19 Best Driving Jobs For 18-Year-Olds: Earn up to $50,000 Yearly

Turning 18 comes with a lot of freedom—and for many, that includes the ability to hit the road and start making money.

Did you know the transportation industry is expected to grow by over 6% in the next decade, creating thousands of new driving jobs? Even more surprising, some delivery drivers and rideshare workers earn over $50,000 a year, making driving a solid option for young adults looking to start earning quickly.

So, if you’re 18 and ready to turn your driver’s license into a paycheck, you’re in the right place.

From food delivery and package courier gigs to unique opportunities you might not have considered, this guide covers the best driving jobs for young adults. Let’s dive in and find the perfect job to get you on the road to success!

19 Best Driving Jobs for 18-Year-Olds

1. Food delivery

As a food delivery driver, you’ll pick up meals from restaurants and deliver them to customers’ homes or offices. This role typically requires a valid driver’s license, a reliable vehicle, and the ability to navigate your delivery area efficiently.

You have the potential to earn a decent income. Many drivers report making between $15 to $25 per hour, including tips. Earnings can vary based on location, time of day, and delivery volume.

Popular platforms such as DoorDash and Uber Eats offer competitive pay and often enable you to control your work hours.

2. Newspaper Delivery

This role involves driving to various locations to deliver newspapers to subscribers. You typically start early in the morning, ensuring that papers reach customers before they wake up.

The job requires reliability and good time management skills. Delivery drivers can expect to earn around $10 to $20 per hour, depending on the region and the volume of papers delivered.

This position offers flexibility, making it suitable for students or those seeking part-time work.

3. Personal errands runner

As a personal errand runner, you can assist individuals with various tasks. Your responsibilities may include grocery shopping, picking up dry cleaning, or delivering items.

This role suits 18-year-olds with a valid driver’s license and a reliable vehicle. Earnings can vary based on your location and the complexity of the tasks.

On average, you might earn between $15 to $25 per hour. This allows you to schedule and choose assignments that fit your lifestyle, making it an appealing option for students or those seeking part-time work.

4. Florist Delivery

You’ll deliver floral arrangements to various locations, including homes, offices, and event venues.

This role often involves carefully handling flowers and ensuring they arrive in perfect condition. Strong time management skills are essential; you must follow a schedule and navigate efficiently.

Regarding earnings, florist delivery drivers can expect to make an average of $12 to $20 per hour, depending on the location and specific florist shop. Some positions may offer tips that can enhance your overall income.

5. U.S Postal Service driver

In this role, you will be responsible for efficiently and safely transporting mail and packages. This involves driving a postal vehicle, making deliveries, and handling all mail carefully.

To qualify, you must be at least 18 and possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record. Ideal candidates have two years of driving experience.

According to industry data, the average salary for USPS drivers is around $68,000 for those in late-career stages, with lower starting pay varying based on location and experience.

6. Grocery delivery person

You will directly transport groceries from stores or warehouses to customers’ homes in this role.

Tasks typically include picking up orders, loading groceries into your vehicle, and ensuring timely deliveries. You must follow safety guidelines and practice good customer service.

The requirements for this job are usually straightforward. Most companies require you to be at least 18 and possess a valid driver’s license. Some positions may ask for a clean driving record and proof of insurance.

Regarding earnings, grocery delivery drivers can expect an average salary of around $39,724 per year, depending on location and delivery volume. Many drivers also receive tips, which can boost your income considerably.

7. Caddie

Being a caddie is a fantastic option for 18-year-olds looking to enter the workforce. In this role, you’ll assist golfers by carrying their equipment, cleaning golf balls, and providing support throughout the game.

This position requires good communication skills and physical fitness, as you’ll be on your feet, walking the course.

Caddies can earn a substantial income, typically between $100 and $200 per round, depending on the golf course and their experience level.

On busier days, tips can significantly boost your earnings, making it possible to earn up to $1,500 in a single day during peak season. The flexibility of this job also allows you to work around other commitments.

8. Package Handler

As a package handler, you play a vital role in the logistics and transportation industry. Your primary responsibilities involve loading and unloading packages, scanning them for tracking, and ensuring they are sorted correctly for delivery.

This position often requires physical stamina and attention to detail, as you’ll move items of varying sizes throughout your work shift. Regarding earnings, package handlers typically make around $15 to $20 per hour, depending on the employer and location.

Companies like UPS and FedEx often hire 18-year-olds for these positions, providing a chance to gain valuable experience in a fast-paced environment. This role can be a solid stepping stone toward more advanced driving jobs.

9. Valet Parking Attendant

In this role, you will take guests’ vehicles, park them, and later retrieve them. This job requires strong customer service skills, as you will interact with customers directly and ensure their experience is pleasant.

To become a valet parking attendant, you must be 18 years old and have a clean driving record. You should be comfortable operating various vehicles, including manual and automatic transmissions.

The average pay for valet attendants ranges from $14 to $22.50 per hour, depending on the location and establishment. Some jobs also offer tips, which can significantly boost your earnings.

10. Mover

As a mover, you play a crucial role in the logistics industry. Your primary duty is transporting household items and office equipment from one location to another.

This job often requires physical labor, including lifting, loading, and unloading boxes and furniture. Driving a moving truck can make this an ideal position if you enjoy being active and on the road.

Movers can earn an average hourly wage of $15 to $20. Your pay may depend on experience, location, and whether you work for a moving company or operate independently.

Additionally, this role can provide valuable experience and skills that can be transferred to other driving or logistics jobs in the future.

11. Delivery Helper

A delivery helper plays a crucial role in assisting delivery drivers. Your primary responsibilities would include loading and unloading packages, ensuring items are safely transported, and helping to navigate to delivery locations.

This entry-level position offers a great way to gain experience in the logistics field while earning an income.

As an 18-year-old in this role, you can earn an average salary of around $43,209 per year, which can vary depending on location and company.

Requirements typically include being at least 18 and having a valid driver’s license. Good communication skills and a willingness to work as a part of a team are also essential to excel in this job.

12. Route Driver

As a route driver, you deliver goods to various locations within a set area. Your main tasks include loading the vehicle, following a designated route, and ensuring timely deliveries.

You typically need a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record to qualify for this position. Some employers may require a high school diploma or equivalent.

Route drivers can earn an average salary of $35,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on the industry and location. It’s a great way to gain driving experience and build a solid work history at 18.

13. Ride Sharing Service

Driving for a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft is a practical option for 18-year-olds. As a driver, you provide transportation to passengers using your vehicle. It’s a flexible job that allows you to set your hours.

To get started, you must meet specific requirements. Most companies require you to be at least 18 years old, hold a valid driver’s license, and have insurance. Vehicles must meet specific standards, including age and condition criteria.

On average, ride-sharing drivers earn between $15 to $25 per hour. Factors like location, time of day, and demand can affect earnings. Some drivers report earnings between $3 to $43 per hour, depending on various circumstances.

14. Local Delivery Driver

Becoming a local delivery driver is one of the best options for 18-year-olds seeking driving jobs.

This role usually involves transporting packages, groceries, or meals within a specific area. You’ll need a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and good time management skills to ensure timely deliveries.

Depending on the company and location, local delivery drivers can earn an average salary of around $30,000 to $40,000 annually. Many drivers also receive tips, which can increase your total income.

15. Truck Driver

As an 18-year-old, becoming a truck driver offers a unique opportunity to jump-start your career on the open road. This role involves transporting goods across various distances, ensuring timely and safe delivery.

You must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to drive large vehicles. Requirements typically include 18 years old, having a high school diploma or GED, and passing health and background checks.

Truck driving can be financially rewarding. First-year salaries average around $76,000, depending on the hauling type and location. Many companies offer competitive pay and benefits, as well as sign-on bonuses.

Moreover, gaining experience as an 18-year-old can open doors to higher-paying opportunities once you turn 21 and qualify for long-haul routes. This job provides financial stability and allows you to explore different areas while enjoying the freedom of the road.

16. Dump truck driver

As an 18-year-old, becoming a dump truck driver can be a solid choice for entry into the trucking industry. This role typically involves transporting materials like gravel, sand, or dirt to construction sites.

Since dump trucks are often classified as Class B vehicles, you can operate them without needing to be 21, a common requirement for Class A vehicles.

In terms of earnings, dump truck drivers can make a competitive salary. On average, you might earn anywhere from $30,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on your location and the specific employer.

Many companies also offer opportunities for overtime, further increasing your potential income.

17. Tow Truck Driver

In this role, you will assist stranded motorists, transport vehicles, and provide roadside support. It requires strong communication skills and the ability to assess situations quickly and safely.

To qualify, you need a valid driver’s license and, in some cases, a specialized tow truck certification. Experience with heavy machinery can be beneficial.

On average, tow truck drivers earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on location and experience. This job can also help you develop valuable customer service and vehicle maintenance skills.

18. Landscape Driver

As a landscape driver, you are crucial to maintaining outdoor spaces. Your responsibilities typically include transporting equipment, materials, and sometimes other team members to job sites.

This job often requires a valid driver’s license and a good driving record. Being organized and reliable helps ensure projects run smoothly.

Landscape drivers can earn around $18 to $20 per hour. Pay can vary based on location and experience, but this role offers a good entry point for those 18 and older.

Additionally, many landscape companies provide training, making it easier to develop skills on the job. This job offers valuable driving experience, allows you to work outdoors, and allows you to engage in diverse tasks.

19. Furniture Delivery

You will transport furniture from stores or warehouses to customers’ homes in this role. Your tasks may include loading and unloading items, ensuring their security during transport, and providing excellent customer service upon delivery.

Regarding earnings, furniture delivery drivers can make an average of $15 to $20 per hour, depending on the company and location. Some positions may also offer tips, which can enhance your income.

The job requires a valid driver’s license and a good driving record. Physical fitness is essential, as heavy lifting is often involved. This position can provide valuable skills for future career opportunities.

Final Thoughts on Best Driving Jobs for 18-Year-Olds

Exploring driving jobs at 18 can lead to many opportunities. These roles offer flexibility and valuable experience. These driving jobs help you develop vital skills, from customer service to time management.

Considering these options, consider what best suits your interests and lifestyle. Each position has its benefits and requirements, so choose wisely.

Whether you want a fun side gig or a full-time career, driving jobs offer a practical way to earn income while on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions