Overtime rules for truck drivers
Truck drivers covered by the Motor Carrier Act exemption are typically not entitled to federal overtime. However, many states require OT for drivers, and intrastate drivers may qualify.
- Industry: Transportation
- Average hourly rate (US): $26.50
- Average weekly hours: 50
Special rules for truck drivers
- Federal Motor Carrier Act exemption removes federal OT requirement for many drivers
- California requires OT for drivers regardless of MCA exemption
- Drivers crossing state lines fall under DOT hours-of-service rules instead
- Some carriers pay overtime voluntarily as a recruitment incentive
Are truck drivers entitled to overtime?
The answer depends on your specific job duties, salary level, and state. Under federal FLSA, most truck drivers are non-exempt and entitled to time-and-a-half pay for hours worked beyond 40 per week. Some categories — like senior-level or specifically exempt roles — may not qualify.
To determine your status, ask: Are you paid hourly, or do you earn at least $43,888/year on a salary basis? Do your job duties match the FLSA's exemption tests (executive, administrative, or professional)? If you're unsure, the calculator above will help estimate your OT pay assuming you're non-exempt.
How to calculate truck drivers' overtime pay
For most truck drivers working under federal FLSA rules:
- Identify your regular hourly rate. If salaried, divide your weekly salary by 40.
- Track all hours worked in the workweek. Include training, mandatory meetings, and any pre/post-shift duties.
- Subtract 40 to find OT hours. All hours over 40 are overtime.
- Multiply OT hours by your rate × 1.5. This is your overtime pay.
- Add regular pay (40 × rate) to OT pay for your gross weekly total.