FAQ
Delivery Driver FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a delivery driver.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a delivery driver: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about delivery drivers
Do delivery drivers need a CDL?
Most don’t; vans and small trucks need a regular license.
Is delivery driving hard?
It’s physically demanding with many stops, but training is short.
Can delivery driving lead to better jobs?
Yes. Many drivers move into CDL driving, dispatch or supervision.
How much does a delivery driver make?
The median annual wage for delivery drivers was $44,860 ($21.57 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $30,800 and the highest 10% earned more than $80,310.
How long does it take to become a delivery driver?
Most people need about 1–2 weeks of training. A high school diploma is typical. Drivers need a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. Employers provide training on routes, scanners and safety, usually in a few days.
Do you need a degree to be a delivery driver?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is delivery driver a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +6.3% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 107,200 openings each year. Upsides include fast hiring with little training; a common challenge is that physically demanding with many stops.
What skills does a delivery driver need?
Key technical skills include safe driving, route planning, package scanning, and loading and organizing cargo. Employers also value time management, customer courtesy, and reliability.
What certifications are available for delivery drivers?
Common credentials include Valid driver’s license, DOT medical card, Defensive driving course, and CDL Class B. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Delivery Driver fit quiz, compare with Truck Driver, or explore Delivery Driver training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 53-3033 (Light truck drivers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Light truck drivers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.