Career roadmap
How to Become a Highway Maintenance Worker
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a highway maintenance worker, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a highway maintenance worker: (1) finish high school, (2) get a CDL, (3) apply to a DOT or city, (4) complete training, (5) advance. Most people need about Months on the job. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a highway maintenance worker
Finish high school
Or GED.
Get a CDL
Often required.
Apply to a DOT or city
Entry.
Complete training
Equipment.
Advance
Crew leader.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical; a CDL is often required.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | Months on the job |
Certifications and licenses
- CDL: Often required.
- Flagger certification: Required for work zones.
- Chainsaw safety: Helpful.
- Pesticide applicator: Some roles.
Skills to build now
Start with snowplowing, pavement patching, and equipment operation, and practice reliability and safety awareness. Learning the highway maintenance worker vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Maintenance Worker: Entry.
- Equipment Operator: Operate.
- Crew Leader: Lead.
- Maintenance Supervisor: Lead.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Highway Maintenance Worker training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a highway maintenance worker?
Most people need about Months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical; a CDL is often required.
Do you need a degree to be a highway maintenance worker?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for highway maintenance workers?
Common credentials include CDL, Flagger certification, Chainsaw safety, and Pesticide applicator. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 47-4051 (Highway maintenance workers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Highway maintenance workers (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.