Can I use the GI Bill to pay for CDL training?

Yes. The Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) covers CDL training at VA-approved schools. Many accredited truck driving schools accept GI Bill benefits, covering tuition, housing allowance, and book stipend. The VA also approves on-the-job training (OJT) programs at some carriers, which provide a monthly stipend while you train.

Which trucking companies hire veterans?

Major carriers with dedicated veteran hiring programs include Werner Enterprises (Military Apprenticeship Program), Schneider National (Military Apprenticeship + tuition reimbursement), KLLM Transport (veterans program), TMC Transportation, and USA Truck. Many of these companies also participate in the DOL Military Apprenticeship Program.

Do military driving skills transfer to a CDL?

Military vehicle operation experience is valuable but does not directly replace civilian CDL testing. However, FMCSA grants certain exemptions for military drivers: waived skills test for those with 2+ years military CMV experience (under the Military CDL Act), and interstate driving allowed at age 18-20 for qualifying veterans through the SAFE Act provisions.

What is the Troops to Truckers program?

Troops to Truckers (also known as Troops to Transportation) connects transitioning military service members with CDL training and trucking jobs. The program provides career counseling, training placement, and job matching. Similar programs include Helmets to Hardhats and the VA Veteran Readiness & Employment program (Chapter 31).

Are there CDL test exemptions for veterans?

Yes. Under the Military CDL Act, veterans with at least 2 years of military CMV driving experience in the past year can apply for a skills test waiver in most states. You still need to pass the written knowledge test. Additionally, the FMCSA allows states to accept military physicals in lieu of a DOT physical for up to one year after separation.

Veteran Trucking Jobs

Your military service prepared you for the road. GI Bill CDL training, veteran hiring programs, and the careers waiting for you.

Why Veterans Thrive in Trucking

Trucking and military service share a surprising amount of DNA. Discipline, long hours, working independently under pressure, following strict regulations, maintaining complex equipment, and operating on tight schedules are all part of both worlds. That is why the trucking industry actively seeks veterans, and why veterans consistently outperform the average new driver in safety metrics and retention rates.

The numbers are compelling: veterans make up roughly 6% of the U.S. workforce but nearly 10% of all truck drivers. Carriers report that veteran drivers have 20-30% lower accident rates and significantly higher first-year retention. The industry recognizes this, which is why so many carriers have built dedicated veteran programs.

GI Bill CDL Training

The Post-9/11 GI Bill is one of the most powerful tools for veterans entering trucking. Here is how to use it:

Find a VA-approved CDL school. Use the VA's WEAMS Institution Search tool to find approved schools in your state. Not all truck driving schools accept GI Bill benefits.
Apply for benefits. If you have not already, apply for education benefits through VA.gov. Processing takes 2-4 weeks.
Enroll and submit paperwork. The school's certifying official will submit your enrollment to the VA. Benefits typically cover full tuition plus a monthly housing allowance (BAH rate).
Consider OJT programs. Some carriers offer VA-approved On-the-Job Training where you earn a monthly VA stipend on top of your trainee pay while getting your CDL through the company.

Cost savings: CDL training typically costs $3,000-$7,000 out of pocket. Using GI Bill benefits means zero tuition cost, plus you receive a monthly housing allowance while in school. This is a significant advantage over non-veteran trainees who often enter lease-purchase agreements to fund their training.

Military Skills That Transfer

Vehicle Operation

Direct CMV experience (88M, 88N MOS)

Logistics & Planning

Route planning, load management, scheduling

Discipline & Compliance

HOS regulations, DOT inspections, safety protocols

Equipment Maintenance

Pre-trip/post-trip inspections, basic repairs

Independent Operations

Solo OTR driving, autonomous decision-making

Hazmat Handling

CBRN training transfers to HazMat endorsement

Top Carriers Hiring Veterans

Werner Enterprises

Military Apprenticeship Program, dedicated recruiter for veterans, tuition reimbursement for non-GI Bill drivers

Schneider National

Military Apprenticeship + VA OJT program, $10K+ in transition bonuses, dedicated military support team

TMC Transportation

Employee-owned, flatbed specialist, strong veteran community within the company

KLLM Transport

Refrigerated carrier with dedicated veterans hiring program and paid CDL training

USA Truck

Patriot Fleet program specifically for veterans, dedicated routes, competitive sign-on bonuses

XPO Logistics

LTL carrier with veteran hiring initiatives and career advancement tracks

FMCSA Military Exemptions

The federal government has created several pathways to make CDL licensing easier for veterans:

Skills Test Waiver: Veterans with 2+ years of military CMV experience within the past year can apply for a CDL skills test waiver in most states. You still must pass the knowledge (written) tests.
SAFE Act (Under-21 Interstate): Qualifying military veterans aged 18-20 can drive interstate commercial vehicles, which is normally restricted to drivers 21+.
Medical Certificate: States can accept a valid military medical exam in lieu of a DOT physical for up to one year after separation from service.
State Residency: Military personnel can apply for a CDL in their state of legal residence even if stationed elsewhere.

Resources for Veteran Drivers

Troops to Truckers: National program connecting veterans with CDL training and carrier jobs.
VA Veteran Readiness & Employment (Chapter 31): For veterans with service-connected disabilities, this program covers CDL training and provides support services.
DOL Military Apprenticeship: Registered apprenticeship program at participating carriers with monthly VA stipend.
Hire Heroes USA: Free career coaching and job placement for veterans transitioning to civilian careers including trucking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the GI Bill to pay for CDL training?: Yes. The Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) covers CDL training at VA-approved schools. Many accredited truck driving schools accept GI Bill benefits, covering tuition, housing allowance, and book stipend. The VA also approves on-the-job training (OJT) programs at some carriers, which provide a monthly stipend while you train.
Which trucking companies hire veterans?: Major carriers with dedicated veteran hiring programs include Werner Enterprises (Military Apprenticeship Program), Schneider National (Military Apprenticeship + tuition reimbursement), KLLM Transport (veterans program), TMC Transportation, and USA Truck. Many of these companies also participate in the DOL Military Apprenticeship Program.
Do military driving skills transfer to a CDL?: Military vehicle operation experience is valuable but does not directly replace civilian CDL testing. However, FMCSA grants certain exemptions for military drivers: waived skills test for those with 2+ years military CMV experience (under the Military CDL Act), and interstate driving allowed at age 18-20 for qualifying veterans through the SAFE Act provisions.
What is the Troops to Truckers program?: Troops to Truckers (also known as Troops to Transportation) connects transitioning military service members with CDL training and trucking jobs. The program provides career counseling, training placement, and job matching. Similar programs include Helmets to Hardhats and the VA Veteran Readiness & Employment program (Chapter 31).
Are there CDL test exemptions for veterans?: Yes. Under the Military CDL Act, veterans with at least 2 years of military CMV driving experience in the past year can apply for a skills test waiver in most states. You still need to pass the written knowledge test. Additionally, the FMCSA allows states to accept military physicals in lieu of a DOT physical for up to one year after separation.

Thank You for Your Service

Your skills are in demand. Find carriers that value your military experience.

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