President Trump, Transportation Secretary Sen Duffy, and other officials hosted a number of military veterans at the White House to start the Freedom Haulers campaign, intended to expedite CDL processing for veterans to provide new job opportunities for those with relevant work experience.

The participants announced several Federal Policy Changes:

1. By extending the FMCSA Military Skills Test Waiver window from one-to-two years post-service, the Administration is doubling the timeframe for veterans to translate their experience into a CDL without re-taking the driving exam. To date, more than 40,000 veterans have used this waiver.

2. Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Nebraska, and Wyoming have committed to joining FMCSA’s Even Exchange Program, which allows qualified veterans to bypass both written and driving exams to fast-track their CDL licensing process. This program is now available in 34 states.

3. Active-duty service members can now apply and test for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) or CDL in the state where they are currently stationed, rather than traveling back to their home state. This benefit is also available for two years post-service.

Current Federal Resources Supporting the Veteran-to-Trucker Pipeline Include:

• Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): The GI Bill will cover up to 100% of CDL tuition at State Approving Agency-approved schools. For Veterans with service-connected disabilities, the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program fully funds training and assists with carrier job placement.

• Department of War (DOW): Through the SkillBridge program, transitioning service members can spend their final 180 days of active duty in civilian trucking training– allowing them to start a full-time career the day they separate.

• Department of Labor (DOL): The Apprenticeship Program allows veterans to draw a monthly educational housing stipend on top of their full trucking paycheck while training.

• Department of Transportation (USDOT): FMCSA's Military Skills Test Waiver and Even Exchange program allow veterans with heavy-vehicle experience to bypass civilian CDL exams and get behind the wheel faster.