Why Going Cross-Country After CDL Graduation Is the Smartest Move You Can Make

Don't put the cart before the horse. Research jobs before you decide on trucking! 

We get it — not everyone dreams of being away from home, hauling loads from coast to coast. Maybe your heart’s set on a local route, clocking out by dinner and sleeping in your own bed. That’s a great goal — and we’re here to help you get there. But here’s the honest truth: most local driving jobs aren’t available to brand-new CDL grads.

🚦 Why? It All Comes Down to Experience.

Local routes are in high demand, and most companies want drivers with 6 to 12 months of over-the-road (OTR) experience before handing over those coveted local gigs. It’s not because you’re not capable — it’s because OTR driving helps you build the skills, discipline, and confidence that make you a safe, reliable driver.

That experience proves you can handle:

• Tight delivery schedules

• Various road and weather conditions

• Long hauls and customer interactions

• Real-world responsibility behind the wheel

  
  

🚚 So What’s the Next Step?

Once you graduate from CDL school, cross-country or regional driving is your gateway. These jobs are much more available to new drivers and offer competitive pay, full benefits, and — most importantly — a fast track to your end goal: going local.

🤝 We Don’t Leave You Hanging — Career Services Has Your Back

At our school, you're not just trained and tossed out into the job market. Our career services team connects you directly with reputable carriers that are known for hiring new grads. We'll help you:

• Choose the right company based on your goals

• Apply and get placed quickly after graduation

• Start gaining the experience you need to move into local positions

  
  

🏠 The Road To Home Starts On the Road

It might not be your first choice, but driving cross-country right after graduation is often the smartest and quickest way to land the kind of local job you really want. You put in the time, gain experience, and doors start to open — and you won’t be doing it alone.

Let’s hit the road together — your local driving future starts here.