Is being retired hurting me?

One other thing that I will mention, Crusty. All drivers must account for their time gaps on employment. You may be required to produce proof that you were retired during the recent gap. Tax returns may be all you need to who them. If you receive a monthly check you might want to get that and have it ready to show any potential employer. Most people don't retire until they are at least 65, so you will most likely need to show proof of income to prove what you have been doing the last couple of years. In this business drivers need to prove everything. I suppose it is due to the liability. Carriers are required to get a 10 year work history, even if part of that time is not working, in school or retired. We are required to check at least the last 3 years. If carriers cannot verify the information you provide on your application, then they will not hire you. If one carrier turns you down then I would ask why they turned you down. There could be something on your application or background check that causes them concern. It may be something minor. Older drivers are actually more sought after in this business then younger drivers. The main reason is the work ethic. Older drivers usually have a better work ethic than younger drivers. We may move a little slower, but get the job done.

 

Insurance companies only check how long you have had your CDL. You may see if you can find an owner operator who runs their authority or someone with a few trucks that will give you a chance. They may not even require a training period.

Things have changed a lot in the last 10 years or so. CSA is changing the industry as is the EOBR's that they want to push down our collective throats. I used to keep the pedal to the metal, but usually drive around 60-65 mph. Fuel is too expensive and the costs of getting a ticket are too great. These days if a 4 wheeler runs into your truck you could be held liable whether guilty or not. All the lawyers need to do is show that your logs are out or some other minor infraction for him to get a big paycheck. Carriers don't want those risks. That is why some are so restrictive in their hiring requirements.

I see that you are from Canton. You may check with Millis. They have a facility in Cartersville. US Xpress has a facility in Tunnel Hill, just sound of Chattanooga. I would also encourage you to check with your local state employment office. Most have driving jobs posted. Some are locally based, but others are national carriers.

 

I don't think that I would send tax returns unless asked. It would be too easy for someone to get your personal information. You might mention to the recruiter that it is available, but I would wait until they actually ask for the information. You could even wait until you get to orientation.

I believe that Millis does hire from outside their own school. You might contact them at their corporate office or check with Cartersville. I am sure you can google them to get the number. Finding a driving job is a matter of playing the numbers game. If you send out enough applications or resume's then you will find a job. If you want to pull reefer there is a smaller carrier in north Georgia that I am somewhat familiar. I believe they have about 60 trucks. I know one of their drivers who used to be an owner operator. It is well past 70 years old and teams with another guy and they run the northwest about every week. If you are interested let me know and I will get the name.

 

Studies are showing that age discrimination happens to people as young as 40 years old.

 

It's not an age thing, I started at May when I was 64, no prior experience, just out of school, you will have to go out with a Trainer, after I drove for May, went to another Company and drove for 5 more years, just retired last month.

 

For got to put in,,, there are forms that you can have friends and neighbors sign that your were retired,,,,,,, they are looking for verification of the time gap

 

I feel the biggest problem is talking to the mega trucking companies.
A small outfit would put you right in a truck and on your way.
I was retired from it for over a year and this worked for me i am still driving for them.

Heck,you have years experience AND a school certificate! What more could they ask for!
Get a year with them and the doors are wide open then.