Washington, D.C. — The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced Friday that it will accept applications for the Commercial Motor Vehicles Operator Safety Training (CMVOST) grant, targeting members of the National Association of Publicly Funded Truck Driving Schools (NAPFTDS). The grant program, which aims to funnel federal dollars into truck driver training for U.S. military veterans, National Guard members, Reservists, eligible family members, refugees, and other under‑represented groups, must be submitted by 5 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on April 19.
The move comes as the FMCSA doubles down on its core mission to cut crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses. By earmarking funds for safety‑focused training, the agency hopes to expand the pipeline of qualified CDL‑A drivers while giving historically marginalized populations a direct route into stable, well‑paying truck driver jobs. The program aligns with the Secretary’s strategic goals to improve operator competence and reduce risk on the nation’s highways.
Eligible institutions include both accredited schools and non‑accredited providers listed on the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Eligible Training Provider List. FMCSA officials expect to award roughly 15 grants, each capped at $200,000. The funding can be used to cover tuition, equipment, and instructional costs for trainees who meet the veteran, National Guard, Reservist, refugee, or under‑represented community criteria. The agency emphasized that the grant “supports the Secretary’s strategic goals” and will prioritize current or former members of the armed forces.
What This Means for Drivers
CDL‑A drivers looking to upgrade their skills or transition into OTR routes can benefit from new training slots that may be subsidized or fully funded through the grant. Owner‑operators who partner with eligible schools could receive crew‑trained apprentices, reducing labor shortages and easing recruitment for their fleets. Trucking companies hiring now will have a deeper pool of safety‑certified drivers, potentially lowering insurance premiums and compliance costs tied to FMCSA regulations. The grant also opens a pathway for refugees and minority candidates to enter the industry, diversifying the workforce and expanding the talent base for long‑haul and regional positions.
Industry Reaction
Industry groups have welcomed the funding boost, noting that the shortage of qualified drivers remains a top concern for trucking companies hiring in 2026. A spokesperson for the American Trucking Associations said the grant could help bridge the gap between demand for OTR truck driver talent and the limited supply of trained operators. Training schools affiliated with NAPFTDS expect a surge in enrollment once the deadline passes, and several fleet managers have already flagged the program as a potential source of pre‑screened, safety‑focused hires.
Key Points
- FMCSA will accept CMVOST grant applications from NAPFTDS members until 5 p.m. EDT, April 19.
- Each award may provide up to $200,000 for truck driver training programs.
- Grants prioritize U.S. military veterans, National Guard, Reservists, refugees, and under‑represented communities.
- Approximately 15 grants are slated for distribution, covering both accredited and WIOA‑listed non‑accredited schools.
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