AGE QUESTION: Is 56 too old to become a trucker?

Forgot you,ll be required to grab your ankles

 

Flying Dutchman, what is your truck #? I've seen a number of your trucks rolling 99 and I-80 in Sacto. Would like to meet you or honk.

Back to the thread, if you are in "decent" shape, you should be able to survive. Trucking is hard on the body and mind. Feed it with good stuff and you should be ok.

 

I am a dispatcher, no longer a driver. I used to drive, but it was out of Modesto....I've done maybe a dozen loads up here in Sac lol.

 

JRO, Look at the years these guys have driving. They are giving you some of the best advise, and for FREE. You have lifes experience, go with your dreams, as soon as you get good at this, you`ll be eligible for Medicare. Go out and enjoy yourself trucking. Good Luck.

 

I'd much rather see more 56-year-old guys starting up than most of the 20-somethings nowadays.

If that's what drives you (no pun intended), then go for it!

 

I started when I was 58 and am pulling flatbeds! You can do it if you are in shape!

 

The last outfit I was leased to had two harvest drivers in their 80's... one guy started driving during the Korean War!!!

 

I've been solo for just over 8 months. I'm 57.

 

Thanks for all the input. I really enjoy being on the road alone and always thought I should be doing it professionally. Driving keeps my brain stimulated and driving a rig must multiply what I drive by a large number.

I have some other basic questions... I'll ask those in fresh thread(s) unless someone suggests a more suitable method. My next question is about the CDL and if there are better states to get it. I have a Oregon drivers license now but can change residency. Are there "better" states over others to get the CDL and base out of?

 

I'm glad to hear you say that. I was wondering if I was too old at 51 to start a career change.