Drivers are in currently in high demand across many industries, and if you’re highly-skilled behind the wheel, now is a good time to consider a career in the field. According to the American Journal of Transportation, more than 80,000 drivers are needed to fill a shortage gap in America alone.

According to the American Trucking Associations, this shortage is projected to persist and could reach 160,000 drivers by 2030. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 214,500 openings for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers are projected each year over the decade, many of them from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. The options are many, from truck driving and company drivers to delivery services. Understandably, the only problem for most people is job experience, but the following tips can help you land your dream driving job with no experience.

1. Where Should I Start Applying For Driving Jobs With No Experience?

Additionally, you probably have a few driving opportunities you’re interested in. The only way you can get them is if you apply, regardless of your experience (or lack of).

Of course, experience will matter in many cases, as companies want drivers who know how to negotiate the road. So, you can apply for opportunities or avenues that allow first-time drivers to gain valuable work experience. Starting this way is one of the simplest ways of how to avoid common career mistakes like overestimating what a first job needs to look like.

Another option is to obtain a driver’s license and look for entry-level opportunities like courier and delivery driving jobs. These can help you build the experience you need to apply for more advanced driving opportunities like truck driving.

2. How Can I Hone My Driving Skills For a New Job?

It’s important to master your driving skills to increase your chances of getting a job, especially when it comes to advanced driving opportunities. Start by getting the necessary commercial driving license.

Next, take the time to master how to drive in various weather conditions and terrains. Moreover, the extra experience can easily come in handy. Plus, practicing how to drive in different conditions will boost your confidence behind the wheel. For example, you can learn some tips for truckers on how to drive in a snowstorm.

3. What Skills Can I Develop Besides Driving For A Job?

Although your driving skills will be crucial to finding a job, that’s not the only important thing. If you want to increase your chances of employment, you have to learn and develop other employable skills beyond driving. That kind of continuous skill-building is really at the heart of career development strategies for working professionals, no matter the industry.

For example, skills like effective communication, mechanic skills, and the ability to do research will make you more desirable to potential employers. You can also research other essential skills you should have, depending on the type of driving job you want. Formal training like this is a solid way of how to build career resilience before you’ve even landed your first role.

So, how do you develop these skills? You can learn them online. Thankfully, many social media platforms and educational blogs are available, offering free but useful tips.

4. Should I Consider Attending A Driving School First?

Another great way to get a driving job is to enroll in a driving school, depending on the type of driving job you want.

For example, you can find a truck driving school if you’re targeting a job as a truck driver. In fact, different training schools are available, offering different levels of training to meet varying driving opportunities. For instance, conduct a simple search online to locate a driving school near you.

Next, find out about their requirements and how you can enroll. One great thing about specialized driving schools is that they can easily connect you with opportunities once you complete your training. It’s worth using that moment to also think about how to evaluate your career trajectory beyond just the first job.