The commercial transport industry has long been seen as a male-dominated space—but that perception is shifting. More women are stepping into truck driver roles and helping reshape the future of the sector.
Female truck driving jobs offer more than just a career—they bring strong earning potential, flexibility, and the independence that comes with life on the road. But despite these opportunities, women remain significantly underrepresented behind the wheel. In the UK, only around 1% of HGV drivers are female. In the U.S., that figure sits closer to 9.5%.
These numbers aren’t due to a lack of skill, interest, or ability—they’re the result of long-standing industry barriers. Yet the momentum is growing. Businesses are waking up to the fact that attracting more women into trucking isn’t just about fairness—it’s essential for addressing the industry’s urgent need for skilled, professional drivers.
Female truck drivers bring a lot to the table—and the numbers back it up
According to ATRI’s Crash Predictor Report, male drivers are 14% more likely than their female counterparts to be involved in a crash. The same report also shows men receive more violations, including for speeding, improper lane changes, and seatbelt infractions. Across multiple safety and compliance metrics, women consistently demonstrate safer driving behavior. From fewer regulatory violations to lower crash rates, female truck drivers contribute to safer, more compliant fleets.
At a time when the global driver shortage continues to strain fleets and supply chains, tapping into the female workforce is a logical next step. But the journey to the cab isn’t always straightforward.
Challenges facing female truck drivers
Outdated perceptions of trucking as a “man’s job” still deter women from even considering it as a viable career. Stereotypes are slow to change, and many young women simply don’t see themselves represented in recruitment ads or training materials.
Then there’s the training itself. Many schools operate on rigid schedules, making it difficult for women with caregiving responsibilities or other commitments to complete their licensing. Financial support, childcare access, and flexible class options are all areas that need improvement.
Even once licensed, practical challenges persist. Clean, safe rest stops with secure parking and adequate facilities can be hard to come by—especially for long-haul drivers. For female truckers, these aren’t just inconveniences—they can be genuine safety concerns.
And while progress is being made, harassment and discrimination remain ongoing issues. Too often, women report feeling isolated or unsupported on the job, with unclear reporting processes and limited recourse.
Balancing work and personal life is a challenge for many in the industry—but for women, it often comes with added complexity. While caregiving responsibilities can affect any driver, women are still more likely to cite them as a reason for leaving the profession. Long hours, unpredictable schedules, and extended time away from home make it difficult to maintain a healthy balance—especially without flexibility from employers.
Offering more adaptable route planning and scheduling options can make a real difference, helping to retain skilled drivers of all genders.
Positive momentum—and real change
While challenges persist, the industry is gaining momentum in the right direction. Organisations like Women in Trucking and ATA’s Women in Motion are leading from the front—advocating for practical policy changes, better working conditions, and more visible support networks. Their work is helping more women get the training they need, access meaningful mentorship, and build lasting careers on the road.
Forward-thinking employers are also making tangible changes. Take Atlas World Group—they reassessed their parental leave policies after recognising gaps in support. Now, with short-term disability cover for new mothers, extended parental leave for all new parents, and improved facilities for nursing, they’re sending a clear signal: the wellbeing of drivers matters.
Training schools and carriers are stepping up too. Flexible hours, route choices that accommodate family life, and strict zero-tolerance harassment policies all contribute to a more level playing field. Most importantly, these steps show that women aren’t just being invited into the industry—they’re given the tools and support needed to build lasting careers.
How technology can help women succeed in trucking
Progress in culture and policy is essential—but technology is also playing a critical role in creating a safer, more inclusive space for women in trucking.
Beyond the obvious safety benefits of increased visibility from 360° cameras for trucks and AI-powered hazard detection, tools like driver scoring and telematics can level the playing field. These systems measure performance based on hard data—such as safety, fuel efficiency, and compliance—rather than assumptions, bias, or seniority. That means drivers are assessed on what truly matters: how they drive.
For women entering a traditionally male-dominated industry, that transparency can be empowering. It shifts the focus from outdated perceptions to measurable outcomes—encouraging fairness, accountability, and respect across the board.
Some fleets are also adding gamification features into their safety programs—turning everyday driving into friendly, skill-based challenges. These tools boost engagement, promote self-improvement, and help newer drivers build confidence in their abilities. When technology supports growth and rewards good practice, it’s not just individual drivers who benefit—the entire fleet performs better.
Looking ahead
The future of trucking is driven by data, automation, and smarter systems—but people remain at its core. A stronger, more resilient industry starts by supporting those behind the wheel.
For women, that means removing barriers—offering fair access to training, flexible pathways into the profession, and a working environment built on safety and respect. It also means creating space for growth, leadership, and long-term success in a career where they’ve historically been overlooked.
Female truck driver jobs are no longer the exception—but there’s still work to do to make them truly equal. Companies that recognise this shift and act on it now will lead the way—not just in diversity, but in safety, retention, and performance.
Drive progress with CameraMatics
Looking to support your drivers—no matter who’s behind the wheel? CameraMatics’ smart fleet solutions can help create a safer, more inclusive environment for everyone. From AI-powered driver scores to real-time safety alerts and customisable training tools, we make it easier to support your team and build a performance-led culture that drives results.
Talk to us today about how our technology can help support female truck drivers—and power the future of your fleet.
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