Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers transport goods from one location to another. Most tractor-trailer drivers are long-haul drivers and operate trucks with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) capacity—that is, the combined weight of the vehicle, passengers, and cargo—exceeding 26,000 pounds. These drivers deliver goods over intercity routes, sometimes spanning several states.

Working as a long-haul truck driver is a major lifestyle choice because these drivers can be away from home for days or weeks at a time.

Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers usually have a high school diploma and attend a professional truckdriving school. They must have a commercial driver's license (CDL).

The median annual wage for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers was $40,260 in May 2015.

Employment of heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers is projected to grow 5 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average of all occupations. As the economy grows, the demand for goods will increase and more truck drivers will be needed to keep supply chains moving.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers with similar occupations.

Learn more about heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.