The 3 Changes Making It Easier for Veterans to Enter the Trucking Industry

The Trump administration has announced three major policy changes designed to make it easier for U.S. military veterans to enter the commercial trucking industry.

The measures include extending the eligibility period for accelerated commercial driver’s licenses, adding seven new states to the Even Exchange program, and providing greater flexibility for active-duty service members seeking to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

The announcements were made during the official launch of the Freedom Haulers campaign at the White House.

The event was led by President Donald Trump and Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy, alongside Secretary of Veterans Affairs Douglas A. Collins, Acting Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling, and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Administrator Derek D. Barrs.

In addition to the regulatory changes, Werner Enterprises announced plans to hire 1,400 military veterans and military spouses in 2027, representing a 67% increase in its military-affiliated workforce.

The Three Key Changes

The first change extends the eligibility period for the FMCSA’s Military Skills Test Waiver from one year to two years after leaving military service. The waiver allows veterans who operated heavy military vehicles to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) without retaking the road skills test. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, more than 40,000 veterans have used the waiver since it was introduced.

The second measure adds Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, and Wyoming to the Even Exchange program, increasing participation to 34 states. The program enables eligible veterans with documented experience operating heavy military vehicles to bypass both the written knowledge exam and the road test, significantly speeding up the CDL licensing process.

The third change is aimed at active-duty military personnel. They will now be able to apply for and take the exam for either a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) or a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in the state where they are stationed, rather than returning to their state of residence. This flexibility will remain available for two years after they leave military service.

Federal Resources Supporting the Transition

The Freedom Haulers campaign also brings together several federal programs designed to help veterans transition into trucking careers.

Through the GI Bill, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can cover up to 100% of CDL training costs at approved institutions. Veterans with service-connected disabilities may also qualify for the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, which fully funds training while providing career placement assistance.

Meanwhile, the Department of Defense’s SkillBridge program allows service members approaching separation from the military to spend their final 180 days receiving hands-on training with trucking companies, helping them move directly into civilian employment.

The Department of Labor also supports veterans through a registered apprenticeship program that provides a monthly housing and education allowance while participants earn wages as entry-level commercial drivers.

A Coordinated Federal Initiative

Freedom Haulers is a joint initiative involving the White House and the Departments of Transportation, Veterans Affairs, Defense, and Labor. The campaign will include radio advertising, digital outreach, and a dedicated website featuring information on federal programs, available benefits, and private-sector employers actively recruiting military veterans.

During the launch, Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said the initiative is designed to remove unnecessary administrative barriers and accelerate veterans’ entry into the trucking workforce.

“Illegal immigrants who don’t speak our language shouldn’t be behind the wheel of a commercial truck. Veterans have already demonstrated the strength, discipline, and skills needed for this critical job. Through Freedom Haulers, we’re cutting red tape so these patriots can get licensed faster and start earning a paycheck in record time.”

Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins said the program expands employment opportunities for those leaving military service.

“The Department of Veterans Affairs already helps thousands of veterans make this transition every year, and we’re ready to help many more.”

Acting Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling said the initiative addresses a growing workforce need.

“Our veterans possess the determination and work ethic employers across America are looking for, and Freedom Haulers has the potential to close that gap.”

FMCSA Administrator Derek D. Barrs emphasized that military experience translates directly into the trucking profession.

“Veterans embody the sense of duty, determination, and precision this industry needs. With Freedom Haulers, we’re welcoming our military heroes behind the wheel to make our highways safer and strengthen the backbone of our economy.”

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