How to Become a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Texas
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Texas earn a median salary of $53,070/year, which is 8% below the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers takes home approximately $2,311/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers can afford in Texas
Becoming a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Texas
Meet education requirements
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers positions in Texas typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for heavy and tractor-trailer truck driverss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 212,700 heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers. The highest concentrations are in Midland and Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington.
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midland | $58K | $27.75/hr | 4,680 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $57K | $27.51/hr | 59,200 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $56K | $26.88/hr | 10,330 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $56K | $26.68/hr | 49,210 |
| Odessa | $55K | $26.5/hr | 3,280 |
| Killeen-Temple | $53K | $25.71/hr | 1,880 |
| Abilene | $52K | $24.85/hr | 1,200 |
| Sherman-Denison | $51K | $24.69/hr | 720 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $51K | $24.64/hr | 2,390 |
| Texarkana | $50K | $24.19/hr | 1,250 |
| Laredo | $50K | $23.92/hr | 4,920 |
| Amarillo | $50K | $23.91/hr | 2,300 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $50K | $23.84/hr | 15,020 |
| Longview | $49K | $23.61/hr | 2,390 |
| Tyler | $49K | $23.58/hr | 1,570 |
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers salary range in Texas
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers make in Texas?▼
The median heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers salary in Texas is $53,070 per year ($25.51/hr). This is 8% below the national median of $57,440. Salaries range from $36,620 to $78,470.
What are the requirements to become a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Texas?▼
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers positions in Texas typically require No formal educational credential. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $53,070, a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Texas would take home approximately $3,723/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 37.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Texas are Midland ($57,730), Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington ($57,220), Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos ($55,900). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers?▼
No, Texas does not have a state income tax. This means heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.