With National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW) 2025 just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to honor the millions of professional truck drivers who keep America moving. The week-long celebration, held this year from September 14 to 20, also highlights the dedication, hard work, and sacrifices these highway heroes make every day.
From the industries along the Mississippi River in Baton Rouge to the businesses in Shreveport, these professionals move approximately 72% of all freight tonnage in the United States. They ensure our Louisiana communities have everything they need to thrive. Whether you’re planning your future, seeking a stable career, or ready for a significant change, there has never been a better time to join this vital profession.
Why We Must Celebrate National Truck Driver Appreciation Week
The importance of this week becomes clear when you ask a straightforward question: What would happen if trucks stopped for just one week? The impact would be immediate and severe. Within 24 hours, hospitals would face shortages of life-saving medical supplies. By the 72-hour mark, grocery store shelves would be bare and gas stations would have no fuel. Professional drivers are the linchpin of our modern lives, delivering the reliability and commitment our country depends on, especially after facing unprecedented supply chain challenges in recent years.
Read more about what would happen if truckers stopped driving in our blog here.
Why NTDAW Matters to Professional Drivers
For the 3.5 million drivers on the road, NTDAW is more than just a week of recognition. It’s a moment when their hard work, long hours away from family, and commitment to safety are seen and valued by the public. A simple “thank you” or a thoughtful driver appreciation message goes a long way in acknowledging the sacrifices they make to keep our country moving. This week reminds them that they are respected professionals in a noble and essential career.
Truck drivers are the backbone of America, and National Truck Driver Appreciation Week gives us a chance to thank them for their dedication. In CDL training, we see the commitment it takes to enter this profession, and this week reminds both new and veteran drivers how vital they are to our communities and our economy.
-Josh Woodard, DDA Baton Rouge and West Monroe Campus Director
How the Public Can Show Appreciation to Truck Drivers
Everyone is invited to participate in National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. Here are some driver appreciation ideas to show your support:
- On the Road: Give trucks plenty of space, use your signals, and be patient. A friendly wave and a safe driving environment are among the best truck driver appreciation gifts you can give
- At Rest Areas or Gas Stations: A simple “thank you” can make a driver’s day. If you’re looking for how to start a conversation with a truck driver, just ask them about their journey
- Share a Kind Message: A thoughtful driver appreciation message can make a real difference. Here are a few impactful ideas for a card, social media, or to say in person:
- “Your dedication on the long haul makes life better for all of us back home. Thank you for all you do.”
- “Happy Truck Driver Appreciation Week! Wishing you safe travels, open roads, and a reminder of how much your hard work matters.”
- “To all the professional drivers out there: You are the engines that move America forward. Thank you for your commitment and sacrifice.”
- For Families and Businesses: Consider putting together goodie bags for truck drivers with snacks, water, and notes of appreciation. Need ideas? Check out how Paradigm Digital Group did it in this video
Leading trucking companies show their gratitude in significant ways. DDA’s carrier partners, including Stevens Transport, Werner Enterprises, TMC, and Schneider National, are known for hosting appreciation events, providing catered meals, giving away prizes, and offering special bonuses to their drivers during this week.
How DDA Shows Appreciation Year-Round
At Diesel Driving Academy, our commitment to drivers lasts far beyond one week. We show our appreciation by investing in their success at every stage of their journey.
- For Future Drivers: As one of the top accredited truck driving schools in Louisiana, we provide clear guidance on financial aid and a transparent admissions process
- For Present Drivers (Current Students): We provide industry-recognized behind-the-wheel CDL training from experienced instructors who are dedicated to student safety and success
- For Past Drivers (Our Graduates): We offer robust CDL job placement assistance, connecting our alums with top companies that are actively hiring CDL students and graduates from DDA
The State of the Trucking Industry: Trends and Opportunities for 2025
Is the trucking industry growing? Absolutely. The industry generates over $875 billion in revenue annually and supports over 5% of all full-time jobs in America. The outlook for 2025 is optimistic, with opportunities for entry-level drivers.
Addressing the Driver Shortage
The ongoing truck driver shortage creates unprecedented demand for new, qualified drivers. This means greater job security and negotiating power for those entering the field.
Competitive Compensation
Truck drivers with less than a year of experience can earn up to $65,000, while experienced drivers in Louisiana can earn an average base salary of $90,174.
H2: Ready for a Career That Delivers More?
Why do people become truck drivers as a career? Many are seeking more stability, better pay, and a profession they can be proud of. Trucking offers a direct route to all three.
- Tired of underemployment or the factory floor? A career in trucking means no more uncertainty about shift work. It’s a path to higher earning potential and the freedom of the open road
- Ready to leave physically demanding jobs like construction? Professional driving leverages your skill and focus, not your back. It offers a respected, long-term career where experience is valued
- Looking for a path to independence? For the younger demographic, trucking provides a fast track to a high-paying career without a four-year degree and associated debt
What is the best part about being a truck driver?
This is a job that would never lay you off, and the money is outstanding. If I had to say it, the only problem is that I didn’t start doing this 20 years ago!
– Frank Gaines, DDA Graduate
H2: Your Path to a Rewarding Trucking Career
Earning your Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is more than just passing a test. It’s the start of a career that can take you anywhere. With proper training, you’ll have the skills and credentials to qualify for a wide range of opportunities across industries. Whether you want steady regional routes or the adventure of cross-country hauls, your CDL can open the door to a variety of opportunities.
Some of the most common career paths for our graduates include:
- Long-Haul Truck Driver: Travel across states or even coast-to-coast, delivering goods that keep businesses and households running
- Heavy Equipment Hauler: Transport oversized loads like construction equipment or machinery, often requiring specialized endorsements
- Hazmat Driver: Handle the transport of hazardous materials, with extra safety training and endorsements that often come with higher pay
- Flatbed Driver: Haul oversized or irregularly shaped freight that requires securement skills and attention to detail
- Refrigerated Transport Driver: Move perishable goods such as food and medical supplies, ensuring products reach their destination fresh and on time
And that’s just the beginning. With a Class A CDL, you can also explore careers in tanker driving, local delivery, specialized freight, and even step into management or training roles as your experience grows.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trucking Careers
How much do beginner truck drivers make? The national average salary for new drivers can be up to $65,000. While earnings vary, it remains one of the highest-paying entry-level careers available.
How much training does it take to become a truck driver? At Diesel Driving Academy, you can complete your professional ELDT-compliant CDL training in as few as four weeks.
What are the requirements to become a truck driver? Basic federal requirements include being at least 18 (21 for interstate travel), having a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record, passing a DOT physical examination, completing CDL training, and passing background checks.
Where can I get CDL training in Louisiana? DDA has campuses conveniently located in Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and West Monroe.
H2: Start Your Journey with Diesel Driving Academy
This National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, start your journey to become a highway hero.
These drivers improve our quality of life by dedicating themselves to safety and making every effort to deliver the things we need efficiently, professionally, and responsibly.
–Chris Spear, President and CEO, American Trucking Association
Ready to get on the road? Contact our admissions team at a Louisiana campus near you!