In recent years, the USA has faced a shortage of truck drivers, which has led many employers to need the services of foreign truck drivers.
These US employers are willing to sponsor work visas that could bring foreign truck drivers into the country. So, if you’re looking to move to the US to work as a truck driver, read on as we reveal everything you need to know about truck driving jobs in the USA with visa sponsorships.
Why the U.S. Needs More Truck Drivers and Willing to Sponsor Work Visas
The U.S. has faced a persistent shortage of truck drivers for years, impacting supply chains and raising transportation costs. The rapid growth of e-commerce and logistical demands has only increased this need. According to the American Trucking Association (ATA), the industry currently needs tens of thousands of drivers, and this gap is expected to grow in the coming years. As a result, U.S. trucking companies are increasingly open to hiring foreign drivers to fill this gap and are willing to sponsor visas to bring in qualified international drivers.
With benefits like competitive pay, job stability, and the opportunity to travel across the U.S., truck driving jobs in America appeal to many foreign drivers who have the right experience and skills.
Types of U.S. Work Visas Available for Truck Drivers
To legally work as a truck driver in the U.S., foreign nationals generally need sponsorship from an employer. There are two main types of visas used for truck driving jobs:
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H-2B Visa (Temporary Non-Agricultural Worker Visa)
This visa allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers for brief or seasonal work when not enough domestic workers are available. The H-2B visa is standard in industries with seasonal peaks, such as trucking companies that experience high demand during certain times of the year.
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EB-3 Visa (Employment-Based Immigrant Visa)
This visa suits workers seeking a more permanent position in the U.S. The EB-3 category is for skilled workers, professionals, and other workers, including truck drivers. This visa allows drivers to work full-time in the U.S. indefinitely and provides a path to obtaining a green card.
Each visa has specific requirements, and both involve a multi-step process that requires sponsorship by a U.S. employer. While the H-2B visa is generally faster, the EB-3 visa offers a more permanent work solution for drivers interested in long-term employment in the U.S.
Requirements and Skills for Truck Driving Jobs in the U.S.
International truck drivers hoping to work in the U.S. must meet specific qualifications and skills, which we are going to mention below:
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Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
To drive large trucks in the U.S., a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is typically required. Some states may allow foreign CDLs to be converted, but most international drivers must complete a U.S. CDL training program and pass both a written and driving test to obtain a valid CDL.
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Basic Qualifications
Generally, drivers must be at least 21 years old for interstate driving, pass a medical examination, and have a clean driving record. Many U.S. companies also prefer drivers with at least a few years of experience handling heavy vehicles.
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English Proficiency
Understanding and communicating in English is essential for safe driving and handling paperwork. Drivers must be able to read road signs, communicate with dispatchers, and understand safety regulations.
These requirements ensure that drivers have the skills and knowledge to operate safely on U.S. roads, which is essential for visa application.
Top U.S. Companies That Offer Truck Driving Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Take a look at some of the top US trucking companies that offer truck driving jobs with visa sponsorships:
1 Schneider National
Schneider National is one of the largest trucking and logistics companies in the U.S., offering a wide range of services from long-haul trucking to supply chain management. It is based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and operates nationwide.
Schneider sponsors H-2B visas for seasonal drivers and occasionally sponsors EB-3 visas for permanent roles. The company typically hires for long-haul and regional driving positions.
2 C.R. England
C.R. England, headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, specializes in refrigerated transport and is one of the oldest trucking companies in the U.S. It frequently hires for long-haul, regional, and dedicated routes.
C.R. England has sponsored H-2B visas, especially during peak seasonal periods. They also offer in-house CDL training programs for those who need to obtain a U.S. CDL.
3 Swift Transportation
Swift Transportation, headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, operates one of the largest fleets of trucks in North America, providing plenty of driving opportunities nationwide.
Swift has sponsored both H-2B and EB-3 visas, focusing on recruiting long-haul drivers who can handle high-mileage routes.
4 Werner Enterprises
Werner Enterprises is based in Omaha, Nebraska, and offers transportation and logistics services throughout the U.S. They have a solid reputation for hiring experienced drivers.
5 XPO Logistics
Last but not least on our list is XPO Logistics. The Connecticut-based trucking and logistics company is known for sponsoring work visas for foreign truck drivers.
Steps to Apply for a U.S. Truck Driving Job with Visa Sponsorship
The following is a step-by-step guide for landing a visa-sponsored truck driving job in the USA.
Step 1. Prepare a Strong Resume
Highlight your driving experience, any certifications, and prior work with large vehicles. If applicable, emphasize your safety record and ability to handle long-haul routes.
Step 2. Research Companies and Openings
Look for U.S. trucking companies that have previously sponsored visas for foreign drivers. Use job boards, networking platforms, and recruitment agencies to identify open positions.
Step 3. Apply through Recruitment Agencies
Many U.S. companies use recruitment agencies to find international drivers. These agencies can help you connect with visa-sponsoring employers and guide you through the visa application process.
Step 4. Prepare for Visa Interviews
Visa interviews may include questions about your experience, commitment to the role, and willingness to work within the U.S. trucking regulations. Be prepared to explain why you want to work in the U.S., highlight any specialized skills you bring, and discuss your understanding of U.S. road safety regulations.
Step 5. Consider International Job Boards
Websites like MyVisaJobs and TruckingJobNow frequently list openings from U.S. companies looking for international drivers and provide insights on visa sponsorship opportunities.
