MILITARY EXPERIENCE: As you would expect, there are a lot of drivers that have spent time in the service. The military provides a very good source for drivers for the trucking industry. There are a variety of reasons for this. Veterans are usually mature and responsible. They are used to discipline and often can work well on their own as well as with others. Many vets are also experienced with heavy equipment, transportation and logistics so trucking is a good fit. In fact, some service-members have obtained a military CDL. Although this cannot be transferred to a civilian CDL, it usually means that reduced training is necessary to get a CDL.

The military also has several programs to assist service members separating from the service. For example, the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) is administered jointly by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs and the Department of Labor’s Veterans Employment and Training Service (VETS). Under TAP, service members are provided workshops and information on employment and training options after leaving the service. Disabled vets have a special DTAP program available in addition to local Vocational Rehabilitation (VocRehab) office assistance. Finally, service members with veterans educational benefits may be able to have certain costs of truck driver training funded. Ask the truck driving school if they accept VA funding. Schools must be in business for two years prior to VA approval, which is handled by state VA representatives.