If you’re just starting out in Euro Truck Simulator 2, you might be wondering exactly how to play, how to make progress, and how to avoid the most common beginner mistakes. Whether you’re a total newcomer or someone who wants to restart your journey in ETS2, this guide has you covered.
From the best first steps to long-term strategies for growing your trucking company, I’ll show you everything you need to know about how to play Euro Truck Simulator 2 and become a successful virtual trucker.
What Is Euro Truck Simulator 2
Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) is a highly detailed truck driving simulation developed by SCS Software. It allows players to explore Europe while delivering cargo across different countries, from the UK and Germany to Italy and beyond. The game features:
- Realistic truck models
- Authentic road networks
- Business management mechanics
- Weather, fatigue, and fuel systems
ETS2 is not just about driving—it’s about planning, precision, and building a transport empire. Let’s look at the best ways to learn how to play Euro Truck Simulator 2 as a beginner.
Complete the Tutorial
When you launch ETS2 for the first time, the game offers a basic tutorial to teach you the controls and UI. Don’t skip it. It covers:
- Basic truck handling
- Attaching and delivering trailers
- Using GPS navigation
- Parking for delivery
Mastering these early lessons is key to progressing smoothly and learning the mechanics of the game.
Set Up Your Controls Correctly
One of the first decisions in how to play Euro Truck Simulator 2 is how you want to control your truck. ETS2 supports:
- Keyboard and mouse
- Gamepad
- Steering wheels and pedals (like Logitech G29, Thrustmaster, etc)
For beginners, a gamepad provides a good balance between realism and accessibility. But no matter what setup you choose, be sure to:
- Calibrate your inputs
- Map essential controls (lights, wipers, indicators, cruise control)
- Adjust steering sensitivity and dead zones
These tweaks will make your driving experience more comfortable and accurate.
Start with Quick Jobs
As a beginner, you won’t own a truck yet, so your best option is to take Quick Jobs. These are contracts offered by logistics companies that lend you a truck for the delivery. This mode includes:
- No fuel costs
- No truck maintenance fees
- Decent beginner earnings
Focus on short-to-medium distance jobs to start building experience and capital. It’s a safe way to explore how to play Euro Truck Simulator 2 without financial risk.
Learn to Read the GPS and Road Signs
Navigation is a huge part of the ETS2 experience. Your GPS shows:
- Your delivery route
- Estimated time of arrival
- Speed limits
- Rest stops and gas stations
But GPS isn’t perfect—real road signs and traffic rules matter. Learn to:
- Pay attention to roundabouts and priority roads
- Recognize speed changes based on country zones
- Obey red lights and warning signs
Getting penalized for violations reduces your profit and can damage your truck or cargo.
Follow Traffic Laws and Drive Safely
Safety and legality are essential if you want to progress and grow your company. You’ll encounter realistic traffic systems across Europe. Always:
- Use turn signals when changing lanes or turning
- Obey traffic lights and speed limits
- Avoid collisions and lane violations
- Slow down for sharp turns and exit ramps
Breaking laws can result in fines and poor delivery scores. Safe driving is a cornerstone of how to play Euro Truck Simulator 2 the right way.
Master Parking and Maneuvering
Each delivery ends with a parking challenge. You can:
- Park manually for full experience points
- Choose easy parking for partial XP
- Skip parking (no XP gain)
While manual parking is difficult at first, it’s worth practicing. XP gained helps you level up faster, unlock better-paying jobs, and improve your reputation.
Understand the Fatigue and Fuel Systems
ETS2 includes realistic fatigue and fuel mechanics that affect gameplay:
- Drivers must rest every 11 hours or risk falling asleep at the wheel
- Fuel must be refilled at gas stations along the route
- Both are shown in the GPS and dashboard
Plan your deliveries around fuel stops and rest areas to avoid emergencies and fines.
Level Up and Choose Skills Strategically
Each delivery earns experience points. As you level up, you’ll unlock skill points that let you specialize. Choose upgrades based on your style:
- Long Distance – Unlock longer, high-paying jobs
- High Value Cargo – Increase job difficulty and earnings
- Fragile Cargo – For careful and skilled drivers
- Just-In-Time Delivery – Bonus XP for urgency
- Eco Driving – Save fuel and increase efficiency
Strategic skill upgrades help you progress faster and make more money long-term.
Save Up and Buy Your First Truck
Once you’ve completed enough Quick Jobs and saved money (or taken a small loan), you’ll want to buy your own truck. This unlocks the Freight Market, allowing you to:
- Choose better jobs
- Customize your truck
- Build your personal fleet
Good beginner trucks in ETS2 include:
- DAF XF
- MAN TGX
- Renault T
- Iveco Stralis
These offer good reliability and fuel efficiency, making them perfect for your early career.
Customize and Upgrade Your Truck
Owning your own truck opens up customization options. As you learn how to play Euro Truck Simulator 2, you’ll discover that performance matters. You can upgrade:
- Engine and transmission
- Tires and suspension
- Interior and cabin accessories
- Lights, mirrors, and horns
Cosmetics add immersion, but functional upgrades help with heavier loads and tougher routes.
Expand Your Business with Garages and Drivers
ETS2 isn’t just about driving—it’s also about managing a successful transport company. As you earn more, you can:
- Buy garages in new cities
- Hire AI drivers to generate passive income
- Buy trucks for your staff
- Manage routes and profitability
This transforms the game from truck simulator to business simulator, giving long-term motivation and goals.
Explore New Countries and DLCs
The base game includes a chunk of Central Europe, but SCS Software offers expansive map DLCs that add variety and realism. Popular expansions include:
- Going East (Poland, Hungary)
- Scandinavia (Norway, Sweden, Denmark)
- Italia, Iberia, and Road to the Black Sea
- West Balkans and Beyond the Baltic
Each new region offers unique scenery, road systems, cargo types, and cultural vibes. They’re a great way to keep learning how to play Euro Truck Simulator 2 in diverse settings.
Use Mods to Enhance the Game
ETS2 has a massive modding community. After mastering the basics, consider adding:
- Real company logos and trailers
- Weather and lighting mods
- Enhanced AI traffic
- Realistic sound packs
- Map mods for added countries
Always back up your game before installing mods and use trusted sources like the Steam Workshop or popular modding sites.
Tips for Long Haul Driving
Once you’re comfortable with short deliveries, try longer hauls. To succeed:
- Use cruise control to reduce fatigue
- Take breaks at rest areas
- Listen to online radio stations during trips
- Keep snacks or water near your desk (for you, not the driver!)
- Drive during in-game daytime for better visibility
Long hauls offer more money and challenge but require focus and planning.
