How Veterans Can Get a CDL

For veterans looking to transition from military service to a civilian career, commercial driving offers a dependable path. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has developed several programs tailored to help current and former service members, including National Guard and Reserve, obtain a CDL efficiently. Below is an overview of these programs, eligibility requirements, and the benefits they provide.

Eligibility Requirements

Military Skills Test Waiver Program

• Military Driving Experience: You must have held a military driver’s license and driven safely for at least two years.
• Clean Driving Record: Your record should have no disqualifications, suspensions, or license revocations.
• Timing: You must apply within one year before or after leaving a military position that required operating a commercial motor vehicle.

Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot Program (SDAP)

• Commercial License: You must already hold an intrastate CDL.
• Safety Record: Demonstrate a clean driving history and meet certain safety criteria.
• Apprenticeship Acceptance: Be approved by a participating motor carrier and complete all required training.

FMCSA Programs for Veterans

1. Military Skills Test Waiver Program

This program allows eligible service members or veterans to skip the CDL skills test entirely. Because every state participates, you’ll need to check your specific state’s CDL requirements and fill out its waiver application. More information can be found on the FMCSA website.

2. Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver)

When combined with the Military Skills Test Waiver, qualified service members can bypass both the skills and knowledge tests—essentially exchanging a valid military driver’s license for a CDL. You must still provide proof of a valid medical certificate. The FMCSA website provides a list of states that currently participate in this program.

3. Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot Program (SDAP)

Created to study the safety of allowing qualified drivers aged 18-20 with an intrastate CDL to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce, the SDAP places strict limits on vehicle types and cargo (e.g., no hazardous materials). If you meet the age and intrastate CDL requirements, you can apply through an approved motor carrier. Learn more at FMCSA’s SDAP webpage.

4. Commercial Motor Vehicle Operator Safety Training Grant Program

This program gives funding to educational institutions that train students—especially veterans and their spouses—to become commercial motor vehicle operators. These funds make CDL training more affordable or sometimes free. For more information and a list of participating schools, visit FMCSA’s grant program site.

How does it work for you?

• Use Your Military Experience: If you’ve been driving large vehicles in the military, you can translate that experience into a new, stable career.
• Nationwide Job Opportunities: Skilled truck and bus drivers are in high demand, so you’ll find work opportunities almost anywhere in the country.
• Potential Hiring Incentives: Many commercial carriers offer signing bonuses, higher starting pay, or other incentives to attract qualified drivers.
• Flexibility and Stability: Whether you choose to drive for a large transportation company or work independently, commercial driving can offer both autonomy and a reliable income.
• Compatibility With Reserve Service: If you’re still in the National Guard or Reserve, a commercial driving job can fit well alongside your ongoing service obligations.
• Gaining Relevant Skills: If you do not yet have military driving experience, you might consider changing your military occupational specialty to gain these valuable skills.

Necessary Steps

1. Check Your Eligibility: Determine which of the above programs you qualify for.
2. Visit Your State CDL Website: Each state may have specific procedures for applying the waivers.
3. Gather Required Documentation: Ensure your driving record and medical certificate are in order.
4. Apply and Begin Your Training: Whether through a skills test waiver, knowledge test waiver, or apprenticeship program, take the leap toward your CDL.

By leveraging the FMCSA’s military-focused programs, veterans and service members can capitalize on their existing skills and transition into a stable and rewarding career in commercial driving. Take advantage of these opportunities to turn your military driving experience into a civilian CDL and hit the road to a prosperous future.

Bloom Services

Here at Bloom Services, we are 100% OTR trucking. While you won’t find us on a virtual billboard in a simulator, we do offer newer trucks, and cover trailer and cargo liability. We do not pay based on mileage, rather we pay 80% gross load. This is beneficial for strong drivers with a decent work ethic, you will earn based on the actual load rather than mere miles. Our drivers average $3,000 plus a week take home pay after all expenses, like fuel, truck rent, etc. If you have Grit, and the endurance to consistently deliver loads and run for at least three weeks at a time, you can take home $150K a year. If you are interested, apply now.