bond required prior to being hired

[movingmanmike]

I have applied for a commercial truck driving job in NJ but, because I had an old misdemeanor on my record, I am being told that I will be hired only if I become bonded.

1) Is this legal that they are requiring me to purchase a bond to become an hourly paid truck driver?
2) What type of bond would I need as most of the bonds I have read about apply to businesses or contractors?

Thanks in advance.

[Admin]

Often times, people will tell you to get "bonded" as a solution for guarantees that bonding companies can not or will not make. It is very likely that you will not be able to find a company willing to write this bond, as I don't think bonding companies are going to have interest in it.

1) That would be something you would have to verify with an attorney, but I don't see why not.

2) Here is where the problem comes into play. Do your new employers know what they want the bond to guarantee? Do they have specific language drawn up as to what it is guaranteeing? Have they decided on an amount? There are numerous problems with their request. As stated above, even if they do figure out answers to all of these questions, you will have a hard time finding a surety willing to back the guarantee.

[masterofthe]

I have applied for a commercial truck driving job in NJ but, because I had an old misdemeanor on my record, I am being told that I will be hired only if I become bonded.

1) Is this legal that they are requiring me to purchase a bond to become an hourly paid truck driver?
2) What type of bond would I need as most of the bonds I have read about apply to businesses or contractors?

Thanks in advance.

I never knew this regulation existed regarding bonds. thank you very much for the tip.

BTW, here in my country, you can apply for any commercial truck driving job even without requirements at all...except for a professional driver's license.