Too old at 49?

49? You're almost over the hill. Driving down the other side is easy. As long as you have your health you're good to go.

 

49? man you're still in diapers as far as a driving career goes...companies love to get mature folks.......

 

Started 8 months ago after 30 years at a desk, loving it. Go for it.

 

I got back in after a 30 year hiatus... at the young age of 57. VERY happy with my decision.

In my orientation class at Swift there were 18 folks that successfully completed the class (out of 41 that started). I wasn't the youngest, I think that title was held by a newbie at the age of 67. There were 5 of us that were over 50, and 10 of us were over 40.

I think older drivers are "in the sweet spot" as far as trucking companies are concerned. We have practical experience beyond trucking (like understanding the basics of business, how bills of lading work, dealing with customers in a positive manner, etc.) as well as being a much better insurance risk than a 20 something that is still trying to work out issues with aggression and testosterone.

If you want exercise, go into flatbedding or local deliveries (like beer distributors, etc.). If you want a job that has less physical demands then drive a dry van (aka "door swinger"). There's lots of opportunities for older drivers. If you have business experience and want to make the most of this career, then you are ahead of the game if you want to become an owner operator. Most truckers that fail at being O/O's seem to have little "business smarts" and treat their gross profits as though it were net profits.

 

I will be 60 next month, worked in aviation for the last 20 yrs and ready for a change. Always thought about it but had young kids back then and now just the wife and I. Hope we can be team drivers.

 

They are just jealous.

 

There was a gentleman on who started driving in his early 60's. Go for it if it's what you want to do.

 

What is this 'too old' business? I see people out running trucks into their 70's. My Uncle Larry still drives Specialized/Flatbed/Heavy Haul and he's 68. He's still a pretty happy guy, too.

 

They love them in diapers. They don't have to stop!

 

I did not start driving until i was 51. Go for it!