As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Light Truck Driver I in the United States is $43,502 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $21.
However, a Light Truck Driver I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
Light Truck Driver I Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $49,958 | $4,163 | $961 | $24 |
| Average | $43,502 | $3,625 | $837 | $21 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,971 | $3,414 | $788 | $20 |
A Light Truck Driver I'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 Light Truck Driver I'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 |
|---|---|---|
| Light Truck Driver I | 0-1 years | $43,502 |
| Light Truck Driver II | 1-3 years | $48,344 |
| Light Truck Driver III | 3-5 years | $55,214 |
Light Truck Driver I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $48,615. While startup companies pay approximate $41,124.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $41,124 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $43,492 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $46,944 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $48,615 |
Understanding how a Light Truck Driver I'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.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $49,958 | $4,163 | $961 | $24 |
| Average | $43,502 | $3,625 | $837 | $21 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,971 | $3,414 | $788 | $20 |
Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Light Truck Driver I, 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 Truck Driver II | $48,314 | 11% |
| Dump Truck Driver I | $60,184 | 38% |
| Heavy Truck Driver II | $53,744 | 24% |
| Light Truck Driver II | $48,344 | 11% |
Salaries for a Light Truck Driver I 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 Light Truck Driver I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 | View More |
| 2023 | $44,693 |
| 2024 | $43,835 |
| 2025 | $43,134 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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A Light Truck Driver I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Light Truck Driver I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Light Truck Driver I is $54,869.
The highest pay for Light Truck Driver I is $55,836.
The lowest pay for Light Truck Driver I is $38,667.
Operates a truck that transports small or light cargo to and from specified locations on time and according to schedule. Operates vehicle safely and responsibly, adhering to all DOT and company safety regulations. Conducts routine inspections prior to departure to ensure the vehicle is in optimal condition. Manages appropriate cargo documentation and provides necessary paperwork upon the delivery of goods. Coordinates the loading and unloading of the truck, verifying cargo and ensuring items are properly stored and secured. Maintains contact with dispatcher to provide status updates, clarify special instructions, and notify about delays or issues during transport. Typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Requires Commercial Driver License (CDL) - Class B. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.
The Pharmaceuticals industry offers the highest average compensation for Light Truck Driver I roles, with salaries approximately 40% above the market median.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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