Delivery driver jobs in California: what to know
What delivery drivers do
Delivery drivers move packages, food, parts and supplies to homes and businesses. Some drive a van on a set route every day; others drive box trucks or tractor-trailers between warehouses, stores and ports. California's big cities, ports and distribution centers make driving one of the most common jobs in the state.
Which license do you need?
- Class C (regular driver's license): enough for most cars, cargo vans and many smaller box trucks.
- Class B commercial license (CDL): for heavier single vehicles like large box trucks and buses.
- Class A commercial license (CDL): for tractor-trailers and other combination vehicles.
For a CDL, you need to complete federal entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a registered training provider, hold a commercial learner's permit, pass knowledge and skills tests at the California DMV, and keep a valid medical certificate.
Types of driving jobs
- Van delivery driver: packages and parcels, often with many stops a day.
- Route driver: the same customers each week, such as food, uniforms or supplies.
- Local CDL driver: home every night, moving freight around a region.
- Port and drayage driver: containers between ports and warehouses.
- Driver helper: rides along and helps load and deliver. A good way to start.
What employers look for
- A clean driving record. Most employers check your DMV record.
- Being able to lift packages and get in and out of the vehicle all day.
- Using a phone or scanner app for routes and proof of delivery.
- Good customer service at the door.
How to get hired
- Order a copy of your DMV driving record so you know what employers will see.
- Start with van or route driving if you only have a Class C license.
- Look for employers that pay for CDL training if you want to move up.
- Read the listing carefully: employee jobs and independent contractor gigs have very different pay and costs.
Questions people ask
Is a CDL worth it?
For many drivers, yes. CDL jobs usually pay more and include local routes that get you home every night.
Can I drive with tickets on my record?
Some employers accept a few minor violations; others require a clean record. The listing or recruiter will tell you their rules.
Your pay and breaks in California
- Minimum wage: the statewide minimum is $16.90 an hour in 2026, and many cities set a higher local minimum. Some healthcare employers have their own, higher minimum wage schedule.
- Overtime: most hourly workers earn 1.5 times their pay after 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a week, and double pay after 12 hours in a day.
- Breaks: a 30-minute meal break when you work more than 5 hours, and a paid 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours worked (or major part of 4 hours).
- Pay in job posts: employers with 15 or more workers must include a pay range in their job posts, so check the listing before you apply.
Questions about pay or breaks? The California Labor Commissioner explains your rights and how to file a claim.
Related job guides
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- Warehouse jobs in California
- Forklift operator jobs in California
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