BRENTWOOD, TENN. — Conversion Interactive Agency, in partnership with People. Data. Analytics (PDA), are releasing the results of its Spring 2026 Truck Driver Survey.
“This is one of the most competitive recruiting environments the trucking industry has faced in years,” said Brian Johnston, Conversion president. “Drivers are evaluating carriers differently today. Pay still matters, but consistency, communication, respect, and home time are now major deciding factors. Fleets that move quickly, communicate clearly, and deliver on promises will have a major recruiting advantage.”
The survey reveals record-high job-seeking activity among professional drivers and growing pressure on fleets to improve communication, stability, and driver experience.
Job Hunting on the Rise
According to the survey, 58.1% of drivers reported they are currently looking for a new truck driving job, up from 46.8% in Spring 2025. This marks the highest level of active job-seeking recorded since Conversion and PDA began tracking driver sentiment more than five years ago.
When asked why they are looking for a new job, drivers identified improved home time (63.7%) and predictable or higher pay (61.6%) as the leading motivators. Nearly 40% cited consistent miles, while 28% said they feel disrespected at their current company.
Growing Concern on Driver Retention
The findings also highlight growing retention concerns across the industry. When asked what issue would most likely cause them to leave their current carrier within the next three months, drivers ranked pay inconsistency first (27.1%), followed by lack of respect or appreciation (20.7%).
“Drivers are making it clear that retention is about more than compensation,” said Scott Dismuke, vice president of operations, PDA. “Communication, trust, operational consistency and respect all directly impact whether drivers stay or leave. Fleets that actively improve the day-to-day driver experience will be in a much stronger position moving forward.”
Carrier Demographic Changes
The survey also points to a growing demographic challenge for carriers. Over half of all respondents were age 46 or older, reinforcing long-term concerns around driver replacement as retirements continue to outpace new entrants into the industry.
Impact of AI
At the same time, the survey found that technology is beginning to reshape driver recruiting behavior. Nearly one in four drivers reported using AI-powered tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude or Perplexity during their job search process. Additionally, 47.9% said they would consider using an AI-powered recruiting agent that could help them find and apply for jobs automatically.
“AI is beginning to influence driver recruiting much faster than many fleets realize,” Johnston said. “Drivers are increasingly using AI-powered search tools to research carriers, compare opportunities, and gather information before they ever speak with a recruiter. Fleets that strengthen their digital visibility, online reputation and implement AI into their recruiting processes will have a significant competitive advantage.”
Growing Support for CDL Enforcement and ELP
The report also found strong support for increased federal CDL enforcement and English proficiency standards, with 73% of drivers strongly supporting stricter enforcement measures.
Key Findings for Carriers
- 58.1% of drivers are currently looking for a new driving job — the highest level recorded in survey history.
- Home time and predictable pay remain the top reasons drivers seek new opportunities.
- Nearly one in four drivers already use AI tools during the job search process.
- Pay inconsistency and lack of respect are the leading short-term turnover risks.
- Over half of surveyed drivers are age 46 or older, reinforcing long-term labor concerns.
Access the full Spring 2026 Truck Driver Survey report here.
Dana Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has been featured in multiple newspapers, books and magazines across the globe. She is currently based in the Atlanta, Georgia, area.
