As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Truck Driver I (CDL-A) in the United States is $48,590 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $23.
However, a Truck Driver I (CDL-A)'s salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Truck Driver I (CDL-A)'s salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Truck Driver I (CDL-A)'s salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Truck Driver I (CDL-A) | 0-1 years | $48,586 |
| Commercial Truck Driver II | 1-3 years | $53,736 |
| Commercial Truck Driver III | 3-5 years | $60,138 |
| Truck Driver IV (CDL-A) | 5-7 years | $66,330 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Truck Driver I (CDL-A)s. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Truck Driver I (CDL-A) salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $54,394. While startup companies pay approximate $46,016.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $46,016 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $48,667 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $52,527 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $54,394 |
For Truck Driver I (CDL-A) roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 47% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 25% above the average. In contrast, Truck Driver I (CDL-A) positions in Transportation or Financial Services typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Truck Driver I (CDL-A) as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | $60,738 | $29.0 | 25% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $59,280 | $28.0 | 22% |
| Energy & Utilities | $58,308 | $28.0 | 20% |
| Internet | $57,336 | $28.0 | 18% |
| Aerospace & Defense | $55,878 | $27.0 | 15% |
Understanding how a Truck Driver I (CDL-A)'s annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Truck Driver I (CDL-A), you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery Driver II | $48,400 | 0% |
| Haul Truck Driver I | $60,200 | 24% |
| Commercial Truck Driver II | $53,740 | 11% |
| Truck Driver II (CDL-B) | $48,390 | 0% |
Salaries for a Truck Driver I (CDL-A) can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $44,693 in 2023 to around $43,134 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Truck Driver I (CDL-A) salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $44,693 |
| 2024 | $43,835 |
| 2025 | $43,134 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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The Biotechnology industry offers the highest average compensation for Truck Driver I (CDL-A) roles, with salaries approximately 25% above the market median.
When deciding between a CDL A or CDL B, it's important to consider your career options. A Class A CDL typically offers the highest wages among truck drivers, with salaries ranging from $46,590 to $59,190. Most graduates with a Class A CDL find opportunities in over-the-road (OTR) trucking, which can lead to lucrative earnings.
While some truck drivers can earn high salaries, the average salary for a CDL-A truck driver ranges from $46,590 to $59,190, with a mid-salary of $52,790. To reach $200,000 a year, a driver would need to consistently haul high-paying loads, which is not typical for most drivers.
The highest-paying truck drivers typically include roles such as oversized load truck drivers, long-haul truck drivers, and ice road drivers. Salaries for these positions can range from a minimum of $46,590 to a mid-range of $52,790, with top earners making up to $59,190 annually, depending on experience and specific job requirements.
Truck drivers are compensated well due to the demanding nature of their job and the long hours they work. For instance, Over-the-Road (OTR) drivers, who travel long distances and spend weeks on the road, can earn between $46,590 and $59,190 annually, with a median salary of $52,790. This pay reflects the challenges and responsibilities associated with the profession.
If you want to drive everything up to and including a semi-truck, a Class A CDL is definitely the best choice for you. Truck drivers with a Class A CDL can expect salaries ranging from $46,590 to $59,190, with a median salary of $52,790. If you prefer to limit your options to Class B vehicles, then a Class B CDL could be the right choice for you.
Truck driving can be a good job in the USA, with salaries ranging from $46,590 to $59,190. The median salary is approximately $52,790, which is competitive compared to many other professions. While it may not match the earnings of high-paying careers like law or medicine, truck driving offers a solid income and job stability.
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