Looking to get your CDL but worried about the costs? Here are the top 10 CDL grants that can help pay for your CDL training.
1. WIOA Grant for CDL Training
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) provides funding for job training programs across the U.S. Under WIOA, the federal government allocates money to states, which then distribute funds to local workforce agencies. These agencies use the money to help job seekers access training and find work.
To qualify for WIOA grants, you must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and meet certain income requirements. In most cases, you must have a family income below the poverty level or 70% of the lower living standard.
To apply, the first step is to contact your local workforce agency to determine if you qualify for WIOA grants in your area.
2. State and Local CDL Training Grants
Many states also offer grants and funding for those looking to obtain their CDL. These grants help cover the costs of CDL training programs so you can get your license without breaking the bank.
Applicants typically need to meet low-income requirements, be unemployed or underemployed, and be looking for work that requires a CDL. Some grants may give priority to veterans, minorities, or residents of certain areas.
The application process varies in each state but usually involves filling out an application, providing information about your financial situation, and detailing your career goals. You may need to apply through your state’s workforce agency or Department of Labor.
3. Vocational Rehab
Vocational Rehabilitation, or VoRehab, helps people with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep jobs. Nearly every state has a VoRehab program funded by state and federal money. The programs offer a wide range of services to those who qualify.
To qualify for VoRehab, you must have a disability that makes it difficult to find or keep a job. Disabilities can include physical or mental impairments, like hearing or vision loss, epilepsy, learning disabilities, or depression. The disability must also result in difficulty working.
To apply for VoRehab, contact your state’s vocational rehabilitation agency. You will need to provide information about your disability and how it impacts your ability to work.
4. Youth Program Grants
Youth Program Grants such as Youth Employment Program, Job Corps Grant, or YouthBuild Grant, provide services to disadvantaged youth, ages 14 to 24. The grants offer programs that teach work skills such as CDL training, provide mentoring and tutoring, offer counseling and mental health services, help with job placement, and more.
Applying for a youth program grant involves contact your local workforce agency to see if you qualify.
5. Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Grants
The Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program provides grants to those who have lost their jobs or had work hours cut due to foreign trade. TAA provides money for things like job training, income support, relocation allowances, and health insurance tax credits. The program helps workers develop skills for new careers and find good jobs.
You must have lost your job or had hours cut due to foreign trade to qualify for TAA. This could be because your company moved operations overseas, trade policies changed, or there was an increase in imports that impacted your employer.
To apply for TAA funding, contact your local American Job Center. They will help determine if you qualify for the program and guide you through the application process
6. Pell Grants
The Pell Grant program provides need-based grants to low-income undergraduate students to help pay for college. Pell Grants do not have to be repaid. To qualify, you must demonstrate financial need. A Pell Grant is money the government provides for students who need it to
To apply for a Pell Grant, you need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA form. You can apply for free. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of receiving an award.
7. SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) Program
SNAP E&T is a federal program that helps SNAP recipients gain skills, training, and work experience, and find employment. The goal is to help people support themselves and their families. Truck driver training typically qualifies for training under SNAP.
Most able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) who receive SNAP benefits qualify for SNAP E&T. To apply for SNAP E&T, contact your local SNAP office. They can determine if you qualify for the program and help enroll you.
8. Unemployment Grants
Unemployment grants are funds provided by federal or state governments to help those who lost their jobs. If you were recently laid off or let go from your job through no fault of your own, you may qualify for unemployment benefits.
To receive unemployment grants, you must meet certain requirements like having worked for a certain period and earned at least a minimum amount. If you meet the basic requirements, you can apply for unemployment grants through your state’s unemployment website or by phone.
Dislocated Worker Grants
Dislocated Worker Grants offer funding for job training programs to help workers who have lost their jobs. As a dislocated worker, you qualify if you’ve been laid off or let go from your job through no fault of your own. To apply, go to Grants.gov or contact your local workforce agency.
10. Veterans Post 9/11 GI Bill®
The Post 9/11 GI Bill (r) offers expanded benefits to veterans who served in the military. This includes tuition for CDL training for veterans. Your GI Bill (r) may allow you to pay for your training and receive additional support.
Some carriers are part of the Military Apprenticeship Program. You may qualify for a monthly education benefit along with the weekly pay from your new position. Your spouse and children may also be eligible for this benefit. If you qualify, apply online for this program.
Conclusion
These top CDL grants can help pay for your trucking career. With the truck driver shortage expected to continue growing in the years ahead, now’s the time to take advantage of this financial assistance to get your CDL.
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