Becoming a CDL owner operator appeals to many aspiring truck drivers due to the independence, flexibility, and potential for higher earnings. However, one of the most common questions young drivers ask is whether they can begin their journey as an owner operator at 19. While there are opportunities to start your CDL career at 19, there are important limitations and considerations, especially regarding regulations and experience requirements.
In this blog, we’ll explore the rules around becoming a CDL owner operator and holder at a young age and the steps you can take to start your career early.
CDL Age Requirements
The minimum age for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) has been set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Here are the basic guidelines:
- Intrastate CDL (Within State Lines)
- At the age of 18, you can apply for a CDL, but you are limited to intrastate driving, which means you can only operate within your home state. You cannot cross state lines or transport goods in interstate commerce.
- If you’re 19, you can still get a CDL but can only drive within the state where you are licensed.
- Interstate CDL (Across State Lines)
- To drive across state lines or engage in interstate commerce, including transporting goods internationally or between states, you must be at least 21 years old. This limitation applies to driving heavy trucks and operating as an owner-operator in interstate trucking.
- To drive across state lines or engage in interstate commerce, including transporting goods internationally or between states, you must be at least 21 years old. This limitation applies to driving heavy trucks and operating as an owner-operator in interstate trucking.
Can You Be a CDL Owner Operator at 19?
Yes, you can become a CDL owner operator at 19, but there are limitations and challenges. You can obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate commercial vehicles within your state (intrastate), but you are allowed to drive across state lines once you turn 21. This restriction may limit your opportunities for finding work, especially since many high-paying loads involve interstate travel.
Additionally, younger drivers often face higher insurance premiums, and securing truck financing can be difficult due to a lack of credit history and experience. While it’s possible to become an owner-operator at this age, many young drivers gain experience working for a company before investing in their trucking business. This helps them build the necessary skills, connections, and financial stability for long-term success.
Steps to Becoming an Owner-Operator at a Young Age
Becoming a successful owner-operator at a young age is possible with careful planning, dedication, and intelligent decision-making. Here are the key steps you can take to build a foundation for success:
1. Obtain Your CDL at 18
You can get your CDL in most states at the age of 18. This allows you to begin driving commercial vehicles within state lines (intrastate). Use this time to gain experience driving professionally, learning about the trucking industry, and honing your skills.
2. Start as a Company Driver
Gaining experience as a company driver is a great way to learn the ins and outs of the trucking industry. By driving for a trucking company, you can build your skills, get familiar with the different types of cargo, and understand the logistics involved in delivering goods. It will also help you make valuable connections in the industry, which could be helpful when you’re ready to become an owner-operator.
3. Build Your Credit and Financial Stability
Purchasing or leasing a truck requires solid credit and financial resources. Start building your credit early by managing your finances responsibly and opening a small credit account or credit card. This will help you when it’s time to apply for truck financing or business loans. Also, save for a down payment on your truck, as this will improve your financing options.
4. Research the Costs and Responsibilities of Ownership
Before becoming an owner-operator, you should thoroughly research the responsibilities involved. Understand the costs of purchasing, maintaining, and insuring a truck. Be prepared to manage fuel expenses, repairs, licensing fees, and other operating costs. Owning your truck also means dealing with paperwork, taxes, and business management.
5. Network and Build Industry Connections
Networking is a valuable tool for young drivers. As you work as a company driver, begin building relationships with brokers, shippers, and other drivers. These connections can help you find loads, offer advice, and provide guidance as you start owning your business. Connecting to the trucking community can also give you an edge in finding new opportunities and staying informed about the latest industry trends.
6. Explore Intrastate Opportunities
Since you’ll be limited to intrastate driving until you turn 21, look for local or regional driving opportunities that allow you to work within your state. Industries like construction, agriculture, and delivery services often require local trucking, and these jobs can be a good starting point for gaining experience and building your business.
7. Secure Truck Financing
Explore your financing options when you’re ready to purchase or lease a truck. If necessary, consider working with a co-signer to improve your chances of securing a loan. Carefully compare loan terms and interest rates to find the best deal. Building good credit and saving for a truck’s down payment will improve your financing options.
8. Obtain Proper Insurance
As a young owner-operator, insurance will be one of your most significant expenses. Work with insurance brokers specializing in the trucking industry to find the most competitive rates. You’ll need liability insurance, cargo insurance, and physical damage coverage for your truck. Be prepared for higher premiums due to your age and limited experience.
9. Learn Business Management Skills
Running your own trucking business requires more than just driving skills. You’ll need to handle the business side of operations, including managing finances, taxes, contracts, and logistics. Consider taking business courses or seeking mentorship to help you learn how to run a successful operation. Many owner-operators start small, taking local contracts and gradually expanding their business.
10. Work Toward Gaining Interstate Driving Privileges
Once you reach the age of 21, you’ll be eligible to drive across state lines. Your opportunities for finding higher-paying loads and longer routes will increase at that point. Use the time before turning 21 to build a solid foundation in local trucking, grow your business, and gain the experience needed for more lucrative interstate jobs.
Conclusion
While you can obtain your CDL and start working as a truck driver at 19, becoming a CDL owner operator at this age presents additional challenges. From limited driving opportunities to high insurance costs and difficulty securing equipment financing, building experience and preparing financially are essential before diving into the owner-operator business. Taking the proper steps early can position you for success and become an owner-operator once you meet the age requirements for interstate driving.
FAQs
Yes, you can get a CDL at 18 or 19, but you’ll only be allowed to drive within your state (intrastate) until you turn 21.
While it is possible to become an owner-operator at 19, challenges like limited driving opportunities, high insurance costs, and difficulty securing financing may make gaining experience before starting your own business more practical.
At 19, you can work in intrastate trucking jobs such as local delivery, construction, or agricultural hauling. These jobs keep you within your home state, as crossing state lines is prohibited at age 21.
