According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the trucking industry moves 72.6% of America’s freight by weight—making it the backbone of the U.S. economy. And based on projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 241,000 new drivers will be needed each year through 2032 due to turnover, retirement, and industry growth.
What Is a CDL and Why It’s In Demand?
A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) allows you to operate large or heavy vehicles such as tractor-trailers, buses, and tankers. There are three classes:
- Class A: Required for operating vehicles over 26,001 lbs with a towed vehicle over 10,000 lbs. Think long-haul trucks.
- Class B: Covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs. This includes delivery trucks and school buses.
- Class C: For passenger vans and small hazmat vehicles.
Why It’s So In Demand:
- Aging Workforce: The average truck driver is 48 years old. Retirements are opening up jobs fast.
- E-Commerce Boom: Online shopping has increased the need for reliable delivery systems.
- High Turnover Rate: Many drivers move on after a few years, creating a constant stream of openings.
What Are Unemployment Grants?
Unemployment grants are funds provided by federal or state agencies to help jobless individuals re-enter the workforce through education or training.
These aren’t loans. You don’t have to pay them back.
The most common source of CDL training funds is the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), but there are several others depending on your state, situation, or past job status.
Who Offers These Unemployment Grants?
- Federal Government (via WIOA)
- State Departments of Labor
- Veterans Affairs (VA)
- Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA)
- Dislocated Worker Programs
- SNAP Employment & Training (E&T)
Top Programs That Fund CDL Training for Unemployed Individuals
Here are the top programs and who they’re ideal for:
1. WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act)
- Covers full tuition for approved CDL programs
- Available in all 50 states
- Offers additional support like child care, fuel cards, or housing assistance
2. State Unemployment Training Vouchers
- Most states offer additional funds beyond WIOA
- Names vary (e.g., “Training Benefits Program” in Washington State)
- Contact your local unemployment office directly
3. Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA)
- For workers laid off due to international trade
- Pays for CDL training and even weekly living expenses
4. Veteran Benefits (GI Bill®)
- Covers CDL training costs for eligible veterans
- Some programs offer monthly housing stipends during school
5. SNAP E&T (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – Employment & Training)
- Designed for low-income individuals on food stamps
- Offers job training, including CDL programs
Felon-Friendly Trucking Companies That Hire With a CDL:
These companies are known to hire drivers with certain felony convictions after a review:
- Western Express
- Carolina Cargo
- C.R. England
- Knight Transportation
- Roehl Transport
Be upfront during your application. Many companies will work with you if you’re honest and have completed your training.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for CDL Training Grants?
Step 1: Contact Your Nearest American Job Center
Use this link to find a center near you:
https://www.careeronestop.org
Step 2: Attend a WIOA Orientation
They’ll assess your skills, income level, job history, and training needs.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
You’ll likely need:
- ID and Social Security Card
- Proof of Unemployment Benefits
- Resume
- GED or high school diploma
Step 4: Choose a WIOA-Approved CDL School
Your caseworker will give you a list of state-approved schools. Choose one close to you with a good job placement rate.
Step 5: Get Enrolled & Funded
Once approved, your tuition goes straight to the school. You might even receive gas cards, books, or equipment allowances.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances of Approval
- Act Fast: Grants are often first-come, first-served.
- Be Honest and Clear: Clearly explain why CDL training fits your career goals.
- Research the Industry: Show your commitment to becoming a professional driver.
- Get Letters of Recommendation: From past employers or community leaders.
- Dress Professionally: First impressions matter—even at grant appointments.
Truck Driving Schools With Free Tuition
If you don’t qualify for a grant—or simply want to train without paying upfront—some CDL schools offer free tuition or deferred payment models.
1. Job Corps (Ages 16–24)
A federally funded program that provides free CDL training to low-income youth, including housing and meals.
Apply here: https://www.jobcorps.gov
2. Community Colleges
Many offer tuition-free CDL programs for unemployed individuals using WIOA funds.
Example: Ivy Tech (Indiana) or Lansing Community College (Michigan)
3. Non-Profit Vocational Training Programs
Organizations like:
- Goodwill Industries
- The Salvation Army
- Hope for Prisoners (NV)
often partner with local schools to offer zero-cost CDL training for disadvantaged individuals, including felons and low-income students.
Free Trucking Company CDL Programs
Here’s the big one: Some trucking companies will train you for FREE and guarantee you a job—as long as you work for them for a set period (usually 12–24 months).
These are known as company-sponsored CDL training programs.
Top Companies Offering Free CDL Training:
| Company | Training Cost | Contract Length | Upfront Pay? |
| Roehl Transport | Free (reimbursed after 6 months) | 15 months | Yes ($500/week during training) |
| Prime Inc. | Free (after 1-year employment) | 12 months | Yes (paid training after first week) |
| CRST | Free | 10 months | Yes (housing and meals included) |
| Swift Transportation | Free | 26 months | Yes (room/board available) |
| C.R. England | Free | 9 months | Yes (with dedicated recruiter) |
Pros:
- No tuition fees
- Fast track to a job
- Paid training in many cases
Cons:
- Must sign a contract (break it, and you could owe thousands)
- May require team driving or long-haul work initially
- Limited location options
Always read the fine print! Some “free” programs tack on charges if you don’t stay the full contract.
Final Thought
If you’re unemployed and wondering what’s next, CDL training could be your way back into the workforce—and you don’t have to pay for it. With unemployment grants, federal programs like WIOA, and state-run training initiatives, thousands of people are hitting the road with zero training debt.
Final Thought
Can I get a CDL while receiving unemployment?
Yes. In fact, many grant programs allow you to keep collecting unemployment benefits while you attend CDL school full-time.
What if I’ve never worked in trucking before?
That’s okay. These programs are designed for career changers and those re-entering the workforce.
Are online CDL classes eligible?
Usually no. WIOA and other grants typically require in-person, hands-on training at an approved facility.
Can I go to any CDL school?
Only if it’s on your state’s approved training provider list. Your job center will help you choose.
How long does CDL training take?
Most full-time programs last 3 to 8 weeks, depending on your location and license class.
Can I combine WIOA with a company-paid program?
No. You usually have to choose one. WIOA pays a school, while trucking companies train you internally.
What if I fail the CDL test?
Most programs (including WIOA-funded ones) allow up to 3 retests, sometimes at no extra charge.
Can I choose where I work after a company CDL program?
Not initially. You’re typically assigned routes during the contract period. After that, you can switch.
