To drive a commercial truck, one should obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) after passing the skills and knowledge tests. The driver’s license program is available in many schools and usually lasts 9–12 weeks. The program requires dedication and is not easy to achieve. The trucks are heavy, and driving them is a dangerous task. With the growth in demand and supply, the need for transport has also increased. This is an excellent time to try new avenues and opt for career advancement courses such as commercial driver’s license training.
The CDL training has various financial solutions like the state and local CDL training grants that provide opportunities to individuals. According to the eligibility criteria of each scholarship or grant, you can choose which fits you the best. A CDL has various levels that determine the type of vehicle you can operate. Here are the three essential levels or types:
Commercial Driver’s License Class A
A person with a class A CDL can operate heavy hazardous vehicles like towing tractors. They can also operate on vehicles that can tow trailers, have a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,000 pounds and above, and the trailer is 10,000 pounds and above.
Commercial Driver’s License Class B
A person with a class B CDL can operate on vehicles with 26,000 pounds GCWR without any other towing vehicle or vehicles with a GCWR below 10,000 pounds. Class B CDL drivers work with single trucks instead of double deckers or towed vehicles.
Commercial Driver’s License Class C
A person with a class C CDL can operate on three types of vehicles. The vehicle’s GCWR is less than 26,000 pounds. Second, they can work with vehicles that can tow other vehicles that weigh less than 10,000 pounds or trucks or vehicles that can carry passengers up to 16, including the driver. Such vehicles include hazmat vehicles, school buses, tank trucks, etc.
CDL Training Grants: The Economic Way To Obtain
The government’s engagement in enhancing the supply chain has made it even easier to become a trucker because funding, training programs, and compensation for truck drivers have all been improved thanks to several state and local CDL training grants. Here are a few you may consider:
WIOA’s Dislocated Worker Grants
If you have been laid off, you could be eligible for the Dislocated Worker scholarship, which will pay for your CDL training. The grant can also help with your hotel and travel expenses if you go a considerable distance to a truck driving school.
Pell Grants
Low-income people may be eligible for financial help to cover the cost of their CDL training. You are more likely to qualify for the Pell award if you have a larger financial need.
WIOA’s Adult and Youth Program Grants
This specific award may be available if you wish to become a trucker and fall into a lower-income category. The Adult and Youth Program Grant may occasionally be combined with other grants from your local job center to pay for your CDL training.
Final Thoughts
Commercial driver’s license programs are different in every school and require you to have a standard four-wheeler license, to begin with. The state and local CDL training grants help you by providing you with financial opportunities to finish your career advancement program. Make sure to visit the government or reputed sites to get more information on the same and boost your chances of having a promising career.
