Im sixty years old and semi retired. About 8 yeras ago I got my class a cdl but never used it even though I've kept it current. My delima is this; I want to come out of semi retirement. I live alone in a three bedroom house and the walls are closing. The idea of getting out and driving, which I love to do and seeing more of this country is extremely appealing I'm active, physically fit, and anxious to get back to real work. Now the question, will I be able too? I realize there are truck drivers out there older then me and driving but I'm assuming many of them have been so doing for quite awhile. I have signed up for an eight week 320 hour driving school at a nearby Community College for the simple reason they provide a much more in depth training then most of the three week driving schools. Ive read the qualifications necessary
to get hired on from hundreds of trucking companies and nowhere to they post anything more then must be at least 21. I've talked to six or seven recuriters and keep getting the same old they don't discrimate based on age but I can't help but wonder. Please is there anyone out there that can shed some light on my concern. I would really appreciate insight from folks with real knowledge. Thanks
age restrictions
Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by seawolfe, Nov 7, 2012.
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I don't really think there is an age limit. I used to be a trainer, and I trained a guy that was 79 years old. He did great.
seawolfe Thanks this. -
i've read about this kind of delima before several years back, as long as you have a solid work history and a reputable training facility "a place were you got schooled" then there shouldn't be a problem. many companies are looking for people who are older to drive trucks around because they have more experience and not much can distract them as younger people... yes i am slandering my own age group... "age 23" but with some companies it's the exact opposite. you will have a better chance at getting a trucking job if you teamed up with someone. most companies have a time limit on their cargo so if you drove in teams then your chances of getting hired are considerably increased.
it wouldn't hurt to get a refresher course from a school or college, that way you can show the trucking company that your up to date and willing to do the job. if they should as a question "why we should hire you out of many others" just tell them that you love driving, they'll be doing you and the company a favor considering that you love to drive and that you will be transporting their cargo for them. this way the employer will see that you wouldn't have much to complain about like newbie drivers. hope this helps you some.seawolfe Thanks this. -
I am a recruiter and I would not turn you away based on your age. It is actually against the law to do that. As long as you can pass the physical, you should be good to go.
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Start calling around to the different companies and talk to the recruiters. What it will boil down to is the DOT physical and also some companies give wellness exams (which is basically workmans comp protection) as long as you pass those you shouldn't have a problem.
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The real reason age discrimination exists at all is because companies want their employees to represent a younger more "energetic", leading edge look. They don't want their company to appear tired and gray, behind the times to their customers and investors. As a high tech marketing guy I don't fit the youthful profile companies want...plus I kinda burnt out on it anywaze.
With trucking age doesn't much matter, as it's one of the most diverse work forces in existence anyway.
The only "discrimination" is with health, driving record or criminal history.seawolfe Thanks this. -
Pass the DOT....
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My co-driver did the very same thing you are trying to do. He came out of retirement to drive again. He's 66 years old and gets by just fine!
I think its great that you don't want to just sit at home and garden or do crossword puzzles the rest of your life! Why not tour around and get paid. Find yourself a nice lady willing to ride around with you and it will be a fun adventure!
Companies may even rather have you then someone younger because they know you are more responsible and also have no reason to be home.
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