Please note: This is not legal or financial advice and should be used for entertainment purposes only. You absolutely will need to do a deeper dive research on each step and consult with an attorney [or multiple ones] to do this legally and safely. Consider a LegalShield Small Business plan as an option to save on your legal expenses.
Making the leap from one-truck owner-operator to becoming a small fleet owner is a big deal. Bringing on your first driver can increase your income and free you up from the driver’s seat—but only if you do it right. Hiring the wrong person or skipping key steps can set you back fast. If you’re ready to grow, here’s how to hire your first truck driver the smart way.
1. Know Why You’re Hiring
Start by identifying why you’re hiring. Is it to take on more loads? Handle overflow? Step away from the truck yourself? Your reason will guide who you hire—whether it’s a seasoned solo driver, a local hauler, or even a part-time relief driver.
2. Understand the Costs
Hiring a driver means new expenses. You’ll need to factor in:
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Wages or per-mile pay
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Workers’ comp insurance
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Payroll taxes
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Benefits (if offered)
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Truck maintenance or new equipment
Make sure your cash flow supports these changes long-term, not just for a good month or two.
3. Get Your Business Ready
Before hiring, take care of:
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DOT authority (if needed for expanded operations)
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Employer Identification Number (EIN)
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Workers’ Compensation Insurance
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Payroll system (in-house or outsourced)
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A solid employment agreement
Don’t treat it like a handshake deal—treat it like you’re building a real business. Because you are.
4. Create a Clear Job Description
Outline expectations clearly:
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Type of routes (OTR, regional, local)
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Pay structure (hourly, CPM, percentage)
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Schedule and time off
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Truck assignment
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Minimum experience required
A good driver wants to know what the job is before applying.
5. Screen for More Than a Clean MVR
Yes, you need a clean driving record—but look beyond that:
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Can they communicate clearly?
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Do they handle stress well?
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Are they reliable and safety-minded?
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Will they treat your equipment and customers with care?
Do a background check, verify employment history, and if possible, talk with previous employers.
6. Offer Competitive Pay and Respect
You don’t have to pay top dollar, but you must offer something fair. Pay late or treat a driver like a disposable tool, and word will spread fast. Hiring your first driver means learning to lead—not just manage.
7. Keep Compliance Tight
Hiring brings more rules:
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Driver qualification file (DQF)
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Drug/alcohol testing compliance (FMCSA)
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Hours of service logs
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ELDs and pre-employment testing
If you’re not sure what’s required, work with a compliance service or DOT consultant before bringing someone on.
8. Build a Relationship
Your first driver sets the tone for your company. If you hire well, you could be laying the foundation for a long-term team member—or even your future fleet manager. Build mutual trust and communicate often. Don’t disappear the minute they hit the road.
Final Thoughts
Hiring your first truck driver is exciting, but it’s also a serious responsibility. The right hire can help you grow into the next phase of your business. The wrong one can drive it into the ground. Prepare, plan, and proceed with intention—and you’ll be shifting gears toward success.
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