Armored Truck Driving Jobs: Salary and Career Facts
Research what it takes to become an armored truck driver. Learn about the training requirements, employment outlook and salary to find out if this is the career for you.
What Is an Armored Truck Driver?
Armored truck drivers operate vehicles that are used to transport valuable goods. Their cargo may include jewelry, data, cash or gold. Armored truck drivers are responsible for routine things, such as vehicle maintenance and cleanliness and updating any required logs of their pick ups and deliveries. They are also responsible for loading and unloading their cargo. They must follow established safety guidelines and follow the assigned routes for their deliveries, in addition to obeying all traffic laws.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Education Required</b></td><td> High school diploma or GED</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Training Required</b></td><td> On-the-job training</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Key Skills</b></td><td> Observation and decision-making skills, physical strength</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Licensure</b></td><td> A driver's license and firearms permit are required; state registration may also be necessary</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Growth (2020-2030)</b></td><td> 15% (for all security guards)*</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2021)</b></td><td> $50,000**</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Sources: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, **PayScale.com</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatEducationIsNeededToBeAnArmoredTruckDriver">What Education is Needed to Be an Armored Truck Driver?</h3><p>Postsecondary education, although useful for advancement, is not required for armored truck driving jobs. Employers usually give aspiring applicants arduous on-the-job training prior to having them begin their new jobs. Company training might encompass firearms use, public relations, first aid, report writing, weapons possession, and regulations regarding the use of force. Some states require continuous training in order to retain licensing. ASIS International, an association for security professionals, advocates annual re-training and firearms courses for armed security personnel.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatOtherQualificationsOrLicensingMightINeed">What Other Qualifications or Licensing Might I Need?</h3><p>Armored truck drivers must adhere to more exacting standards than unarmed security personnel. If you hope to be an armored truck driver it is important that you have no history of criminal activity and be of good moral character. To demonstrate that you meet these requirements, an extensive background check and be fingerprinting will be done. You must possess a driver's license and have good communication and observation skills. You should also be in good health and be in shape physically.
</p><p>As armed guards, armored truck drivers need licenses permitting them to carry firearms. Applicants must participate in classroom training programs and be at least 18 years old. Drug testing may be required. Additionally, you might apply for a special police officer certification so that you can make arrests under certain circumstances. ASIS International offers other voluntary certifications for security professionals, such as the Physical Security Professional and the Certified Protection Professional.
</p><h3 id="section---HowMuchCouldIEarn">How Much Could I Earn?</h3><p>According to <i>PayScale.com</i>, armored car guards and drivers earned a median salary of $50,000 as of 2021. Most of these security professionals made salaries ranging between $27,000 and $88,000 at that time.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatAreSomeRelatedAlternativeCareers">What Are Some Related Alternative Careers?</h3><p>Delivery drivers, security guards and chauffeurs are all professionals who have similarities to armored truck drivers. Delivery drivers pick up cargo and deliver it as assigned. They need a driver's license and a clean driving record. They also need to pass a background check and complete on-the-job training. Security guards are hired to protect an assigned client or location. They usually need a high school diploma and must complete on-the-job training. Armed security guards have additional training, including firearms training. Chauffeurs transport passengers. They need a driver's license, a clean driving record and a state or city operating license if required.</p>