President Donald Trump has announced plans to make some veterans automatically eligible for commercial driver licenses (CDLs). This proposal aims to allow veterans who have driven heavy trucks in the military to easily transition into professional driving careers. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) currently has an "Even Exchange Program" that provides a knowledge-test waiver for military veterans, but this new proposal would further streamline the process. Trump cited concerns over undocumented foreign truckers and emphasized the importance of replacing them with American veterans. For oversize operators, this proposal may lead to an increased pool of qualified drivers, potentially easing staffing challenges.
The FMCSA determines CDL requirements, but states issue the licenses. Currently, 56% of states have implemented the "Even Exchange Program". The proposal is still in the planning stages, and no implementation date has been announced.