Financial plans are accessible, allowing flexible payments to support students. In-house financing aids students in managing training costs efficiently. Several options are available for individuals who want to pursue a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) but need financial assistance. Here are common ways to get financial support for obtaining a CDL:

Grants and Scholarships:

• Explore grants and scholarships that may be available to individuals pursuing CDL training. Some workforce development programs, community organizations, or industry-specific associations may offer financial assistance.

Employer-Sponsored Scholarships:

• Some trucking companies may have scholarship programs to support individuals in obtaining a CDL. These scholarships may come with an agreement to work for the company for a specified period after completing training.

Online Scholarship Databases:

• Explore online scholarship databases that list opportunities for individuals pursuing vocational or technical training, including CDL programs. Websites like Fastweb, Chegg, and College Board’s Scholarship Search can be helpful resources.

Workforce Development Grants:

• Workforce development agencies at the federal, state, and local levels may offer grants to individuals seeking training in high-demand industries, including the transportation sector. These grants are often designed to help individuals acquire the skills needed for specific jobs, such as obtaining a CDL.

Community College or Vocational School Grants:

• Some community colleges or vocational schools that offer CDL training programs may have grant funds available to assist students with the cost of tuition and related expenses. These grants may be targeted toward specific groups, such as low-income individuals or those facing other barriers to employment.

Industry-Specific Scholarships:

• Certain organizations or associations within the trucking and transportation industry may provide scholarships to individuals pursuing CDL training. These scholarships can be based on financial need, academic achievement, or other criteria. Check with industry associations, trucking companies, or relevant foundations for scholarship opportunities.

Several workforce development programs and employment agencies also offer financial assistance to individuals pursuing a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). These workforce centers provide access to grants, training resources, and job placement services to help drivers build successful careers in the transportation industry. Here are common ways workforce centers can assist in financing CDL training:

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Grants:

• The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is a federally funded program that helps eligible individuals cover the cost of vocational training, including CDL programs. Workforce centers partner with state and local agencies to provide these grants, ensuring that those seeking employment in high-demand fields like commercial trucking receive the necessary funding and resources.

State and Local Workforce Programs:

• Many states offer job training assistance through their Department of Labor, Transportation, or Workforce Development offices. These programs are designed to help individuals transition into in-demand careers, including commercial driving, by offering financial aid, career counseling, and hands-on training opportunities.

Job Placement Assistance

• Workforce centers often provide career counseling and job placement services to individuals who complete CDL training programs. Many centers partner with trucking companies and logistics firms that actively seek new drivers, offering a direct path to employment after training.

Employer-Sponsored Workforce Grants

• Some employers collaborate with workforce centers to offer tuition assistance programs for individuals interested in obtaining their CDL. These employer-sponsored grants may require individuals to commit to working for a company for a specific period after completing their training.

Veteran Workforce Training Programs:

• Veterans transitioning into civilian careers may qualify for workforce training grants and GI Bill® funding for CDL training. Many workforce centers offer specialized programs to assist veterans in securing high-paying careers in transportation.

How to Apply for Workforce Funding

• Visit your local workforce center or the state’s Department of Labor website to check eligibility for CDL training grants.
• Complete a workforce funding application—some programs may require an interview or career assessment.
• Enroll in an approved CDL training program that meets workforce development requirements.
• Connect with job placement specialists to explore employment opportunities after training.

Private Foundations and Non-profits:

• Some private foundations and non-profits organizations focus on supporting individuals in their education and career pursuits. Research foundations that align with your goals and check if they offer grants or scholarships for CDL training.

State and Local Programs:

• State and local governments may have programs that provide financial assistance for job training, including CDL training. Contact your state’s Department of Labor, Department of Transportation, or other relevant agencies to inquire about available grants and scholarships.