Just Got Your CDL? Here's How to Build Toward Laufer.
Just earned your CDL? Here is honest guidance on how to build the experience top carriers want, and how to set yourself up for a long-term career at Laufer once you qualify.
If you just earned your CDL, the most important thing you can do is land a first job that helps you build 12 to 18 months of clean, verifiable driving experience. Start with an entry-friendly carrier or a paid training program, drive safely, keep your logbook clean, and protect your record. That experience is what unlocks the better entry level CDL jobs, and it is what every top carrier, Laufer included, looks for when you are ready to move up.
Why most quality carriers want experience first
A roughly 18-month experience minimum is an industry norm at most established trucking companies — not a judgment about your ability. It comes down to three practical reasons:
- Insurance
Carrier insurance policies often require a verifiable driving history before a driver can be added to the policy.
- Safety record
Verifiable safe miles are how carriers manage risk to their drivers, their customers, and the public.
- Retention
Drivers who have already settled into the job tend to stay, which protects everyone involved in moving freight.
Treat the experience requirement as a normal step in the path, not a closed door.
How to build your first 18 months the right way
The CDL jobs no experience required hire from are usually the same ones that help you build the record higher-standard carriers want. Use that time deliberately.
Pick a first carrier that builds your record
Look for entry-friendly OTR or regional carriers, finishing programs, or paid trainee positions. Steady miles matter more than the perfect lane.
Protect your MVR and logbook
Drive the speed limit, plan your hours, pre-trip every time. A clean record is the single most valuable asset you build in year one.
Avoid preventable incidents
Small things — backing damage, log violations, missed pre-trips — close doors at better carriers. Slow down and do it right.
Add endorsements when they fit
Tanker, Hazmat, doubles/triples, or TWIC can broaden your options. Add them when they line up with the kind of freight you want to haul.
Keep your medical and DOT current
Lapses on your DOT physical or paperwork are common reasons applications stall. Stay ahead of renewal dates.
Track your verifiable miles
Save your pay stubs, settlement statements, and employment records. You will need them to verify experience when you apply elsewhere.
What Laufer looks for when you're ready
Laufer hires experienced drivers — once you have built your first 18 months, here is the kind of applicant we look for. Treat this as the standard to aim toward, not the door to knock on today.
- 18+ months of verifiable CDL-A experience
- Clean MVR with no major preventable incidents
- Current DOT physical and medical card
- Demonstrated safe-driving and on-time history
- Comfort with the equipment you'll be assigned
- Communication you can build a long career on
When you hit that mark, the roles you're working toward are listed on the Drive for Laufer page.
A pathway through WCTC
For Wisconsin-area grads, Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) is a respected source of CDL training, and Laufer has long-standing ties with the local technical-college community. Earning your CDL through a quality program is a sound first step on the path that eventually leads to carriers like Laufer.
Stay in touch with Laufer
We don't hire recent graduates, but we'd be glad to stay on your radar. Keep Laufer in mind while you build your first 18 months, and reach back out when you hit the experience mark — the roles you're working toward will be waiting.
Laufer requires a minimum of 18 months of verifiable CDL experience for all driving positions.