Ready to lock in 5,500 miles a week, weekly direct‑deposit pay, and a $1,000 sign‑on bonus? Follow this guide and you’ll have your contractor application filed in less than an hour.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
First, pull together the paperwork FedEx’s contractor network demands. You’ll need a valid CDL‑A, a recent DOT medical card, a government‑issued ID, and proof of residence such as a utility bill.
The Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) must be current and show the “A” class endorsement. If your license is about to expire, renew it before you start the application, otherwise the process stalls.
Next, secure your medical certification. The DOT requires a physical exam every two years. Keep the original card handy; a scanned copy works for the online upload.
For identity, a driver’s license or passport will do. Pair it with a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement that shows your name and a California address. The Rialto terminal only accepts applicants who live within the Inland Empire region.
Finally, gather any supporting documents that demonstrate eligibility for any applicable driver incentive: a recent FedEx driver pay stub or a letter confirming you’re an active FedEx driver.
Having these items ready saves you from back‑and‑forth emails that can drag the timeline out.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Log in to the online application portal at CDL Jobs Inland Empire. The site walks you through a short profile, then asks for the documents you collected in Step 1.
Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your ID. Mismatched names cause the system to reject your upload.
Upload each document as a PDF or high‑resolution image. The portal accepts files up to 5 MB. If a file is too large, compress it before uploading.
When you reach the compliance section, the system checks your credentials against FMCSA driver qualification rules. This automatic verification speeds up approval, but it also flags missing items instantly.
Below is a quick view of the fields you’ll fill out:
| Field | What to Enter |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Exactly as on your driver’s license |
| Active email you check daily | |
| CDL Number | License number from the front of your CDL‑A |
| Medical Card Expiry | MM/DD/YYYY format |
| Proof of Residence | Utility bill or lease PDF |
Once the form is complete, click “Submit.” You’ll see a confirmation screen that says your application is under review. The system typically sends an email within 24 hours confirming receipt.
After submission, a recruiter will reach out to schedule a short orientation at the Rialto terminal. Keep your calendar open for a 30‑minute slot; the faster you complete orientation, the sooner you start driving.
Step 3: Submit, Follow Up, and Prepare for On‑boarding
Now that you’ve hit “Submit,” it’s time to watch your inbox. Within a day, a recruiter will email a link to the orientation agenda and a PDF of the driver handbook.
before you walk into the Rialto terminal. It covers safety policies, load‑securement standards, and the exact mileage expectations for the two dedicated team runs that total 5,500 miles each week.
On the day of orientation, bring the original copies of all documents you uploaded. The recruiter will verify each one in person and take a photo of your CDL for the company’s records.
After you sign the full‑time W‑2 contract, you’ll receive your employee badge and a schedule for your first team run. The schedule is posted on an internal shared platform, so you can see who you’ll be paired with and plan your home time.
Pay attention to the weekly direct‑deposit calendar. FedEx contractors deposit pay every Friday, which makes budgeting easier than waiting for a bi‑weekly check.
Finally, remember that the $1,000 sign‑on bonus only applies to drivers who are already active with FedEx. If you’re new, you’ll still enjoy stable linehaul work and weekly pay, and the bonus will become available after you complete 30 days of service.
FAQ
What documents are absolutely required?
You need a valid CDL‑A, a current DOT medical card, a government ID, and proof of California residence. Those four items satisfy the FedEx contractor compliance checklist.
How long does the online application take?
The online form takes about 15‑20 minutes if you have all documents ready. Uploading files and double‑checking entries adds a few minutes, but you can finish in under an hour.
Do I need to be a current FedEx driver for the sign‑on bonus?
Yes, a sign‑on bonus may be available for drivers who are already active with FedEx. New hires still get weekly pay and stable routes, and the bonus becomes available after 30 days of service.
Will I be classified as an employee or contractor?
When you join through the ISP model, you are a W‑2 employee of the ISP, not an independent contractor. That means payroll taxes are withheld and you’re eligible for company benefits.
Can I work a team route instead of a solo run?
Yes. The contractor offers both dedicated team runs (which split mileage and hours) and a single unassigned route that lets you run solo if you prefer more flexibility.
Conclusion
Our top pick for getting on the road fast is the CDL Jobs Inland Empire portal, it simplifies paperwork, verifies compliance, and connects you with FedEx’s most reliable team routes. Start your application today, gather the four key documents, and you’ll be driving stable linehaul miles within a week.