Surprising Perks of Being a CDL Driver (It’s Not Just the Pay)

When people think about becoming a truck driver, the first benefit that usually comes to mind is the paycheck—and yes, it’s a good one. Many new CDL drivers start out making $55,990* or more, with plenty of opportunity to earn even more over time.

But money isn’t the only reason people are choosing trucking in 2025.

In fact, for many 160 Driving Academy graduates, the real rewards go beyond the paycheck. Let’s take a look at some surprising perks of being a CDL driver that might just convince you this is more than just a job—it’s a lifestyle worth living.