How to Become a CDL-A Team Driver: Step-by-Step Guide
- Michael Thomas
- Jul 26
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 2
Why Team Driving Is a Great Career Choice
If you’re a CDL-A driver looking to maximize your income, cover more miles, and enjoy steady freight, team driving is one of the best opportunities in the trucking industry.
Team drivers—often husband-wife pairs, friends, or professional partners—share driving duties, which means the truck stays on the road longer and earns more.
Team drivers can earn up to 20–30% more than solo drivers because carriers prioritize team freight for faster delivery times.
Step 1: Meet the CDL-A Requirements
Before you can become a team driver, you must:
Have a valid CDL-A license
Meet FMCSA age & health requirements
Pass a DOT physical exam
Maintain a clean driving record
If you don’t already have a CDL-A license, you’ll need to attend a truck driving school and complete your training.
Step 2: Find a Driving Partner
Most team drivers are:
Married couples looking to earn more together
Friends or colleagues who want to maximize miles
Professional co-drivers matched by a carrier
If you don’t have a partner, some trucking companies will help pair you with another driver.
Step 3: Apply for Team Driving Jobs
Once you have a CDL-A and a partner, you can start applying for high-paying team driving jobs.
Top-paying team freight often includes:
Expedited loads
Long-haul OTR (over-the-road)
Dedicated team lanes
Carriers prefer teams because they can keep freight moving 24/7 without stopping for long breaks.
Step 4: Understand Team Driving Pay
Team drivers typically:
Earn more cents-per-mile (CPM) than solo drivers
Cover 5,000–6,000+ miles per week
Get priority loads from carriers
In many cases, team drivers split the total mileage pay, which still equals higher weekly earnings.
Benefits of Being a Team Driver
Higher income potential
Fewer layovers & delays
More miles = more experience
Stronger job security (carriers love teams!)
Ready to Start Your Team Driving Career?
Team driving is one of the fastest ways to increase your income as a CDL-A driver. Whether you’re a husband-wife team or looking for a driving partner, there are plenty of premium team freight opportunities available nationwide.
