CDL-A Trainee Truck Driver | Paid Training Available | Des Moines, IA
About the job CDL-A Trainee Truck Driver | Paid Training Available | Des Moines, IACDL-A Trainee Truck Driver | Paid Training Available | Des Moines, IANo Experience Required Start Earning ImmediatelyIf you are ready to launch a long-term trucking career, our CDL-A trainee program serving drivers in and around the Des Moines, Iowa metro area offers paid training, one-on-one mentorship, and a direct path to a full-time solo driving position with consistent weekly income and nationwide freight.This program is built for new CDL-A holders and recent CDL school graduates who want stability, professional support, and real career growth not a short-term trainee seat.Pay BreakdownTraining Pay (First 46 Weeks): $650 per weekSolo Driver Pay After Upgrade: $1,000 to $1,400+ weeklyMileage Pay (Post-Training): $0.43-$0.51 CPM (based on experience)Stop Pay: $15 per stop once upgradedEquipment: Assigned late-model automatic tractor after solo qualificationDrivers are paid weekly, and most trainees transition to solo status quickly once training benchmarks are met. Route & Schedule DetailsOTR Schedule: 12 to 14 days out followed by a 34-hour home resetFreight Type: No-touch dry van freightLoad Types: Mix of drop & hook and live load/unloadRunning Area: 48-state OTR after trainingHome Base: Des Moines, IA metro regionThis position is designed to help new drivers gain real over-the-road experience while running consistent freight. Program RequirementsValid CDL-A license (recent graduates encouraged to apply)Willingness to run OTR for two consecutive weeksMust live within 200 miles of Des Moines, IACommitment to safety, reliability, and long-term career growthWho This Program Is ForThis CDL-A trainee position is ideal for drivers who:Recently completed CDL schoolAre looking for their first OTR driving opportunityWant paid training with structured mentorshipAre focused on building a long-term trucking career This Program Is NOT ForDrivers seeking local or home-daily positionsDrivers unwilling to run OTRDrivers looking for short-term or part-time work Clear expectations upfront help ensure success for both drivers and dispatch. Why This CDL-A Trainee Program WorksYou earn pay from day one, receive structured real-world training, and upgrade quickly into a solo role with consistent miles and income. This is a true career-start program, not a dead-end trainee seat.Once upgraded, drivers benefit from:Assigned equipmentPredictable dispatchNationwide freight availabilityOngoing support from experienced operations teamsWhat Happens After TrainingAfter completing the trainee phase, drivers are upgraded to a solo OTR position. Most drivers experience steady weekly miles and reliable income shortly after upgrading, with opportunities to continue advancing within the fleet.Now Hiring in the Greater Des Moines AreaAccepting CDL-A trainees from Des Moines and surrounding ZIP codes, including:50310, 50315, 50317, 50023, 50266If you are located in or near Des Moines and serious about starting a trucking career the right way, this program is built to help you succeed.Start Your CDL-A Career TodayWhen you reach out, include your name, ZIP code, and experience level so we can quickly confirm eligibility.