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Become an Owner Operator – The Certification Process is Easy!

Once you decide that you want to become an owner operator, decided on your truck and which contract option you prefer, it’s time to complete the Certification Questionnaire; this is the first step in contracting a tractor with Dart.

Our recruiters can usually complete your Questionnaire over the phone within a few minutes.  If you prefer, you can complete the Questionnaire online, or we can mail it or fax it to you -- whichever is most convenient to you.

Driver certification standards

We are looking for skilled, courteous and professional contractors who are looking to provide shippers with high quality service.  We pride ourselves on outstanding customer service, stability, and longevity, so we look for those same characteristics during the certification process.

Qualifications for driver certification

  • 12 months of over-the-road tractor trailer experience within the past three years
  • At least 21 years old
  • Pass DOT physical and drug screen
  • Valid Class A CDL
  • Acceptable driving record with no recent major accidents
  • Stable work history
  • No large gaps in employment without acceptable documentation
  • Reviewed:  criminal convictions
 

Tractor standards

Chances are, your tractor meets Dart’s equipment standards.  Dart has no age limits on tractors, but they must be safe, reliable, and able to haul our customers’ freight.

  • Pass DOT inspection
  • 20,000 pounds or less, full of fuel
  • Able to scale 45,500 pounds
  • Fifth wheel height 48" maximum
  • 2 hood mirrors (may be installed at initial inspection)
  • Wired for ABS trailer brakes (pigtail has hot center pin)
  • Wheel base 265 or shorter
  • 13' 4" minimum stack height

Completing the Contracting Process

New Contractor Information Sessions are scheduled every week so that you can get up to speed quickly on operating your business profitably and safely.  Our goal is a smooth, seamless experience from the moment you pick up the phone to speak with a recruiter, to the time you complete the contracting process with Dart.

  Information Sessions are held in the following locations:

  • Minneapolis/ St. Paul, MN
  • Dallas, TX
  • Atlanta, GA
  • Louisville, KY

You will have the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and skill with a thorough road test, and learn “best practice” safety techniques and hours of service compliance.

You’ll also learn the ins and outs of running a profitable business with Dart.  Find out the best times to settle and how to maximize your discounts on the Advantage® Fuel Network.

Featured Owner Operator

"If you’re going to do something, you have to research it first,” Chris Fick says. He wanted to know everything about being an owner operator before making the transition from company driver to owning his own trucking business. 

Read More

True Stories

Hear it from real Dart owner operators – Dart is a place where you can operate a successful trucking company. Find out more

Get Started

It’s your dream – let’s make it happen!  The first step is completing the Certification Questionnaire. Apply now

Have Questions

1 (888) 870-1230

Please call or email us for more information.  Sign up to receive email updates for opportunities in your area.