Hampton Roads, VA — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has awarded Tidewater Community College a $102,769 federal grant to expand its Truck Driving program for veterans and their spouses. The funding will allow the college’s Center for Military and Veterans Education to keep the program tuition‑free for participants.
Since 2014, Tidewater has enrolled 245 veterans and spouses in its 16‑credit, one‑semester certificate course. The program blends state‑of‑the‑art simulators that replicate a range of road and weather conditions with 140 hours of on‑road training. Students complete coursework in 16 weeks and qualify to sit for the Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) exam administered by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. Because CDLs are issued by each state, the curriculum is tailored to Virginia’s licensing requirements, ensuring graduates can pass both the written and skills tests.
The grant will cover the cost of the one‑semester course, which includes simulator access, on‑road instruction, and instructor travel to the DMV test site. After finishing the program, Tidewater instructors escort students to the DMV for the final skills exam, which covers backing maneuvers and a live‑traffic road test. The Center for Workforce Solutions in Suffolk offers classes year‑round, with sessions during the day, evenings and weekends to accommodate working veterans and spouses.
What This Means for Drivers
Veterans and their spouses who complete the program receive a 16‑credit certificate that qualifies them for the Class A CDL, the license required for long‑haul, regional and OTR truck driving. The free tuition removes a major financial barrier, allowing more military personnel to transition into trucking careers. The 140 hours of hands‑on training and simulator practice prepare graduates for the demanding conditions of commercial driving, potentially reducing on‑the‑road incidents and improving safety metrics. Fleet managers will find these drivers already trained in Virginia’s specific CDL requirements, shortening onboarding time and cutting training costs.
Industry Reaction
Carriers across the region have welcomed the initiative, noting the growing demand for qualified CDL‑A holders. Veteran advocacy groups applaud the partnership, citing the program’s role in providing stable employment for former service members. The FMCSA’s investment aligns with its broader strategy to address driver shortages and enhance safety through targeted training programs.
Key Points
- FMCSA grants $102,769 to Tidewater Community College’s Center for Military and Veterans Education.
- Program is tuition‑free for 245 veterans and spouses enrolled since 2014.
- Course includes 16 credits, 140 hours of on‑road training, and simulator experience.
- Graduates qualify for Virginia Class A CDL and receive hands‑on skills exam support.
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