Becoming a Costco and Xpress truck driver: Paid training - no experience required
Ages 21+ / Great benefits / Flexible location / Annual salary between $45,000 and $82,000
If you are interested in a stable truck driver career in the United States without experience, then becoming a driver for Costco or U.S. Xpress is a good choice. Both companies offer competitive salaries, great benefits, and best of all, for new drivers, company-paid CDL training programs to help you kick-start your truck driving career.
Benefits of Driving for Costco and U.S. Xpress
| Benefit Category | Costco Truck Drivers | U.S. Xpress Truck Drivers |
|---|---|---|
| Pay | $28.50–$32.00/hour; $72,000–$144,000/year | Competitive starting pay with multiple raises |
| Work Schedule | Local/regional, home daily | Dedicated & OTR options, flexible home time |
| Health Benefits | Medical, dental, vision, low cost | Medical, dental, vision, disability |
| Retirement | 401(k) with company match | 401(k) with company match |
| Paid Time Off | PTO, holidays, sick leave | PTO, parental leave, holidays |
| Training & Orientation | No direct Costco training; paid training via carriers | Paid orientation, tuition reimbursement |
| Equipment | Well-maintained trucks | Newer fleet (~18 months average age) |
| Additional Perks | Lunch provided, employee assistance programs | College education, pet insurance, wellness |
How to Become a Truck Driver with No Experience?
Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements
You must be 21 years or older to drive across state lines (required for most long-haul jobs).
Obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A or at least a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) if you want to enter a paid training program.
Have a clean driving record and pass a DOT physical exam.
For foreigners, securing a work visa such as the H-2B Visa is essential to legally work as a truck driver in the US.
Step 2: Apply for Company-Paid CDL Training Programs
Both Costco’s dedicated freight carriers and U.S. Xpress offer paid CDL training, allowing you to earn while you learn:
Schneider National operates dedicated Costco freight routes and provides a paid CDL apprenticeship program lasting 5-6 weeks. Trainees receive weekly pay ($1,400–$1,700), paid orientation, and benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) matching. After training, drivers can earn up to $98,500 annually with sign-on bonuses up to $5,000 for experienced drivers or $2,000 for new drivers. (Source: Schneider Jobs)
U.S. Xpress offers paid training with up to $7,000 in tuition reimbursement, paid orientation, and guaranteed pay raises during the first year. Drivers can choose between dedicated or OTR routes and drive newer trucks averaging 18 months old. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) matching. (Source: U.S. Xpress)
Step 3: Submit Your Application and Prepare for Hiring
For Costco truck driver applications, you typically apply through Costco’s website or directly to their contracted carriers like Schneider or Crete Carrier. Local depots may also be contacted to get on the hiring radar. (Source: TruckersReport & Reddit)
For U.S. Xpress, you can apply on their official website under student or experienced driver positions. Orientation is paid and is your first step to joining their team. (Source: U.S. Xpress)
Foreigners should ensure their employer sponsors the proper work visa (usually H-2B) and meet all licensing requirements before applying. (Source: VisaPlace)
Step 4: Training and On-the-Job Experience
During paid CDL training, you’ll learn vehicle operation, safety checks, and regulations, with hands-on driving under supervision.
After training, you’ll be placed on dedicated routes, often delivering Costco freight or driving for Xpress customers.
Understand the Basics of the Trucking Industry
Before diving in, it’s important to know what you’re getting into. Truck driving isn’t just about sitting in a big rig—it’s a critical part of the U.S. economy. Drivers transport everything from groceries to construction materials. Jobs range from local deliveries (driving within a specific area) to long-haul routes (cross-country trips).
Pay: Entry-level drivers typically earn between 45,000and60,000 annually, with potential for overtime and bonuses. Experienced drivers can make $70,000 or more. Requirements: You’ll need a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and the ability to pass medical and drug tests.
Finding Driver Jobs and Application Tips
Search carrier websites like Schneider, U.S. Xpress, Crete Carrier, and Roehl for paid training and dedicated Costco/Xpress routes.
Conclusion
Becoming a truck driver for Costco or U.S. Xpress is a promising career path, especially with the availability of company-paid CDL training that removes the financial barrier for beginners. Whether you want to work local routes with daily home time or explore long-haul opportunities, these companies offer competitive pay, strong benefits, and a supportive work environment. Foreigners interested in this career should secure the proper visa and licensing, then apply to these carriers’ training programs to launch their trucking careers in the US.