Public Law 118 – 95: Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023
Background
The Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License (CDL) Act of 2023 was signed into law on January 16, 2025. This law aims to improve the employment and economic opportunities for veterans seeking commercial driver licenses (CDLs).
Key Provisions
The law includes several key provisions to support veterans in obtaining and maintaining CDLs:
- Veteran Service Records Substitution: Veterans may use their military service records as proof of residency to obtain a CDL.
- CDL Skill Demonstration Waiver: Veterans with certain military driving experience may be granted a waiver from the CDL skills test if they meet specific requirements.
- CDL Testing Fee Assistance: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will provide financial assistance to veterans for CDL testing fees.
- Veteran Hiring and Retention Programs: Employers are encouraged to hire and retain veterans with CDLs through tax incentives and other programs.
- CDL Training Programs: The VA and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will collaborate on creating and expanding CDL training programs for veterans.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the benefits under this law, veterans must meet certain requirements, such as:
- Honorable discharge from military service
- Valid military service record documenting driving experience
- Proof of residency in the state where the CDL is being sought
- Financial need for assistance with CDL testing fees
Implementation
The VA and the FMCSA are responsible for implementing the provisions of the law. The VA will establish procedures for providing financial assistance and assisting veterans with accessing CDL training programs. The FMCSA will develop guidelines for evaluating military driving experience and granting CDL skills test waivers.
Benefits for Veterans
The Veteran Improvement CDL Act provides numerous benefits for veterans, including:
- Enhanced Employment Opportunities: A CDL can open up new career paths in the transportation industry, providing veterans with stable and well-paying jobs.
- Reduced Financial Burdens: The financial assistance for CDL testing fees and the hiring and retention programs can alleviate the financial challenges associated with obtaining and maintaining a CDL.
- Recognition of Military Experience: The law recognizes the valuable driving experience gained by veterans in the military, reducing the barriers to obtaining a civilian CDL.
Conclusion
The Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023 is a significant step towards supporting veterans in the civilian workforce. By providing opportunities for CDL training, testing assistance, and employer incentives, this law empowers veterans to succeed in the transportation industry.
Public Law 118 – 95 – Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023
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