The United States has a big shortage of truck drivers, and the COVID-19 pandemic made it worse. Because of this, U.S. trucking companies are now hiring more foreign drivers, including Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
If you are an experienced truck driver from the Philippines looking for better job opportunities, working in the U.S. could be a great choice. The following details serve as an introductory guide to how you can start a career in that field.
How to Get a U.S. Truck Driving Job as a Filipino Worker
For many OFWs, working in the U.S. means earning higher wages, enjoying better benefits, and getting the chance to become a permanent resident in the country. Trucking jobs are a great way to have stable work in the U.S, which means this is a great option for Filipinos who wish to give themselves and their families financial security.
Salary Expectations for Truck Drivers in the USA
The salary of truck drivers in the U.S. depends on experience, location, and type of freight. On average, here are the salary rates:
- Entry-level truck drivers: $45,000 – $60,000 per year
- Experienced truck drivers: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
- Long-haul or specialized truck drivers: $80,000 – $100,000+ per year
Aside from the basic pay, some companies also offer bonuses for safety, performance and for when you travel long distance.
Visa Options
There are three main visa options for Filipino truck drivers:
1. H-2B Visa
The H-2B visa allows U.S. companies to hire foreign workers for temporary jobs, usually for 9 to 12 months. This visa can be extended for up to three years if the employer still needs workers. Here’s the process:
- The U.S. trucking company must get a temporary labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor.
- The company must prove that no qualified U.S. workers are available.
- If approved, the employer files a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Once the petition is approved, the Filipino truck driver can apply for the H-2B visa at the nearest U.S. consulate.
To qualify, the job must meet one of these conditions:
- One-time need
- Peak season demand
- Seasonal work
- On-and-off demand
2. EB-3 Visa
Unlike the H-2B visa, the EB-3 visa offers permanent residency (green card) for truck drivers. This is a good option for OFWs who want to bring their families to the U.S. and stay long-term.
The process includes:
- The U.S. employer must get a Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) from the U.S. Department of Labor.
- They must prove that no U.S. workers are available for the job.
- The employer files an I-140 petition with USCIS.
- Once approved, the truck driver and their family can apply for an immigrant visa or adjust their status if they are already in the U.S.
3. E-2 Visa for Trucking Business Owners
This third option is for Filipino truck drivers who have the money and can start their own trucking business in the United States. The E-2 is an investor visa, but the Philippines is so far not on the list of countries eligible for this. One way to avail of this option is to get another nationality that qualifies for this visa.
How to get a U.S. Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
To legally drive trucks in the U.S., you must have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Once a truck driver enters the U.S. on an H-2B or EB-3 visa, they need to get a CDL. Here are the requirements and steps that they need to take:
- Meet Age and Residency Requirements – Most states require drivers to be at least 21 years old and have legal work authorization.
- Pass a Medical Exam – Truck drivers must complete a health checkup to ensure they are fit to drive.
- Get a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) – This requires passing a written test on traffic laws and truck operation.
- Complete CDL Training – Some states require truck drivers to complete a training program before taking the final driving test.
- Pass the CDL Skills Test – This includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and a road test.
Aside from these requirements, employers and state licensing agencies may have other specific requirements that one needs to comply.
Reliable Agencies and Companies That Sponsor Foreign Truck Drivers
Here are some U.S. trucking companies and agencies known for hiring foreign truck drivers:
- Midwest Motor Express – Sponsors EB-3 visas for qualified truck drivers.
- C.R. England – Provides training and job placement for international drivers.
- Werner Enterprises – Occasionally sponsors work visas for foreign truckers.
- H.O. Wolding – Offers visa sponsorship and has programs for international drivers.
- Trucking agencies like Driver Recruiting International and Drivers Unlimited specialize in helping foreign truck drivers find visa-sponsored jobs in the U.S.
Tips for OFWs Looking for Truck Driving Jobs in the USA
The following are some basic and practical tips to apply for truck driving jobs in the US.
- Look for recruitment agencies that specialize in hiring Filipino truck drivers or apply directly to companies that sponsor foreign workers.
- Make sure the employer is legitimate and experienced in processing work visas.
- and prepare for the CDL exam before arriving in the U.S. to speed up the licensing process.
- Employers may check your employment history and driving records.
- Before signing any contract, review the salary, benefits, and working conditions.
Filipino truck drivers that are looking for better opportunities should consider applying in the U.S. After all, the trucking industry in this huge country is booming. You can apply through one of 2 visas, the H-2B visa for temporary work, and the EB-3 visa for permanent residency. Perhaps the best way to work as a truck driver in the U.S. is to seek advice from an immigration expert or from a legitimate recruitment agency. You just have to be prepared and be knowledgeable with regards to these visa options. With a little effort and in no time, you will soon find yourself starting a trucking career in the U.S.