CDL Training For Veterans
A professional driving career is a great fit for many military men and women. Getting a CDL is the first step. Through select DRC network schools, veterans can use their Post 9/11 GI Bill® or other veteran’s educational benefits to pay for part or all of CDL training. DRC’s military enrollment specialist will help you with the entire application process. The military has given you the tools to succeed as well as the experience trucking employers are looking for.
Use Your Military Benefits To Get a CDL
While most aspiring drivers have to cover the expenses of CDL training themselves, eligible veterans have a unique opportunity to utilize the G.I. Bill®* or other educational benefits to pay for their CDL training. DRC has several truck driving schools that accept the G.I. Bill®.
Now, let’s delve into how veterans can take advantage of the G.I. Bill® to pursue CDL school and kick-start their career as truck drivers.
Chapter 33 – Post 9/11 GI Bill® –
Chapter 33, also known as the Post 9/11 GI Bill®, is an education benefit program provided by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for military service members and veterans who served on active duty after September 10, 2001.
The Post 9/11 GI Bill® offers financial support for education and training programs, including degree programs, vocational training, apprenticeships, and flight training. Eligible individuals can receive funding for tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance, and a stipend for books and supplies. The benefit amount is determined based on the length of qualifying service and the individual’s enrollment status.
Chapter 30 – Montgomery GI Bill® (MGIB) –
Chapter 30, also known as the Montgomery GI Bill® (MGIB), is an education benefit program provided by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for military service members and veterans who served on active duty and made a financial contribution towards their education while on active duty.
The Montgomery GI Bill® offers financial assistance for education and training programs, including degree programs, vocational training, apprenticeships, and flight training. It is available to active duty service members and veterans who have completed at least two years of active duty service.
Chapter 35 – Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance Program (DEA) –
Chapter 35, also known as the Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance Program (DEA), is an education benefit program provided by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for the eligible dependents of certain veterans who have died or have been permanently and totally disabled as a result of their service.
The Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance Program offers educational and training assistance to the spouses and children of veterans who meet the eligibility criteria. This program provides financial support to help eligible dependents pursue education or training to achieve their career goals.
Chapter 1606 – Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) –
Chapter 1606, also known as the Selected Reserve Montgomery GI Bill® (MGIB-SR), is an education benefit program provided by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for members of the Selected Reserve or the National Guard.
The Selected Reserve Montgomery GI Bill® offers educational assistance to reservists and guardsmen who have completed their initial active duty training and have a six-year obligation to serve in the Selected Reserve or National Guard.
Chapter 31 – VR & E (veterans readiness and employment) – Chapter 31, also known as the Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, is an education and vocational rehabilitation program provided by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for disabled veterans. The program aims to assist eligible veterans with service-connected disabilities in preparing for, finding, and maintaining suitable employment or achieving independence in daily living.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to get Free CDL Training for Veterans?
There are several Veterans Affairs programs that can help pay for part of all of your CDL Training. This includes the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. Any military veteran who served for at least 90 days after September 10, 2001, and received an honorable discharge, is eligible for education and training opportunities through the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. You may also qualify for other VA programs that may also pay for CDL training. You can learn more about VA education benefits and eligibility at www.va.gov/education.
How do I apply for G.I. Bill® benefits?
Once you determined you are eligible to use your G.I. Bill® benefits, fill out a VA Form 22-1990, Application for VA Education Benefits. You can apply online from the VA website.
- Social security number
- Bank account direct deposit information,
- Education and military history
- Basic information about the school or training facility you want to attend or are attending now
How long does the application process take?
It typically takes 30 days for an application to be reviewed and approved by the VA, but this timeline can vary dramatically depending on your situation.
What happens after my G.I Bill® benefits are approved?
Once your application is approved, you will receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), or award letter. Send the COE to the VA certifying official, such as the DRC VA enrollment specialist. They will then review your application and get you enrolled for an upcoming class.
Are there other programs I can benefit from as a veteran?
We proudly work with many trucking companies that offer veteran programs. Many are members of the Military Apprenticeship Program®. With this program, you may be eligible to earn a monthly educational benefit check along with your weekly salary from your new job. For some veterans, this could be as much as $1,400 additional each month.
Do DRC’s truck driving schools accept the GI Bill®?
Yes, the DRC partners with schools that accept the GI Bill®. Our Career Specialists can help find a school close to you to match your needs.
WHY DRC?
Our network schools have trained veterans for rewarding careers in transportation for more than 20 years! As a military veteran looking to get a CDL and start a civilian career as a truck driver, you want a school that meets your high standards. Training standards are important to trucking companies and are an important factor for veterans to consider.
Our Network Schools:
- Accept the GI Bill®
- FMCSA approved and listed on the Training Provider Registry
- Hands-on training from experienced instructors
*GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
https://www.benefits.va.gov/GIBILL/Trademark_Terms_of_Use.asp
Featured Blogs
An increase in e-commerce and growth in the manufacturing sector has led to a thriving trucking industry. First year truck drivers can expect to earn between $69,000 and $85,000 per year. That makes a CDL an excellent investment in your future. Get to work in a lucrative career in as few as four weeks. When … Continued
Sometimes you need to try a few different careers before finding the one that suites you best. That was the case for Marine veteran Carlin Manendez who recently found a rewarding career as a truck driver. After five years of active duty and three years of guard service, Calvin decided he wanted a new challenge … Continued
Let’s Talk.
Get started by filling out a form below and a career specialist will be in touch soon.