Transport & Logistics

How to become a Dispatcher

From driver or no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

1–6 months

Typical pay

$42k–$58k

Starting from

Driver or no experience

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from driver or no experience and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   1–2 months

   Learn hours-of-service rules

   You cannot dispatch legally without knowing what a driver is allowed to do.

   Course that covers thisTruck Dispatching, Start a Freight Dispatch BusinessUdemy · around $19.99 →
2. 2

   Get comfortable with TMS software

   Load boards, tracking and rate confirmations.

   Course that covers thisProfessional Diploma in Logistics & Distribution ManagementUdemy · around $19.99 →
3. 3

   6–12 months

   Start on a small fleet

   Ten trucks will teach you more than a desk at a mega carrier.

4. ✓

   Destination

   Dispatcher

   Browse jobs now →

Course links are Udemy affiliate links. We earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you.