Are you eager to embark on a rewarding driving career with UPS but struggling to figure out how to become a UPS driver
Well, you’re not alone! People can find the hiring process confusing.
The good news is that, with our step-by-step article, applying to become a UPS driver can be pretty straightforward.
- Looking for Open UPS Driver Jobs?
- An Overview of Driving With UPS: A Primer
- What You’ll Need to Become a UPS Driver [& Associated Costs]
- Is it Hard to Become a UPS Driver?
- How to Become a UPS Driver in 7 Simple Steps
- Reasons to Consider Becoming a UPS Driver
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Similar Gigs to Check Out
- Wrapping Up
Looking for Open UPS Driver Jobs?
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Current Openings? Yes
How to Apply: Visit the link to our Job finder tool, search for your location, and apply. Simple!
An Overview of Driving With UPS: A Primer
For those who don’t know, UPS stands for United Parcel Service, an American multinational courier company. As you might have guessed, this company offers different jobs for delivering packages.
Generally, UPs drivers are responsible for receiving, transporting, and delivering customer packages. The delivery driver has to ensure all packages arrive safely and on time, among other responsibilities.
A typical day for a UPS delivery driver starts at a local UPS facility, where the company receives packages. The couriers then load the parcels on one of UPS’s iconic brown trucks.
From there, UPS truck drivers navigate a pre-determined route. While the job mainly revolves around driving, UPS delivery couriers are expected to interact with customers to deliver or pick up packages.
However, usually, a UPS driver helper accompanies the former and does most of the interaction with customers.
How Much Do UPS Drivers Make?
It’s hard to determine the exact compensation UPS drivers make since it varies depending on the position, working hours, and location.
However, generally, a UPS driver’s salary can be between $11 and $41, with an average of $20.62-$24.31, depending on the state.
Some of the highest-paying places include New York, Denver, and Chicago. You can expect the higher end of the range, around $42 per hour, after working four years as a full-time package delivery driver.
Of course, hourly and seasonal driver positions don’t get the same benefits as full-time.
The good news is that the job description usually includes the payment on the UPS website. That can be handy since it saves you the effort of going through the application process only to end up refusing the job because of the compensation.
What You’ll Need to Become a UPS Driver [& Associated Costs]
Becoming a UPS driver won’t cost much since the job doesn’t require owning a vehicle or a specific degree—a perk that makes it among the best gig jobs that are easy to land. On that note, here’s what you’ll need to become a UPS driver:
1. Education
Most UPS driving positions require a high school diploma or a GED. The former is generally free. As for the latter, most states charge $30 per subject and $36 in the case of online tests. However, it can cost less in some places.
2. Age Requirement and Physical Demands
You should be at least 21 years to apply for any driver position. Even package handlers need to be at least 21 years to work for UPS.
Aside from age, UPS delivery workers must meet certain physical requirements, such as lifting heavy packages (around 70 lbs.).
3. A Valid Driver’s License
It comes as no surprise that you need a valid driver’s license to work as a UPS truck driver.
Typically, a regular driver’s license would suffice for package delivery positions. The former can cost between $10 and $90, depending on the state. As for driving lessons, all-inclusive training packages usually range from $200 to $800.
That said, you’ll probably need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) if you want to work as a freight driver or a tractor-trailer driver.
Most schools charge between $3000-$5000 for truck driving classes. Aside from the lessons, you’ll need to pay for the license fees, medical exams, and driving tests.
Of course, you must have a clean driving record within the last three years of getting your license.
How Much Does it Cost to Become a UPS Driver?
Assuming that you’ve completed your high school diploma, it can cost you around $210-$900 to work as a UPS package delivery driver. You can expect to pay an extra $120-$150 for the GED.
As for CDL-requiring jobs, the total cost can range from $3000 to $10,000.
Is it Hard to Become a UPS Driver?
Landing a UPS driver job is generally easy. That’s especially true for entry-level seasonal job positions.
However, getting hired full-time is a different story. Usually, those positions are highly competitive. You need to be an experienced driver from previous work or have some seniority at UPS to get a full-time offer.
Aside from that, UPS is a promote-from-within culture. The company offers the job to seasonal delivery employees first before looking outside. For that reason, securing a permanent driver position at UPS can be challenging.
How Long Does it Take to Become a UPS Driver?
You’ll need to complete a probation period of 30 days, during which UPS workers undergo training for a week. As for full-time delivery driver positions, it can take several years.
How to Become a UPS Driver in 7 Simple Steps
To become a UPS driver, you need to apply for an open position, go through the application process, and finish the required training.
Here’s a detailed explanation of the hiring process:
Step 1: Visit the Company’s Website
To apply for a UPS driver position, all you do is visit their website. You’ll find various job categories; choose “Driver Jobs.” This action directs you to a page with all the open jobs for different driver positions.
You can filter the result by choosing the state and city you wish to work in. After you find your desired position, click “Apply Now.”
Step 2: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
All UPS’s job descriptions contain the role specifications and requirements. While the eligibility conditions can vary from one role to another, the company generally includes the following:
- Legal right to work in the USA
- Must be at least 21 years
- Valid driver’s license
- Able to drive manual transmissions
- Clean driving record during the last three years
- High physical stamina and can lift 70lbs
- Presentable, friendly, and can communicate in English
Step 3: Fill Out the Application
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can click on “Apply Now” or save the job for later. Fill out the necessary information on the online application form.
You can complete the former process online without visiting the facility for most UPS delivery driver positions. Make sure to create an account first before applying.
Step 4: Attend the Interview
You can expect an interview for driving positions within 1-2 weeks, depending on how long the background check takes. Warehouse worker and driver helper applicants can receive an offer within 25 minutes of submitting their applications.
Generally, the interview isn’t complex. You can expect typical questions about your past experiences and why you chose UPS.
Step 5: Pass the DOT Physical Exam
If all goes well, you’ll proceed with the DOT physical exam. You can register for the former through UPSters. The company pays for the test, and the results remain valid for 24 months.
Typically, a DOT physical exam scans for vision, neurological, hearing, and cardiovascular problems. You’ll provide a urine and blood sample in this medical examination.
Aside from that, the test includes a questionnaire about your medical and drug histories.
Step 6: Complete Integrad School
Once you pass the DOT test, you’ll attend integrad school, which is a full week of paid training. During the former, you’ll take different classes about delivering safely and efficiently.
You can also expect to do a mock delivery test, among other driving drills. The latter happens under the supervision of an instructor who gives you feedback.
Make sure to be attentive and take notes since new drivers are only hired after passing the test with a grade of 85%.
Step 7: Finish the 30-Day Probation
Completing the probation period is the last stage of the hiring process. The former is typically 30 working days. This stage is crucial since the company can immediately terminate your employment during this period.
Here are a couple of tips to help you pass this phase:
- Show up early or on time
- Make sure to adhere to their appearance guidelines and look presentable
- Learn the route and area
- Find a senior driver friend and ask them for any tips
- Try not to call in and be as efficient as you can
Reasons to Consider Becoming a UPS Driver
UPS offers some of the best driving jobs for several reasons. That includes compensation, among other benefits. Here are some of the perks of working as a UPS driver:
- High earning potential: UPS workers get paid weekly. Generally, senior positions receive above-average compensation. You can also receive a raise within 6-12 months from your hiring date.
- Benefits: A personal vehicle driver with UPS gets mileage reimbursement and a phone stipend. Aside from that, UPS offers health benefits, paid vacations, and chances to work overtime for all driving positions.
- Flexibility: UPS offers flexible working hours. You can make your schedule, choosing the days or time slots you like. That can make it suitable for students or those looking for a side hustle.
- Career advancement and training: As you know, UPS usually promotes from within the company, offering an opportunity for career advancement. They also provide training courses to increase your qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have some questions? Here are some of the common inquiries prospective UPS drivers can have:
Can You Make a Living As a UPS Driver?
Yes! You can make a living as a UPS driver, especially in permanent positions.
Typically, the former receives a total compensation package of $145,000 yearly. Even part-time workers can make between $30,000 and $40,000 in a year.
What Is UPS Top Pay?
UPS’s top payment for truck drivers is slightly above $100,000 a year. However, the highest salary varies depending on the state.
Similar Gigs to Check Out
Here are similar gigs to check out if you’re looking for other driving jobs:
- How to Become an Uber Eats Driver: You must be 19, own a car, and have a valid license. If you meet the requirements, submit your application on the app. You also need to pass the background check to start working with Uber.
- How to Become a DoorDash Driver: You should be 18, own a vehicle, and have a driver’s license. To work with DoorDash, download the app, finish your profile, and pass the background check. Then, choose your preferred payout method.
- How to Become an Uber Driver: You must meet the age and legal requirements, have one year of experience, and pass the background check. After passing the check, sign up on the app, provide the required documents, and check if your car is eligible.
Wrapping Up
As you can see, working as a UPS driver can open the door to a fulfilling career with numerous benefits.
While the former can be highly competitive, you can still land a delivery driver job at UPS. All you need to do is figure out how to become a UPS driver.
By following our guide, you can get one step closer to landing a driver’s position in this company. If you still have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment section!
