The U.S. Department of Transportation has launched Freedom Haulers, a new nationwide initiative to help military veterans transition into high-demand, well-paying careers as truck drivers. For veterans in our community, this program offers a powerful pathway to a new mission: keeping America’s supply chains moving and our economy strong.

Why Trucking Needs Veterans Now

There is a critical and growing need for qualified truck drivers. The U.S. Department of Transportation has recently enforced stricter rules to ensure all commercial drivers are safe and qualified, which has led to a shortage of drivers across the country. This has created an unprecedented opportunity for veterans to step in and fill the gap .

As Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated, this is a moment to restore the integrity of America’s trucking industry and get the word out that there’s never been a better time for veterans to get behind the wheel . The skills you forged in the military—precision, discipline, and a mission-first mindset—are the exact qualities that make for an excellent truck driver.

Key Benefits of the Freedom Haulers Program

The Freedom Haulers initiative connects veterans to several powerful benefits designed to make the transition to a civilian trucking career as smooth and affordable as possible.

1. Financial Support for Training

• GI Bill® Coverage: If you served on active duty for at least 36 months, the Post-9/11 GI Bill can cover up to 100% of your CDL training costs at approved public colleges or technical schools . You may also be eligible for a monthly housing allowance while you train .
• VA Apprenticeship Programs: You can use your GI Bill benefits to participate in a registered apprenticeship. This allows you to earn a full truck driver’s salary while also receiving a tax-free monthly housing allowance from the VA for up to two years. Major carriers like Schneider and U.S. Xpress offer strong apprenticeship programs .

2. Fast-Tracked Licensing for Veterans

The Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) have streamlined the process for veterans with military driving experience:

• Skills Test Waiver: If you have operated a military commercial motor vehicle within the last year, you may be eligible to waive the CDL skills (road) test in every state. More than 40,000 veterans have already used this program to get licensed in just a few weeks .
• Even Exchange: In many states, veterans with approved military occupational driving classifications can directly exchange their military license for a civilian CDL, bypassing both skills and knowledge tests . Participating states include CA, GA, IA, IL, KS, KY, MO, NC, ND, NM, SC, VA, VT, WI, and WV .

3. Military-to-Civilian Transition Programs

• SkillBridge: Service members in their final six months of active duty can participate in civilian trucking training, allowing them to start their new career the day they separate .
• VA Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E): If you have a service-connected disability, VR&E can fully fund your CDL training and assist you in securing a high-paying job in the trucking industry .

How to Get Started

The Freedom Haulers website provides a clear roadmap for veterans to begin their journey. Here is how you can take the first step:

1. Visit the Official Site: Go to https://freedomhaulers.dot.gov/ to explore the program details, check your eligibility, and find approved training programs.
2. Verify Your Military Experience: Gather your service records (DD-214 or military driving records) and confirm if you have operated a military commercial motor vehicle. This will help you determine if you qualify for the skills test waiver.
3. Connect with a VA Counselor: To use your GI Bill or VR&E benefits, contact the Department of Veterans Affairs. They can help you navigate the approval process for training and apprenticeship programs.
4. Research Industry Partners: Major trucking companies are eager to hire veterans. Companies like Werner Enterprises, Schneider, J.B. Hunt, and Stevens Transport have dedicated military programs and can offer additional incentives, such as advanced pay credits and tuition reimbursement .

Join the Mission

The trucking industry is a vital part of our nation’s infrastructure. The Freedom Haulers program is an open call for veterans in our community to answer a new call to duty. This is a chance to apply your unique skills, start a rewarding career with strong earning potential, and secure a stable future for you and your family. The average annual earnings for truckers are currently around $70,000, and wages have been on the rise .

For more information, or to be connected to local resources and support, please contact the NSEDA office. We are here to help you navigate your new mission.