The cost of CDL training can be a barrier for many aspiring drivers. The good news is that various financial support options are available to help cover these costs. Let’s explore grants, scholarships, student loans, and tuition reimbursement programs that can make CDL training more affordable.
Grants for CDL Training
Grants are a great way to fund your CDL training because they do not need to be repaid. Here are some grant options to consider:
Federal Grants: The U.S. government offers several grant programs that can help cover educational expenses, including CDL training. The most well-known federal education grant program is the Pell Grant, which is available to students with financial need.
Pell Grant - Several requirements are needed to qualify for a Pell Grant and some CDL programs are not eligible.
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Grant -Administered by the Department of Labor, WIOA grants provide funding for job training programs, including CDL training, to help unemployed or underemployed individuals gain the skills needed for in-demand jobs. Priority is given to veterans, recipients of public assistance, low-income individuals, those who are basic skills deficient, and individuals with other barriers to employment. A list of all WIOA programs can be seen here.
One type of WIOA grant is the Dislocated Worker Grant (DWG) for disaster recovery or employment recovery. Employment recovery grants are used “to serve dislocated workers and to meet the increased demand for employment and training services following a qualifying event. Qualifying events include major economic dislocations, such as plant closures, mass layoffs, or higher-than-average demand for employment and training activities for dislocated members of the Armed Forces and their spouses.” Click here to see a list of all the various types of DWG’s. You will need to get connected with a job service center to see what you are eligible for.
Veteran CDL Grant - Veterans can benefit from specialized grants aimed at helping them transition to civilian careers in trucking. The Military Skills Test Waiver Program, for example, allows veterans with military driving experience to bypass certain CDL testing requirements. Additionally, the Post-9/11 GI Bill can be used to cover CDL training costs, and programs such as Veteran Readiness & Employment can provide allowances to cover costs during your training.
SNAP Employment and Training Grant - For those receiving SNAP benefits (formerly known as food stamps), the SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) Program offers grants to help cover the cost of vocational training, including CDL training. The SNAP E&T grants aim to help individuals gain the skills necessary to secure employment and move towards self-sufficiency. This grant can be a valuable resource for low-income individuals who need financial assistance to pursue a career in trucking.
2. State and Local Grants: Many states and local governments offer grants specifically for workforce training. Check with your state’s Department of Labor or local workforce development agency to see what’s available in your area.
Please note you need to speak with all CDL schools you are interested in attending to confirm which financial aid options are accepted. Contact your local job center to see what grant options are available to you!
Scholarships for CDL Training
Scholarships are another excellent source of funding that does not need to be repaid. They are often awarded based on merit, need, or specific criteria related to the trucking industry. Here are a few scholarship options:
Trucking Industry Scholarships: Organizations such as the Women in Trucking Foundation and the Truckload Carriers Association offer scholarships to individuals pursuing a career in trucking.
Company-Sponsored Scholarships: Some trucking companies offer scholarships to individuals who commit to working for them after obtaining their CDL. This helps you fund your education and secure a job after training.
Community and Technical College Scholarships: Many community and technical colleges offer scholarships to students enrolled in their CDL programs. Check with the financial aid office at your school for available opportunities.
Student Loans for CDL Training
While student loans need to be repaid, they can provide the necessary funds to cover the cost of CDL training when other options are not available. Here are some loan options:
Federal Student Loans: Federal Direct Loans are available to students enrolled in eligible CDL training programs. These Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans typically offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans. These are acquired by applying for federal student aid (FAFSA).
Private Student Loans: Private lenders also offer student loans for CDL training. While these may have higher interest rates, they can be a viable option if you need additional funds beyond what federal loans provide.
Credit Union and Bank Loans: Some credit unions and banks offer personal loans specifically for education and training purposes. These loans can be another source of funding for your CDL training.
Tuition Reimbursement Programs
Tuition reimbursement programs are offered by trucking companies as an incentive to attract new drivers. Here’s how they work:
Company-Sponsored Training Programs: Some companies offer to pay for your CDL training upfront in exchange for a commitment to work for them for a specified period. This can be an excellent way to get your training paid for without taking on debt. Be sure to read the fine print in your contract! If you fail or the company decides to not hire you, you may be responsible for paying the training costs.
Reimbursement After Employment: Other companies offer tuition reimbursement after you’ve completed your training and started working for them. You’ll need to pay for the training upfront, but the company will reimburse you over time as you fulfill your employment contract.
Tips for Securing Financial Support
Start researching your options as soon as possible and apply early for grants, scholarships, and loans. Many programs have limited funds and deadlines. Be actively communicating with your potential CDL training provider to understand which types of financial aid they accept.
Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for each type of financial support. Pay close attention to application instructions and provide all required documentation.
Don’t rely on just one source of funding. Combine grants, scholarships, and loans to cover the full cost of your CDL training.
If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to the financial aid office at your training school, local workforce development agencies, or professional organizations in the trucking industry. They can provide guidance and resources to help you find financial support.
Finding ways to pay for CDL training can seem daunting, but with the right resources and planning, it’s entirely possible. By exploring grants, scholarships, student loans, and tuition reimbursement programs, you can become a professional truck driver without breaking the bank. Take the time to research, discuss, and apply for financial support!
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Soshaul Logistics LLC and its affiliates do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. It is meant to serve as a guide and information only and Soshaul Logistics, LLC does not assume responsibility for any omissions, errors, or ambiguity contained herein. Contents may not be relied upon as a substitute for the FMCSA's published regulations. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction or operation.
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