How many hours can part-time CDL drivers legally work?

Under DOT hours-of-service rules, part-time drivers can work up to 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days, but most employers cap hours at 35 per week to avoid triggering the 34-hour restart requirement.

Part Time Truck Drivers Needed: Opportunities Await!

Part-Time Truck Driving Jobs: Who Actually Hires in 2024?

Part-time truck driving jobs provide FMCSA-compliant flexibility, offering competitive hourly rates ranging from $22 to $35 (ATA 2024 Wage Report). Unlike full-time over-the-road (OTR) positions, these roles are ideal for drivers seeking DOT hours-of-service flexibility while maintaining their Class A CDL credentials.

Top 5 Benefits of Part-Time Trucking Jobs

Flexible Scheduling: Work between 20 and 35 hours per week while adhering to Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandates.
Supplemental Income: Earn an additional $800 to $1,200 weekly without the complexity of IFTA filing requirements.
Local Routes: Approximately 85% of part-time opportunities avoid the 34-hour restart rule, according to FMCSA 2023 data.
Variety of Equipment: Operate everything from Class B straight trucks to full tractor-trailers, depending on your preference and qualifications.
Career Advancement: Build a positive CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) score while transitioning from full-time roles or other sectors.

Which Companies Hire Part-Time CDL Drivers Near Me?

Several U.S. carriers actively seek part-time CDL drivers with opportunities tailored to specific regions:

Company	Specialization	State Requirements
Regional Haul Inc.	P&D (Pickup & Delivery) routes	California CARB certification required
Weekend Warriors LLC	Hotshot trucking serving dealerships	Texas oversized permits optional
FreightFlex Solutions	Intermodal container shuttle services	TWIC card mandatory for port access

2024 Industry Insight: Approximately 62% of part-time trucking jobs now include prorated benefits such as health insurance after 90 days, according to the Trucking HR Canada/U.S. Comparative Report.

How to Land Part-Time Trucking Jobs with No Experience?

Entering the part-time CDL job market requires thoughtful preparation and a strategic approach:

5-Step Entry Plan for New Drivers

Earn your Class B CDL for a faster and more cost-effective path compared to Class A licensing.
Complete the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) mandatory Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT).
Seek non-CDL hotshot trucking gigs operating under 26,001 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
Apply for seasonal P&D positions during holiday peak periods to gain valuable experience.
Explore crossover roles in school bus driving or waste management to build driving hours and skills.

What Are the Hidden Costs of Part-Time Truck Driving?

Although often portrayed as “easy money,” part-time trucking entails specific U.S.-based financial considerations that can impact your earnings:

Cost Factor	Part-Time Impact	Smart Solution
CDL Medical Card	$75 to $150 every 2 years	Locate DOT physical clinics offering discounted group rates to reduce expenses.
ELD Compliance	$20 to $50 per month	Prefer companies that provide FMCSA-approved ELD devices at no or reduced cost.
Union Dues	1–3% of wages	Evaluate differences between Teamster-affiliated and non-union shops to find cost-effective options.

FAQs: Part-Time Truck Driver Concerns

Do part-time drivers need drug testing waivers for prescriptions?

Yes. All CDL holders must comply with FMCSA drug and alcohol testing regulations. However, part-time drivers have options such as:

Filing DOT exemption forms for certain prescribed medications.
Utilizing split-duty status during prescribed treatment periods.
Requesting non-DOT alternative testing under specific conditions.

For comprehensive guidance, visit the FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Testing Regulations.

How does IFTA fuel tax work for part-time interstate drivers?

Part-time drivers crossing state lines must adhere to the following:

Track mileage travelled per state, even when working less than 20 hours per week.
File quarterly IFTA returns if their company does not manage fuel tax reporting.
Claim prorated fuel tax credits based on partial-year activity.

More details are available at the International Fuel Tax Association (IFTA) official site.

Which states offer part-time CDL training subsidies?

Top state-sponsored CDL training subsidy programs for 2024 include:

Texas: Workforce Solutions provides reimbursement for 50% of tuition costs.
Ohio: CDL Pathway grants support evening students pursuing certification.
Florida: The FastTrack program offers special incentives for veterans.

Check with your local workforce development board for eligibility and application details.