The DOT on Friday unveiled a new website, freedomhaulers.dot.gov, teasing a major announcement on Monday fast-tracking U.S. veterans for CDLs.
"Are you a veteran, and not an illegal alien?" a promotional video on the site asks. "How about six figures? Become a freedom hauler."
Last week, President Donald Trump said "any American who has driven a heavy truck for our military will automatically be eligible for a commercial driver’s license," and now DOT has provided more details.
Framed as the answer to trucking's fraud and non-citizen/non-English speaking driver programs, the site promises to cover up to 100% of CDL tuition programs for veterans.
"Get licensed and on the road in weeks," the website says.
While veterans already enjoyed the Military Skills Test Waiver program, it looks like DOT has now made it even easier to get a CDL by allowing veterans to bypass all testing in certain states through the "Even Exchange Program."
"Veterans with approved military occupational driving classifications can immediately exchange their military license for a civilian CDL -- completely bypassing the skills and knowledge tests," the website says.
Furthermore, the site says veterans "can use their GI Bill benefits to receive a monthly educational housing allowance check in addition to their weekly truck driving salary."
Even current military members can get their CDLs before leaving the service, according to the website.
It's so fast-tracked that the site says you can print your CDL after a few quick steps.
Veterans in states without the Even Exchange Program still have to go through the knowledge test, however.
"Pass the standard written commercial knowledge test at your local DMV to secure your CLP. Your military experience allows you to waive the complex road test entirely!" the website states.
The website also states truck driving wages have gone up 7.42% in the first 18 months of Trump's second term.
"There has never been a better time to get behind the wheel," it says.
