Texas, with its booming economy, expansive highways, and strong logistics industry, is a prime location for truck drivers seeking high-paying opportunities. Whether you’re new to trucking or a seasoned pro, the Lone Star State offers some of the highest paying trucking jobs in the U.S.
In this article, we explore the top-paying trucking careers in Texas, what qualifications are required, and how you can land one of these lucrative roles.
💰 Why Texas Is a Trucking Hotspot
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Home to major freight corridors (I-10, I-35, I-45)
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Large oil and gas industry (requires hazmat hauling)
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Border access for international trade with Mexico
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High demand for freight movement due to population growth
With these advantages, it’s no surprise that Texas-based trucking jobs consistently offer above-average salaries.
🏆 1. Oil Field and Frac Sand Haulers
Average Salary: $90,000 – $130,000+
Top Areas: Midland, Odessa, Laredo, Eagle Ford Shale region
Job Type: Short to medium hauls with long hours and remote locations
Why It Pays:
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Long hours = more overtime pay
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Working in remote and rugged conditions
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Specialized knowledge of oil field operations
Requirements:
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Class A CDL
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Endorsements: Hazmat and Tanker (X) often preferred
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Experience with heavy-duty equipment and off-road driving
🛢️ 2. Hazmat Tanker Driver
Average Salary: $80,000 – $110,000+
Typical Loads: Chemicals, petroleum, fuel
Why It Pays: Handling hazardous materials involves higher risk and responsibility
Key Cities Hiring: Houston, Beaumont, Corpus Christi (major refinery hubs)
Qualifications:
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CDL with Hazmat and Tanker endorsements
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Clean driving and safety record
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Completion of specialized hazmat training
🏬 3. Private Fleet Driver (e.g., Walmart, H-E-B)
Average Salary: $90,000 – $115,000
Job Description: Company-employed drivers who haul freight for a single business
Benefits:
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Predictable schedules
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Great benefits (health, retirement, bonuses)
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Newer equipment and high safety standards
Best For: Experienced drivers with clean records
🚚 4. Oversized Load / Heavy Equipment Hauler
Average Salary: $85,000 – $140,000
Job Duties: Transporting oversized machinery, wind turbines, or construction equipment
Why It Pays:
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Requires permits, escorts, and specialized routing
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Fewer drivers qualified to handle oversized cargo
Where in Texas: Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, and Austin are major hubs for this work
Skills Needed:
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Patience and advanced driving skills
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Class A CDL and experience with heavy haul trailers
👥 5. Team Drivers (Expedited Freight)
Average Combined Salary: $100,000 – $180,000 per team
What It Is: Two drivers alternate shifts to cover more ground without stopping
Common Routes: Texas to California, Texas to East Coast
Ideal For: Spouses, siblings, or partners who want to earn together
Why It Pays: Freight is usually time-sensitive, meaning faster delivery = better pay
🧾 What You Need to Land High-Paying Trucking Jobs in Texas
✅ 1. CDL License (Class A)
Most top-paying jobs require a Class A Commercial Driver’s License.
✅ 2. Endorsements Boost Income
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H: Hazmat
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N: Tanker
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X: Combo Hazmat + Tanker
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T: Doubles and Triples
✅ 3. Experience
The best-paying employers often require 2–5 years of experience with a clean driving record.
✅ 4. Location Matters
Jobs in oil fields or near ports (e.g., Houston, Laredo) usually pay more due to demand and complexity.
🔧 Owner-Operators in Texas: High Risk, High Reward
Potential Gross Revenue: $150,000 – $300,000+
If you own your truck or lease one, Texas is one of the best states for owner-operators due to:
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High freight volume
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Access to ports and international trade
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Lower diesel taxes compared to other states
Keep in Mind:
You cover expenses like fuel, insurance, repairs, and taxes — but profit potential is big if managed well.
🧠 Pro Tips for Boosting Trucking Income in Texas
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Work with niche markets (e.g., chemicals, wind energy, oil tools)
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Take night shifts or weekend loads for bonus pay
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Stay updated with industry tech (ELDs, load apps, fuel tracking)
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Consider companies offering sign-on or referral bonuses
🏁 Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for the highest paying trucking jobs in Texas, focus on oil field hauling, hazmat, private fleets, and specialized freight. These positions demand skill, responsibility, and often certifications — but they reward well.
