driving record, criminal history, and previous employment. New Jersey's Motor Vehicle Commission maintains your driving record, which shows all violations, accidents, and suspensions. A clean record is essential—most carriers will not hire drivers with recent serious violations like DUI, reckless driving, or multiple at-fault accidents. Some carriers have stricter standards than others, so if you have a blemish on your record, smaller or local carriers may be more willing to consider you than national fleets.

You will also need to provide proof of your Social Security number, a valid passport or state ID, and proof of New Jersey residency if you are explore for a job based here. Bring these documents to your first day of work.

Types of commercial driving work available in New Jersey

Long-haul trucking involves driving across multiple states, often sleeping in the truck for days at a time. These routes typically pay more per mile but require time away from home. Most long-haul positions are with national carriers and require a Class A CDL with a clean record.

Regional driving covers a multi-state area but usually allows you to return home daily or several times a week. Pay is lower than long-haul but higher than local work, and the schedule is more predictable. Many drivers prefer regional work for this reason.

Local delivery includes routes within New Jersey or nearby areas, with the driver returning home each night. This covers everything from package delivery to fuel delivery to waste collection. Pay is typically lower than regional or long-haul work, but the schedule is stable and you sleep in your own bed. Local jobs are often easier to find as an entry-level driver.

Specialized hauling—tankers, flatbeds, refrigerated trailers—pays more because it requires specific skills and endorsements. These jobs are less common but offer higher wages if you have the qualifications.

How to prepare your process materials

Before you explore, gather your CDL, medical certificate, and a list of your previous employers with dates and contact information. Most applications ask for your driving history, so have your New Jersey driving record on hand. You can order it online through the Motor Vehicle Commission website or in person at any MVC office.

Write a short summary of your driving experience, including how many years you have held a CDL, what types of vehicles you have driven, and any endorsements you hold. If you are new to commercial driving, mention any relevant experience—delivery driving, operating heavy equipment, or safety training—even if it was not in a commercial truck.

When you explore online, fill out every field completely and double-check for spelling and date errors. Many applications are screened automatically, and missing information can disqualify you. If you explore in person or by phone, ask when you should expect to hear back and whether there are any documents you should bring to an interview.

What to expect in the hiring process

After you submit your process, most carriers take one to two weeks to review it and contact you. If they are interested, they will call or email to schedule a phone or in-person interview. Be ready to discuss your driving history, why you want the job, and your availability to start.

If you pass the interview, the carrier will run a background check and contact your previous employers. This step typically takes another one to two weeks. Once the background check clears, you may be asked to take a road test—the carrier will have you drive one of their trucks on a set route while a trainer observes. This is not a formal skills test like your CDL exam; it is a chance for the carrier to see how you handle their equipment and follow their safety rules.

After the road test, you will receive an offer or a rejection. If you receive an offer, you will complete paperwork, provide proof of your medical certificate, and schedule your start date. Some carriers offer paid training for new drivers, while others expect you to be ready to work independently from day one.

Pay ranges and what affects your earnings

Pay for CDL drivers in New Jersey varies widely based on the type of work, the carrier, and your experience. Entry-level local delivery drivers may start at $40,000 to $50,000 per year, while experienced long-haul drivers can earn $60,000 to $80,000 or more. Regional drivers typically fall in the middle. These figures are not fixed—they depend on whether you are paid by the mile, by the hour, or by the load, and whether you work for a large national carrier or a smaller local company.

Your pay can increase with experience, additional endorsements, and a clean driving record. Some carriers offer bonuses for safe driving, on-time delivery, or staying with the company for a set period. Overtime is common in trucking, and many drivers earn extra by working nights or weekends.

Benefits vary by employer. Some carriers offer health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, while others offer minimal benefits. Ask about benefits during the interview so you understand the full compensation package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a CDL to drive a delivery truck for a package company?

It depends on the truck's weight. If the vehicle weighs more than 26,001 pounds, you need a CDL. Many package delivery trucks fall below this threshold, so you may not need one. The job posting will state whether a CDL is required. If you are unsure, contact the company directly.

Can I work as a CDL driver if I have a DUI on my record?

A DUI will disqualify you from most national carriers and many regional companies. Some smaller local carriers may consider you if the DUI is old and you can show a pattern of safe driving since then. Your best option is to contact carriers directly and ask about their hiring policy for drivers with DUI history.

How long does it take to get hired after I explore?

The timeline varies, but most carriers take two to four weeks from process to job offer, assuming your background check clears without issues. Some smaller carriers move faster, while large national fleets may take longer. Ask the hiring manager for an expected timeline when they contact you.

What is the difference between being paid by the mile and being paid by the hour?

Mile-based pay means you earn a set amount per mile driven, which rewards efficiency and long routes. Hourly pay means you earn a set wage regardless of distance, which is more predictable but may pay less if you drive slowly or encounter delays. Long-haul and regional drivers are usually paid by the mile; local delivery drivers are often paid hourly.

Do I need to live in New Jersey to work as a CDL driver there?

No. You need a New Jersey CDL to drive commercially in the state, but you can obtain one even if you live out of state. However, most employers prefer to hire drivers who live locally or nearby to reduce commute time and may support reliability. If you live out of state, mention your willingness to relocate or your plan for commuting during the interview.