How To Become A Pilot Car Driver?

Have you ever seen cars that drive in front of and behind large trucks with an oversized load? Those cars are called pilot cars, and their job is to escort those large loads safely to their destination. Believe it or not, pilot car driving is a viable occupation that many people don't know about. Are you curious about how to become one but don't know where to start? Don't worry, we've done all the research for you.

Becoming a pilot car driver is actually pretty straightforward. While the requirements can vary by state, there are a few general requirements that apply universally. In general, to become a pilot car driver, one must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Hold a valid driver license
• Have taken a defensive driving course or hold a class A, B, or C commercial driver license
• Carry liability insurance
• Speak English

When these requirements are met, consult with your state's Department of Transportation to learn the rules and regulations surrounding pilot car operation in the state. Then, start networking with trucking companies in your area and begin building your resume.

Do you still have some questions about pilot car driving? Are you curious how much pilot car drivers make? Keep reading for an in-depth look at what all this occupation has to offer.

What Is A Pilot Car Driver?

Simply put, a pilot car driver operates a vehicle that serves as an escort for oversized loads and convoys of large vehicles. The kinds of loads these drivers escort typically include things like mobile homes, wind turbine blades, and large construction vehicles and equipment.

Pilot cars go ahead of large trucks to alert drivers that a large load is following close behind. They also survey the road ahead and alert the truck driver via radio of any obstacles or hazards that might affect the route. Another pilot car driver usually trails behind the oversized load to alert drivers approaching from the rear of the large load up ahead.

Pilot cars are outfitted with bright signs, flashing lights, and flags that help draw attention to the oversized load or vehicle convoy. In fact, there are typically rules regarding equipment pilot car drivers must have in or on their vehicles at all times. In this occupation, safety is the number one priority.

Pilot cars play an important role in the safety of all motorists sharing the road with an oversized load. After all, there's a lot of risk involved in transporting these massive loads, so mistakes can be severe. Pilot car drivers help make sure that things like lane changes, bridge crossings, and turns are executed safely so that the load makes it to its destination safely.

Pilot car drivers are contracted out by trucking and shipping companies on a job-by-job basis to escort these large trucks.

How Much Does A Pilot Car Driver Make?

Pilot car drivers are generally paid per mile driven. Pay might vary, but you can expect to make around $200 for the first 100 to 150 miles and then $1.30 to $1.50 for each subsequent mile driven. This equates to roughly $34,000 per year on average. But due to the fact that they are paid per miles driven, there's really no income cap as long as there's work available. A pilot car driver can essentially work as much or as little as they choose, and their income will reflect that.

Something else to factor into the income equation is that pilot car drivers often use their personal vehicles for work. This means that they pay for fuel, maintenance, and repairs out of pocket. Big repairs and other unforeseen automotive-related expenses can add up. But on the bright side, pilot car drivers can claim these expenses and their mileage driven for a tax deduction since they're self-employed.

Pros And Cons Of Being A Pilot Car Driver

Like any occupation, being a pilot car driver has its benefits and drawbacks. We'll discuss these pros and cons so you can get a better idea of what to expect from this occupation.

Pros

• Drivers have a good deal of control over their income. As long as there is work to do, they can earn a good income.
• The job can be rewarding. Pilot car drivers can feel a sense of satisfaction after helping escort a large load to its destination safely.
• The job is very straightforward. Pilot car drivers simply drive and alert the truck driver of any potential hazards along the route.
• Pilot car drivers can take assignments at their own discretion. If a certain job requires more driving than they'd like, they don't have to take it.
• If drivers choose to participate in long-haul trips, they get the opportunity to see parts of the country that they would otherwise never get to see.

Cons

• Like we mentioned earlier, pilot car drivers often have to drive their personal vehicles for work. This means that they will spend more money on fuel, maintenance, and repairs than they otherwise would. In this occupation, vehicles rack up miles very quickly.
• Pilot car drivers are sitting down nearly all the time when working. Sitting down for long periods of time has been proven to have adverse health effects. Sitting down for long periods of time can lead to things like deep vein thrombosis and heart disease. Remaining in a seated position for hours on end isn't good for the back and hips either.

What States Require Pilot Car Certification?

The vast majority of states don't require special certifications to operate a pilot car. These are the states that do require special certification:

• Arizona
• Colorado
• Florida
• Georgia
• Louisiana
• Minnesota
• Nevada
• New Mexico
• New York
• Oklahoma
• Virginia
• Washington

If you're interested in becoming a pilot car driver in one of these states, check with your local Department of Transportation for more information.

We hope this guide has helped you better understand the ins and outs of pilot car driving. Before you go, be sure to check out these other guides -

What Is A High-Profile Vehicle?

What Is Negligent Driving?

What Is A Fleet Vehicle?