Delivery drivers collect and deliver goods for clients. These goods can be anything from food to furniture and everything in between. A delivery driver may deliver to businesses or the general public.
People are usually happy to see a delivery person, a job perk. When was the last time a delivery driver gave you bad news? Usually, your driver brings something yummy, like a pizza or a package from Amazon.
As a delivery driver, you make positive things happen, and if that sounds like something you want to do, we can help. Next, we’ll give you the job description of a delivery driver so you can understand if the career is for you.

Overview: Duties & Skills
Delivery drivers’ daily activities depend on the vehicles they drive, the routes they travel, and the supplies they manage.
Delivery drivers may transport packages or load and unload large trucks. On the other hand, they may pick up and deliver food orders. A delivery driver could be required to do a wide range of things.
Here are some of the most critical competencies a delivery driver should have.
- A legal driver’s license and a commercial driver’s license in some cases.
- Awareness about how to properly treat items such as food or chemical products.
- Familiarity with the operation of navigation systems.
- Time management to ensure that deliveries are carried out on time.
- Staying healthy when driving requires outstanding vision and hand-eye coordination.
- Physical capability for heavy freight loading and unloading.
Requirements
If you plan to drive large vehicles, you’ll also need a valid driver’s license, a regular state-issued license, or a special CDL. Each state has its own CDL specifications, so before you hit the road, be sure to find out what your own state needs.
Typically, delivery drivers only need a high school diploma or GED and a driver’s license. However, requirements may differ from business to business.
For instance, drivers must comply with certain safety procedures and best practices when transporting hazardous goods.
Average Salary
Salaries for delivery drivers vary widely from company to company. Tips may also supplement their hourly wage, which can significantly increase their daily wages.
Delivery drivers can have part-time or full-time schedules, including work during holidays or late-night shifts.
- Average pay in the United States: $16.81 per hour.
- Wages can be as low as $7.25 per hour to as high as $31.40 per hour.
Training
To become a delivery driver, you must have a valid driver’s license. In the United States, your license must be issued in your current state.
Most employers strongly desire or require a clean license. However, some firms will also accept a permit that has been clean for two or three years.
To drive specialized vehicles, you will also require additional endorsements beyond your standard driver’s license. These include a large vehicle commercial driver’s License (CDL) or a HAZMAT endorsement for hazardous material transport.
Also Read: How to Start a Career as a Truck Driver
Certifications
Although additional certifications are typically unnecessary, they can be beneficial and allow you to land a job faster.
Your driving credential would be a plus since driving is the most essential part of the work.
NSC-Certified Defensive Driving Courses
The National Safety Council provides courses in the U.S. that teach drivers to identify and respond appropriately to potentially dangerous driving circumstances and conditions. NSC-certified teachers lead these classes.
Online Driving Safety Courses
To learn defensive driving skills, you can take online courses. These courses offer the bonus of allowing you to complete them from home so that you can fit them into your schedule easily.
Make sure your state accredits you for the course before you enroll.

Conclusion
Delivery drivers spend most of their time inside their vehicles on the road. However, getting out of that vehicle in hot, cold, or inclement weather is also part of the job, so be aware.
Over a day, delivery drivers will often communicate with dozens of people. So not only is driving and safety knowledge important, but also excellent interpersonal skills.