Want to earn more money? Got a driver’s license? There are many jobs that involve driving from taxi driving to be a delivery courier. However, some driving jobs are much better paid than others. Getting into one of these high paid jobs could be a great way to make a living if you’re a confident driver and you enjoy spending time on the road. Below are a few examples of high paying driving jobs that could be worth looking into.
Team truck drivers
Average salary: $80k to $140k per year
Team truck driving involves two truck drivers working in a pair – both take turns to drive and rest, allowing long-haul journeys to be completed more quickly. This does require spending long periods of time away from home and being able to sleep in a truck. However, you could earn double the salary of a regular truck driver. To become a team truck driver, you’ll need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) so that you can legally drive a truck and potentially some previous truck driving experience.
Tanker drivers
Average salary: $50k to $80k per year
Tanker drivers can also earn more than regular truck drivers. This is because the cargo is seen as potentially more hazardous and requires more careful driving as a result. To become a tanker driver you’ll need a CDL license and you’ll need to undergo specialized tanker training. It’s worth noting that you can earn even more as a tanker HAZMAT driver – the transportation of hazardous materials can earn you over $100k per year at some companies.
Automobile haulers
Average salary: $50k to $100k per year
Automobile haulers transport cars on trucks. This requires additional skill and responsibility compared to a regular truck driver, and as a result is often paid more generously. Some automobile haulers own their own truck, while others get their truck via a company. You’ll need a CDL and appropriate endorsements to carry out this job.
Ice road truckers
Average salary: $20k to $80k in 4 months
Ice road trucking is a very niche form of trucking that involves driving potentially icy routes in states like Alaska during the winter months. As you can imagine, it’s more dangerous than regular truck driving – however you can get paid anywhere from $20k to $80k over a 3 to 4 month period (that’s potentially $5k to $20k per month!). This makes it an attractive temp job to some truck drivers with the option to take up other jobs throughout the year. Just be sure to consider the risks.
Private chauffeurs
Average salary: $30k to $70k per year
Don’t have a CDL? There are potentially high paying driving jobs that don’t involve operating a truck – such as becoming a private chauffeur. This involves providing personalized transportation services to clients. You will need to be able to work within your client’s schedule and you’ll need to keep your vehicle clean and maintained. Most chauffeurs make between $30k to $70k per year, but some high profile chauffeurs make over $100k. This article explains more about how to become a chauffeur.
