What PepsiCo CDL jobs are and where to find them

PepsiCo hires commercial drivers to deliver beverages and snacks to stores, restaurants, and distribution centers across the country. These positions require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) — the same license required for any job driving a truck over 26,001 pounds. PepsiCo's driver roles include route delivery, where you stock shelves and collect payment, and dedicated truck driving between facilities.

PepsiCo posts CDL openings on its main careers website (pepsico.com/careers), on job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn, and through local PepsiCo bottling plants and distribution centers. Many positions are filled through referrals from current employees, so asking someone who works there can sometimes lead to faster hiring. Specific openings vary by region and season — beverage delivery typically ramps up in warmer months.

Pay and benefits differ by location and role. Most PepsiCo CDL drivers earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, with health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Some positions offer sign-on bonuses or tuition reimbursement for CDL training. You should contact the specific location or recruiter to learn what they offer.

Key Takeaways

  • PepsiCo CDL jobs require a valid Commercial Driver's License before you explore, which you must obtain from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.
  • Most PepsiCo driver roles involve delivering products to retail locations and managing customer relationships, not just long-haul trucking.
  • You can find openings through PepsiCo's careers website, job boards, or by contacting your nearest PepsiCo distribution center directly.
  • A CDL requires passing a written knowledge test, a skills test, and a medical examination — the process typically takes several weeks to a few months depending on your state.

What you need before explore to PepsiCo CDL positions

You must have a valid CDL in your state before you submit an process. PepsiCo will not hire you without one, and you cannot obtain a CDL while employed — you must complete training and testing on your own time first. Some employers offer to reimburse CDL training costs after you are hired, but the license itself must be in hand when you interview.

Beyond the CDL, PepsiCo requires a clean driving record. Most positions ask for a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check, which shows traffic violations, accidents, and suspensions. Serious violations like DUIs, reckless driving, or multiple at-fault accidents can disqualify you. You should request your own MVR from your state's DMV before explore so you know what PepsiCo will see.

You will also need a valid passport or state ID, proof of Social Security number, and the ability to pass a background check and drug screening. Some roles require a DOT medical certificate, which you obtain from a certified medical examiner — this is separate from your CDL medical exam but often happens at the same time.

How to get a CDL if you don't have one yet

Getting a CDL involves three main steps: obtaining a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP), completing training, and passing the CDL test. The timeline varies by state but typically takes 4 to 12 weeks.

Step 1: Get your CLP. Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles and pass a written knowledge test covering commercial driving rules, vehicle inspection, and safety. You pay a fee (usually $10 to $50) and receive a permit that lets you practice driving a commercial truck with a licensed trainer. You must hold the CLP for a minimum of 14 days before you can test for the full CDL.

Step 2: Complete training. You can train through a CDL school, a trucking company's training program, or an experienced driver. CDL schools typically cost $3,000 to $7,000 and take 3 to 7 weeks. Some trucking companies, including some PepsiCo bottling plants, offer paid training programs where you learn while working — ask when you contact them. Training covers vehicle operation, cargo handling, safety procedures, and hours-of-service rules.

Step 3: Pass the CDL test. You return to the DMV for a skills test, which includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a backing and maneuvering course, and a road test. You must pass all three parts. Once you pass, you receive your CDL card, which is valid for 4 to 8 years depending on your state.

Types of CDL endorsements PepsiCo may require

A basic CDL lets you drive most commercial trucks, but certain jobs require endorsements — additional qualifications added to your license. PepsiCo positions may require one or more of these.

The Tanker (T) endorsement is common for beverage delivery because you are hauling liquid in large tanks. You pass an additional written test covering tank vehicle safety, weight distribution, and emergency procedures. The Hazmat (H) endorsement is required if you transport hazardous materials — some cleaning products and certain beverages fall under this category. Hazmat requires a background check and a written test. The Passenger (P) endorsement is less common at PepsiCo but may be needed if you drive company shuttles or employee transport.

Ask the specific PepsiCo location or recruiter which endorsements their position requires before you test. Getting the wrong endorsement wastes time and money. Most states let you add endorsements after you have your base CDL, so you can get your CDL first and add endorsements later if needed.

What PepsiCo looks for in CDL driver candidates

Beyond the license itself, PepsiCo evaluates your driving history, work history, and customer service skills. A clean driving record — no major violations in the past 3 to 5 years — is essential. Minor speeding tickets or parking violations usually do not disqualify you, but accidents, DUIs, reckless driving, or license suspensions are serious red flags.

PepsiCo also looks at your employment history. Frequent job changes, gaps in work, or terminations for misconduct can raise concerns. Stable employment and good references from previous employers strengthen your process. For route delivery positions especially, PepsiCo values customer service experience — if you have worked in retail, food service, or sales, mention it.

Physical ability matters too. Route delivery drivers lift cases of beverages (often 30 to 50 pounds each), climb in and out of trucks, and work in varying weather. You should be comfortable with physical labor. PepsiCo will assess this during interviews and the DOT medical exam.

The process and hiring timeline at PepsiCo

Once you have your CDL, the hiring process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks from process to job offer. You submit your process online or in person at a local distribution center. PepsiCo reviews your driving record, background, and work history. If you pass that stage, you interview with a hiring manager — usually a brief conversation about your experience and why you want the job.

After the interview, you undergo a background check and drug screening. These take 1 to 2 weeks. If you pass, PepsiCo schedules a DOT medical exam with a certified examiner. You pay for this exam (typically $100 to $200), though some locations reimburse it. Once you pass the medical exam and background check, you receive a job offer and a start date.

Some PepsiCo locations hire faster if they have urgent staffing needs, especially during peak seasons. Others may have a waiting list. Contacting the distribution center directly and expressing interest can sometimes move you ahead in the queue.

Alternatives if you cannot get a CDL or PepsiCo does not hire you

If you are unable to obtain a CDL — due to medical issues, age restrictions, or other barriers — PepsiCo and similar companies hire non-CDL positions like warehouse workers, merchandisers, and customer service representatives. These roles do not require a commercial license and often pay $18 to $25 per hour.

If PepsiCo does not have openings in your area, other beverage and snack distributors hire CDL drivers, including Coca-Cola, Monster Energy, local bottling plants, and independent distribution companies. The hiring process and requirements are similar. You can also explore long-haul trucking, local delivery for other companies, or specialized roles like tanker driving for fuel or chemical companies — all use the same CDL.

Some states offer CDL training through community colleges or workforce development programs at reduced cost or free, especially if you are unemployed or underemployed. Contact your state's Department of Labor or a local workforce center to learn what programs exist in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a CDL to explore for a PepsiCo driver job?

Yes. PepsiCo requires a valid CDL before you explore. You cannot obtain the license after being hired — you must complete training and pass the test on your own time first. Some PepsiCo locations offer to reimburse training costs after you are hired, but the license must be in hand when you interview.

How long does it take to get a CDL?

The timeline varies by state and training method. Getting a Commercial Learner's Permit takes a few days. CDL school training takes 3 to 7 weeks. You must hold the permit for at least 14 days before testing. The full process typically takes 4 to 12 weeks from start to finish.

What if I have a traffic violation or accident on my record?

Minor violations like speeding tickets usually do not disqualify you if they are old and isolated. Major violations like DUIs, reckless driving, or multiple at-fault accidents within the past 3 to 5 years are serious obstacles. Request your Motor Vehicle Record from your state's DMV to see what PepsiCo will see, then ask the recruiter directly whether your record is acceptable.

Can I get a CDL if I am under 21?

You can obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit at 18 in most states, but federal law restricts interstate commercial driving to drivers 21 and older. PepsiCo positions that cross state lines require you to be 21. Intrastate delivery jobs may be available at 18 — ask your local PepsiCo location.

What endorsements do I need for a PepsiCo delivery job?

Most PepsiCo beverage delivery positions require the Tanker (T) endorsement because you are hauling liquid. Some roles may require the Hazmat (H) endorsement if you transport certain products. Ask the specific location or recruiter which endorsements their position requires before you test.