How to Get Sponsored Truck Driving Jobs in USA For Foreigners
Truck driving is one of the most in-demand professions in the United States, with a constant need for drivers to transport goods across the country. While many Americans pursue this career, there are also many opportunities for foreigners to find sponsored truck driving jobs in the USA.
SA Trucker is in contact with many truck drivers who were based in South Africa but now working in the USA. Many of them made it into the USA through sponsored truck driver jobs offered through employment agencies.
In this blog post, we will explore some ways to find these jobs and the requirements for foreign nationals to work in the trucking industry.
Research Trucking Companies
The first step in finding sponsored truck driving jobs in the USA is to research trucking companies that are willing to sponsor foreign workers. Some large trucking companies have programs that provide sponsorship for non-US citizens. These programs are designed to help foreign nationals obtain the necessary work visas and permits to work legally in the US.
Read | What to expect when you are called for a truck driving job interview
Some examples of trucking companies that offer sponsorship programs for foreign drivers include Schneider National, Swift Transportation, and Werner Enterprises. These companies typically require candidates to have a valid driver’s license from their home country and a clean driving record.
Check Government Programs
Another option for finding sponsored truck driving jobs is to check government programs that are designed to help foreign workers find employment in the US. The US Department of Labor’s Foreign Labor Certification Program is one such program that helps foreign workers find jobs in industries where there is a shortage of American workers.
To qualify for this program, foreign workers must have a valid job offer from a US employer and a certification from the Department of Labor. Trucking companies that are experiencing a shortage of drivers may be more likely to sponsor foreign workers through this program.
Work with a Recruiting Agency
Working with a recruiting agency that specializes in helping foreign nationals find sponsored truck driving jobs in the US can be a helpful option. These agencies have experience working with trucking companies and can help match candidates with employers who are willing to sponsor them.
Some recruiting agencies that specialize in finding sponsored truck driving jobs for foreigners include Visa Solutions, TalentAhead, the J.B. Hunt International Hiring Program, and Maverick Transportation International Program. These agencies have provided assistance a lot of South African truck drivers with obtaining the necessary work visas and permits to work in the US.
Requirements for Foreign Nationals to Work in the Trucking Industry
To work as a truck driver in the US, foreign nationals must have a valid work visa and a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The CDL is a requirement for all drivers who operate a commercial motor vehicle in the US, including trucks and buses.
To obtain a CDL, candidates must meet specific requirements, such as having a clean driving record, passing a written and practical driving test, and meeting age requirements. The age requirement varies by state, but most states require drivers to be at least 21 years old to operate a commercial vehicle.
Finding sponsored truck driving jobs in the USA for foreigners requires some research and planning. By researching trucking companies that offer sponsorship programs, checking government programs, and working with recruiting agencies, foreign nationals can increase their chances of finding employment as truck drivers in the US.
Additionally, meeting the requirements for obtaining a work visa and a CDL is crucial for foreign nationals who want to work in the trucking industry.
