Light Truck Drivers Salary 2025: $44,860 Median Pay, Fast Growth
Light truck drivers earned a median $44,860 in 2025, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average hourly wage works out to roughly $22, with the top 10% pulling in over $80,310. Employment across the country stands at 983,300, and the field is growing faster than average—7.3% projected from 2024 to 2034. That translates to about 120,200 new openings each year, driven by e-commerce and local delivery demand.
How much Light Truck Drivers earn
The median salary for light truck drivers is $44,860—half earn more, half earn less. The typical range runs from $30,800 at the 10th percentile to $80,310 at the 90th. That bottom number often reflects entry-level or part-time work; the top end includes experienced drivers in high-cost areas or specialized routes.
Pay varies by employer type. Drivers working for couriers and express delivery services tend to earn near the median, while those in specialized freight or with hazmat endorsements can push into the upper range. Overtime is common, and many drivers get paid by the mile or by the stop, which can push annual earnings well above the base salary.
- Median: $44,860
- Mean: $48,770 (about $22/hour)
- 10th percentile: $30,800
- 90th percentile: $80,310
Pay by state
Where you drive matters. The highest-paying state for light truck drivers is Alaska at $57,190, followed by District of Columbia ($49,330), Washington ($49,070), Minnesota ($48,880), and Colorado ($48,410). These states tend to have higher costs of living, strong union presence, or remote delivery premiums.
On the lower end, Mississippi drivers average $38,140, South Carolina $37,680, and Arkansas $37,080. Keep in mind these are averages; an experienced driver with a clean record can still earn above the state mean, especially in metro areas.
- Top-paying states: Alaska ($57,190), DC ($49,330), WA ($49,070), MN ($48,880), CO ($48,410)
- Lower-paying states: MS ($38,140), SC ($37,680), AR ($37,080)
How to become a Light Truck Driver
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver's license with a clean record. For vehicles over 26,000 pounds, you'll need a commercial driver's license (CDL)—typically a Class B. Some jobs, like delivering furniture or appliances, may only require a regular license and on-the-job training.
The typical path: get your regular driver's license, then look for entry-level jobs that offer paid training. Many delivery companies, freight carriers, and logistics firms hire new drivers with no experience and put them through a short training program. You can also attend a private truck driving school (costs vary, often $3,000 to $7,000), but it's not mandatory.
Once hired, you'll need to pass a DOT physical, drug screening, and sometimes a road test. Endorsements for hazardous materials or tanker can boost pay but require additional written tests.
- 1. High school diploma or GED
- 2. Valid driver's license (clean record)
- 3. CDL Class B if vehicle over 26,000 lbs
- 4. On-the-job training or driving school (optional)
- 5. DOT physical and drug test
- 6. Optional endorsements for higher pay
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment of light truck drivers will grow 7.3% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That's largely due to the continued boom in e-commerce and local delivery—think Amazon, food delivery services, and last-mile logistics. About 120,200 openings are expected annually, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field.
Job prospects are best for drivers with clean records, CDL endorsements, and flexibility to work evenings or weekends. The occupation has a relatively low barrier to entry, so competition for the best-paying jobs can be strong. But overall, demand for moving goods locally isn't going away.
Frequently asked questions
How much do light truck drivers make per hour?
The mean hourly wage is about $22, according to the BLS. The median annual salary of $44,860 works out to roughly $21.57 per hour based on a 40-hour week.
Do light truck drivers need a CDL?
It depends on the vehicle. If the truck's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) exceeds 26,000 pounds, you need a CDL—usually a Class B. Many light truck driver jobs involve vehicles under that threshold, so only a regular driver's license is required.
What's the job growth for light truck drivers?
The BLS projects 7.3% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average. That's about 120,200 openings per year, fueled by e-commerce and local delivery demand.
Which state pays light truck drivers the most?
Alaska tops the list with an average salary of $57,190. Other high-paying states include Washington, D.C. ($49,330), Washington ($49,070), Minnesota ($48,880), and Colorado ($48,410).
How do I become a light truck driver with no experience?
Start with a clean driver's license and apply to entry-level delivery jobs. Many companies hire without experience and provide on-the-job training. If you need a CDL, some employers will sponsor your training.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Light Truck Drivers data.