Truck Driver - Interview Questions

Any employer will want to know what interested you in working for them. There are a hundred different ways to answer this and one way to never answer: “I just really need a job.” Don’t. Ever. Say. This. (Even if it’s true.) We’re willing to bet that it’s not, though. Being a truck driver requires a certain level of interest in operating vehicles and traveling. So what drew you to the position? Are you a mechanic junkie? Interested in seeing more of the country? Excited to fill a crucial role in the day-to-day of our country? Be passionate in your response!

Short and simple with this question. There’s a good chance it will be part of your application, but it can come up during an interview too. Different companies have different requirements but, generally, you’ll at least need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in order to be considered for the job. The application process varies state-by-state. Here’s a good guide to get you started. 

This question is all about punctuality and timeliness. As a truck driver, you’ll be operating on a strict schedule. Remember that. Your cargo is part of a much larger supply chain. It’s imperative you stick to structure and deliver your supplies on time. You can approach this question from a generalist’s point-of-view and briefly explain the importance of any deadline, but then you’ll want to speak specifically to truck driving. Again, truck drivers are one piece of the transportation puzzle. A missed deadline can throw everything off. 

As for the second question, don’t lie! The employer understands you’re a human being. Just be ready to explain what you learned from missing a deadline, and how you didn’t let it happen again.

An upset customer? Yes. You might spend most of your time on the road, but you’ll still need customer service skills for when you drop off your cargo. This question digs into your conflict resolution ability. Take the customer-focused approach, explaining how you would do everything in your power to understand the customer’s anger and, in representing your company, would try your best to resolve the issue.

Because truck driving is such a specific job, expect specific questions like this one during the interview. Don’t worry – you don’t need to pull out a repair manual’s worth of info; instead, understand what this question is really asking: How would you make sure that you and your truck remain safe? That’s the biggie. Emphasize that you would immediately seek a safe location (without jeopardizing the safety of others). Then, you’d follow whatever procedures the company has for breakdown scenarios. Maybe you’re a mechanical guru and can pinpoint the issue yourself. Still, defer to the company’s guidelines. Sure, you probably don’t know these yet in an interview, but it’ll prove to your employer that you have strong critical thinking skills and won’t panic in a stressful situation.

Still driving? That’s all the employer wants to know. Are you looking to make a career out of this position? How do you hope to grow as a truck driver? Think about this one for awhile so that you can give an honest and reflective response. We also have a helpful post on this very question. Check out How to Answer “Where Would You Like to Be in 5 Years?”

Your truck is your livelihood, and the employer wants to know that you care for it as so. Tractor-trailers certainly accrue a bit more wear and tear than the average vehicle, so they might need some extra TLC. Here’s a maintenance list to get you started. When it comes to answering this question, you don’t necessarily need to regurgitate maintenance points. Just show that you have an idea of how to take care of your vehicle and, more importantly, that it matters to you.

Strategy, strategy, strategy. That’s what this question wants you to answer. What’ll you use to plan a route? Ex. Google Maps. How would you account for traffic and roadblocks? Ex. Monitoring news outlets. Better yet, plan alternative routes just in case. Show the employer that strategizing is part of your skillset. 

Even if you like driving, long hours on the road can be draining. This question wants to make sure you know how to stay safe behind the wheel, but also that you’re able to stay motivated despite the monotony. Consider what keeps you energized and focused. What is it about driving that interests you most?