If you are interested in becoming a truck dispatcher that is highly sought after, then you may want to consider acquiring some of the relevant dispatcher certifications.
There are several certifications you can acquire as a truck dispatcher, and some of them include Certified Dispatcher designation, Certified Transportation Broker (CTB), Certified Logistics Associate (CLA), Freight Transportation Dispatcher Certification, and Transportation Management Certificate.
There are different requirements to get the truck dispatcher certifications listed above, but it is important to note that the processes and requirements are similar, and that is what we will discuss in this article.
Steps on How to Get a Truck Dispatcher Certification
Step One: Determine the Certification You Want
There are several options when it comes to truck dispatcher certifications. Some common options you have include Certified Dispatcher designation, Certified Transportation Broker (CTB), Certified Logistics Associate (CLA),
Freight Transportation Dispatcher Certification, and Transportation Management Certificate Certified Dispatcher offered by organizations like the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) or other similar certifications. So you need to first determine the certification to go for.
Step Two: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
The truth is that different truck dispatcher certifications require different eligibility requirements. As a matter of fact, some truck dispatcher certifications may require that the applicant have a certain level of industry experience or specific educational qualifications before they can qualify.
The bottom line is that you must make sure you meet the requirements before applying for the certification of your choice.
Step Three: Prepare for the Truck Dispatcher Certification Exam
You are expected to study the exam materials and topics that will be covered in the certification exam. Interestingly, there are several materials both online, and offline that you can access when preparing for truck dispatcher certification exams.
You are expected to cover areas such as load planning, routing, compliance with transportation regulations, and communication skills.
Step Four: Enroll in Relevant Training Programs
Some organizations and training centers offer courses that are specifically designed to prepare you for dispatcher certification exams.
These organizations work with different bodies that issue dispatcher certifications or related certifications. But generally, training programs for truck dispatcher certifications provide valuable knowledge that will give you an edge when writing the exams.
Step Five: Obtain the Required Study Materials
The next step you are expected to take is to acquire the required study materials, such as textbooks, online resources, or study guides, to help you prepare for the certification exam. Interestingly, all the study materials you need are usually provided by the certification-granting organization or from third-party sources both online and offline.
Step Six: Take The Practice Exams
You are expected to take the practice truck dispatcher certification exams. Doing this will help you become familiar with the format and types of questions you can expect on the actual certification exam. Some of the training programs and study guides out there usually provide practice exams you can take.
Step Seven: Register for the Exam
You can now go ahead and register for the certification exam through the certification-granting organization. You should pay the fees and don’t forget to bring along the necessary documentation to prove your eligibility before registering for the certification exam.
Step Eight: Write and Pass the Truck Dispatcher Certification Exam
After successfully registering for the truck dispatcher exam of your choice, you are expected to write and pass the exam. Just make sure that you are well-prepared and confident in your knowledge.
Note that the passing score and specific requirements for obtaining the certification may vary depending on the certification you are going for.
Step Nine: Maintain Your Certification
It is one thing to pass your truck dispatcher certification exam, but another kettle of fish to maintain your certification. This is so because some truck dispatcher certifications require periodic renewal and ongoing professional development to maintain your certified status.
You can read up on what it will take you to maintain your truck dispatcher certification, and be sure to fulfill any renewal requirements.
Step Ten: Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Lastly, once you have earned your truck dispatcher certification, you should not stop there, you should update your resume and professional profiles on LinkedIn to reflect your new qualifications.
This is necessary because one of the major reasons why you want to get a truck dispatcher certification is to grow your career as a truck dispatcher and the place to get openings is via LinkedIn and other job opening portals.