How to Hire a Driver

Salary Information

*Indeed data (CA) – Jan 2020

Why hire a driver?

Hiring a driver can be a beneficial addition to your team and business, especially finding a driver who can perform day-to-day tasks responsibly to ensure deliveries are made on time, customer needs are met, and company equipment is properly maintained. Accomplished drivers demonstrate flexibility when adapting to changing circumstances, remain focused when working under pressure, and handle packages with care.

Contributions of a great driver:

• Drive safely in all types of weather, including rain, fog, and light snow
• Follow written and verbal instructions to complete deliveries in a timely manner
• Properly maintain logs to track routes and deliveries
• Perform preventative vehicle maintenance checks and notify the appropriate contact of any red flags
• Identify ways to increase productivity and exceed goals
• Occasionally work overtime, evenings, nights, or weekends

Skills to look for in a great driver

Successful drivers can positively impact your bottom line. By referencing prior training, managing time effectively, and adapting quickly to unexpected circumstances, a talented driver is able to increase company revenue and conserve resources. 

Driver qualifications:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• Ability to understand and follow traffic rules
• Navigation app, GPS, and route map reading skills
• Vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting
• Time management
• Customer service
• Communication skills

Writing a driver job description

A thoughtful job description is important in finding qualified driver candidates. A driver job description includes a compelling summary of the role, a detailed list of duties and responsibilities, and the required and preferred skills for the position.

Keywords to include in your driver job description: 

• Driving
• Driver
• Courier
• Delivery
• Chauffeur
• CDL
• Route

Interviewing driver candidates

Ask meaningful questions to gain insight into a driving job candidate’s experience, character and personality traits, and specialized training in order to find a focused, dedicated driver who can improve efficiencies and productivity. 

Topics for driver interview questions: 

• Driver’s license and driving record
• Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations
• Driving experience
• Maintaining documentation, such as route and vehicle maintenance logs
• Customer interaction
• Manual dexterity
• Heavy lifting and carrying

See our list of interview questions for more examples.