The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) defines an owner-operator as a  business owner who owns their own tractor and in some circumstances their own trailer or trailers. Some fast facts—most owner-operators were also company truck drivers who have been in the trucking industry for an average of 26 years. If you are considering a career move from truck driver to owner-operator jobs, here is an overview of the steps you need to take to make this happen successfully.