How Many Hours Does a Truck Driver Typically Work?
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Are you considering a career as a truck driver? If so, you may be wondering what the hours are going to be like. The answer, as you might expect, depends on a variety of factors, including:
- The type of vehicle you drive
- The kinds of runs you make
- The demand for your services
- Your contract with your employer
In general, however, most truck drivers work between 50 and 60 hours per week.
Truck Driver Hours of Service Regulations
In addition to those factors listed above, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Hours of Service regulations will play a significant role in the number of hours you work.
There are two main rules that are likely to have an impact on your working hours. They are:
The 14-Hour Limit
This FMCSA rule states that a truck driver cannot be on duty for more than 14 hours each day. It explains that truckers must have 10 consecutive hours off duty before returning to work.
Of the 14 hours a trucker spends on duty every day, only 11 can be used for driving. The other 3 hours should be used for inspections, fueling, and other non-driving activities.
Additionally, truckers cannot use all 11 of their driving hours consecutively. The FMCSA requires them to take a 30-minute break after reaching 8 hours of driving time.
The 60/70 Hour Rule
This FMCSA rule says that a truck driver who works for 7 consecutive days may only be on duty for a maximum of 60 hours. It further states that a trucker who works for 8 consecutive days can only be on duty for a maximum of 70 hours.
If a trucker reaches their 60 or 70-hour limit before their 7 or 8-day window closes, they must:
- Avoid driving until their hours on duty drop below the 60 or 70-hour limit
- Take a break of 34 consecutive hours
In some cases, truckers who hit their hours-of-service limit may also be allowed to keep driving if their journey was unexpectedly lengthened by snow, fog, or other adverse weather.
Drivers and trucking companies that violate either of these FMCSA regulations may face severe penalties, such as:
- Roadside shutdowns
- Civil penalties
- Fines, and
- Reductions in safety ratings
Repeated violations of these rules can even lead to the suspension of a driver’s CDL.
Become a Truck Driver with Logisticize
Are you ready to put in the hours and begin your career as a truck driver? If so, Logisticize is the perfect place to start!
Our knowledgeable management team will ensure you stay compliant with all FMCSA rules. We will also provide you with a variety of perks and benefits, such as:
- A competitive wage
- Achievable safety bonuses
- High-quality health insurance
- Weekends and holidays at home, and
- Career advancement opportunities
If you’d like to learn more about becoming a truck driver with Logisticize, please fill out our short online contact form or give us a call at (419) 399-3900. When you’re ready to get started, simply fill in our quick apply form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
