What Is the ATA Truck Rodeo?
The National Truck Driving Championships — often called the “truck rodeo” or the “Super Bowl of Safety” — is the premier competition for professional truck drivers in America. Here’s everything you need to know.
History & Overview
The National Truck Driving Championships (NTDC) is organized by the American Trucking Associations and has been running for decades, celebrating the very best in professional driving. It is the trucking industry’s most prestigious competition.
Every year, state trucking associations across the country hold their own truck driving championships. The top drivers from each state earn a spot at the national competition, where they go head to head against the best in the country.
The Three Components of Competition
Every truck rodeo competitor is scored across three events. Combined, they total 480 possible points.
Written Test
40 questions based on the Facts for Drivers book. Covers DOT/FMCSA regulations, safety procedures, and industry knowledge. Mix of multiple choice and true/false.
80 points maxPre-Trip Inspection
Find 15 planted defects on a competition vehicle within a limited time. Tests your real-world vehicle inspection skills and attention to detail.
100 points maxDriving Skills Course
Navigate 6 precision obstacles: offset alley, right turn, straight line backing, alley dock, serpentine, and more. Tests complete vehicle control.
300 points maxGrand Champion Selection
The overall Grand Champion isn’t simply the driver with the most total points. Top drivers are ranked across five equally weighted criteria:
- Written test score
- Pre-trip inspection score
- Semifinal driving skills score
- Final driving skills score
- Overall combined score
The written test is 1 of 5 equally weighted criteria for Grand Champion selection — making it worth far more than its 80-point face value suggests. A weak written test score can knock a great driver out of championship contention.
Vehicle Classes
Drivers compete in the class that matches their daily driving assignment. There are nine classes at the national championship:
2026 Championship Info
The 2026 National Truck Driving Championships will be held in Pittsburgh, PA. State competitions run from March through July to determine who qualifies.
- March 20–21 — Texas State Championship
- March 28 — Arizona State Championship
- April — California State Championship
- May — Oregon State Championship
- June — Michigan State Championship
- August 11–14 — National Championship in Pittsburgh, PA
Companies That Compete
The biggest names in trucking sponsor drivers for state and national championships. FedEx alone sent 174 drivers to the 2025 nationals. Many companies cover entry fees, travel, and lodging for their drivers.
Competing in a truck rodeo is a badge of honor in the industry — it shows your company that you’re among the safest, most skilled drivers on the road.
How to Prepare
Whether you’re competing for the first time or going back for another run, preparation makes the difference.
- Read the Facts for Drivers book cover to cover — the entire written test is based on it
- Practice your pre-trip inspection until it’s second nature
- Get as much seat time as you can on precision maneuvers
- Use a study tool like Win The Rodeo for the written test — 1,250+ practice questions from Facts for Drivers
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I qualify for the national truck rodeo?
Win or place highly at your state’s truck driving championship. Each state trucking association holds annual competitions, typically between March and July. Contact your state trucking association for entry requirements and dates.
Who can compete in a truck rodeo?
Professional CDL holders employed by carrier companies. Your employer typically sponsors your participation and may cover entry fees and travel. Many of the largest carriers in the country actively sponsor drivers for competition.
When is the 2026 national truck driving championship?
August 11–14, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. State competitions run from March through July to determine qualifiers.
How important is the written test?
Very important. While the written test is worth 80 of 480 total points, it is one of five equally weighted criteria used to select the Grand Champion — making it 20% of the championship formula. Top competitors consistently score near-perfect on the written test.
Is there a study app for the truck rodeo written test?
Yes. Win The Rodeo has 1,250+ practice questions covering all 7 categories from the Facts for Drivers book. Flashcards, multiple choice quizzes, and full practice tests for a one-time fee of $6.99.
Preparing for Your Next Championship?
Study for the written test with 1,250+ practice questions on your phone. Flashcards, quizzes, and 10 full practice tests from Facts for Drivers.
Start Studying — $6.99 One-TimeLearn more about Win The Rodeo →