Getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is the first step to becoming a truck driver, but training can be expensive. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to get free CDL training. Here are some effective ways and specific resources to help you find free CDL courses.

1. Federal Grants and the GI Bill

Description:

If you are a veteran or active duty military member, you can use the GI Bill® benefits to help pay for CDL training. This benefit can cover the cost of attending a certified CDL school.

How to Apply?

Contact the VA: Visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) website to find out your eligibility and apply for GI Bill® benefits.

Select a School: Make sure the training school you choose is VA certified. You can find eligible schools on the VA website.

Submit an Application: Fill out the VA form and submit your application. Once approved, you can start training.

Case Study

For example, John is a veteran who successfully paid for his tuition at a local truck driving school using the GI Bill® and found a job after completing the training.

2. CrossPurpose Program

Location

Denver, Colorado

Description:

CrossPurpose has partnered with Carter Truck Driving Academy to provide free four-week CDL A training and certification. The program not only covers driving skills training, but also includes career development support such as resume writing and interview skills.

Eligibility Requirements:

No major driving violation record within three years

Pass the DOT physical examination

Complete the pre-admission written test

Maintain a clean drug test result

How to Apply?

Visit the website: Go to the CrossPurpose official website, fill out the application form and submit the required materials.

Interview: After qualifying, you may need to participate in an interview to confirm your qualifications.

Case Study

Mary is an unemployed mother who received free CDL training through the CrossPurpose program and successfully found a job as a truck driver after completing the course, improving her family's financial situation.

3. Local Employment Board

Description:

Many state employment boards or workforce offices offer grant programs to cover the cost of CDL courses. These programs are often targeted at unemployed people or low-income families.

How to Get Information?

Visit a Local Employment Office: Find an employment services office in your area to learn about available grant programs.

Consult a Counselor: Talk to a career counselor to ask for specific information and eligibility requirements for CDL training.

Case Study

After Tom lost his job, he went to his local employment office for consultation and learned that he could get free CDL training funding through the office, which enabled him to successfully complete the training and find a new job.

4. Company-Sponsored Training

Description:

Some large transportation companies offer company-sponsored CDL training. This means that the company will pay for your training, but you will need to work for them for a period of time (usually one year) after completing the training.

Advantages

No upfront costs: You don't have to pay for training.

Job guarantee: You will have the opportunity to enter the job directly after completing training.

How to apply?

Search for companies: Visit the official websites of large transportation companies, such as Swift Transportation, CR England, or Werner Enterprises, to view their sponsored training programs.

Fill out an application: Apply online and attend an interview to ensure that you meet the company's requirements.

Case

Jack received free CDL training through Swift Transportation and was successfully hired after completing the course. The company also provided him with additional salary subsidies.

5. Non-profit organizations

Description:

Some non-profit organizations, such as ANEW (A New Employment Way), provide free CDL training programs. Participants will receive classroom and hands-on training, and receive support services to help overcome employment barriers.

Eligibility Requirements:

1.Valid driver's license

2.Able to pass drug test

3.21 years of age or older

How to Apply?

Visit the website: Go to the ANEW official website, fill out the application form and submit the required materials.

Attend an information session: Many nonprofits hold information sessions regularly to introduce the program and the application process.

Case Study

Lisa received free CDL training and career counseling through the ANEW program, and successfully found a stable truck driving job after completing the program.

6. Online Resources and Community Support

Description:

Use online platforms such as TruckingTruth and Indeed to find information about different companies and programs. These platforms often provide detailed guides on how to get funded CDL training.

How to Use These Resources?

Register for an Account: Register for an account on TruckingTruth or Indeed to browse available CDL courses and sponsorship options.

Fill out an application: Many platforms allow you to submit applications to multiple companies at the same time, increasing your chances of getting funded.

Case Study

Andy found some company-sponsored CDL courses through TruckingTruth and successfully applied for a free training spot from a company, which helped him enter the truck driving industry smoothly.

Summary

There are many ways to get free CDL courses in the United States. You can find a solution that suits you through federal grants, local employment offices, company sponsorship, non-profit organizations, and online resources. Before applying, be sure to understand all eligibility requirements and terms so that you can successfully complete the training and enter the truck driving industry. Take action and start planning your career future today!