The scholarship is specifically available to students enrolling in the college’s Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) program, located at its Benton Harbor campus.

“Employers and job providers have told us short-term training opportunities like the LMC Truck Driving School and the Marine Maintenance Technology program are in high demand,” explained Doug Schaffer, Vice President of Advancement and Community Impact. “Those programs, however, are not eligible for traditional financial aid like Pell grants or state scholarship programs. This is the LMC Foundation stepping in to fill a significant need in our community to help students with career opportunities.”

The CDL program, a cornerstone of LMC’s short-term training offerings, is conducted in partnership with Regen Trucking School. Students can complete all requirements in just three weeks at the South Haven campus. Additionally, the Marine Maintenance Technology program, a recent addition to LMC’s lineup, is also included in the scholarship initiative.

Jeremy Burleson, Associate Dean of the South Haven Campus and Select Academic Programs, highlighted the importance of this funding: “We have a great deal of interest in truck driving, but the stumbling block has been the lack of financial aid for students. The Lake Michigan College Foundation is paving the way for high-paying jobs, and we are grateful to LMC donors and leaders for again removing barriers for people in our community. This is great news for our region and our students.”

By addressing the financial challenges that often accompany short-term training programs, Lake Michigan College is opening doors to lucrative career paths for individuals in Southwest Michigan.

Image Source: Lake Michigan College
Source: Truckers News

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The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has announced the availability of nearly $90 million in grants for states and organizations running commercial driver’s license (CDL) programs. These grants aim to enhance compliance with federal safety regulations and ensure the integrity of the National CDL Program, which works to maintain a safe and qualified driver workforce on the road.

This program, which awarded $55.1 million in CDL Program Implementation (CDLPI) grants last year despite $84 million being available, has seen an increase in funding to $89.4 million for 2025. Eligible applicants include state, county, and city governments; public and private educational institutions; non-profits; small businesses; and other entities. Historically, the majority of these funds have gone to state Departments of Transportation and motor vehicle departments.

Safeguarding the Roads with the National CDL Program

FMCSA’s National CDL Program is built on the principle of “One Driver. One License. One Record.” This approach is crucial for maintaining accurate driver histories and preventing unsafe drivers from exploiting system loopholes. The program’s focus aligns with FMCSA’s overarching goal of improving highway safety across all states by ensuring only skilled and qualified individuals hold CDLs.

Key Program Changes for 2025

Significant changes have been made to the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for 2025 grants. The FMCSA has removed provisions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and climate change considerations that were part of the evaluation criteria during the previous administration.

Under the prior guidelines, applicants were encouraged to integrate considerations like energy efficiency, environmental impact, and opportunities for underserved communities into their proposals. These criteria included evaluations of projects promoting energy efficiency, environmental protections, and equity-focused hiring or outreach plans. For example, projects that included electric vehicle purchases or strategies targeting underserved communities would receive added attention.

Moving forward, FMCSA will base funding decisions on merit, using criteria such as technical merit, budget cost analysis, program-specific metrics, past performance, and other review-based criteria. The DEI and climate change provisions, previously grouped under “Other Review Information,” will no longer be part of funding evaluations.

Applying for 2025 Grants

Organizations aiming to access these funds must demonstrate the merit of their projects in alignment with FMCSA’s updated evaluation categories. By reinforcing technical and program-specific excellence, the FMCSA is focusing exclusively on operational improvements and measurable outcomes.

This adjustment reflects the evolving priorities of the FMCSA as it works to streamline the grant application process and ensure that funding directly addresses safety and operational integrity within the trucking industry.

For more information and detailed guidelines, organizations are encouraged to review FMCSA’s full list of Merit Evaluation Criteria and NOFO updates for 2025.

These grants offer a vital opportunity for states and organizations to strengthen their CDL programs while contributing to the safety and efficiency of the nation’s roadways.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

The post $90 Million Available for CDL Training in 2025 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

What Are Doubles?

Doubles mean pulling two trailers connected by a converter dolly behind a tractor. This setup is common in Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) freight, allowing carriers to move more freight per trip. A higher level of skill and attention is demanded because doubles are longer and heavier than single trailers.

CDL Endorsements and Training

To haul doubles legally in the U.S., drivers need a Doubles/Triples endorsement, often called the T endorsement, on their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This involves passing a written knowledge test specific to handling doubles and triples, covering safe coupling, air brake systems, and more.

While a formal behind-the-wheel test for doubles is not always required, many companies offer or require specialized training to help drivers get comfortable with the unique demands of doubles.

Benefits of Driving Doubles

• Increased Earning Potential: Due to the added responsibility and complexity, doubles drivers typically earn more than those hauling single trailers. According to recent data, experienced doubles drivers can make upwards of $90,000 annually depending on region and employer.
• Efficiency: Hauling two trailers can mean fewer trips for the same amount of freight, improving fuel efficiency and delivery speed in some operations.
• Skill Development: Mastering doubles improves your overall driving skills, especially with backing, turning, and spatial awareness.

Challenges to Keep in Mind

• Maneuverability: Doubles are longer and less forgiving in tight spaces. Navigating city streets, sharp turns, and parking requires patience and practice.
• Parking and Rest Stops: Finding parking spots that can accommodate doubles can be tough, so planning rest breaks becomes even more critical.
• Weather Sensitivity: Because doubles have a larger surface area, they can be more affected by wind and slippery conditions.

Driving doubles isn’t for every trucker, but for those looking to advance their career and increase earnings, it’s a valuable skill set. If you’re considering this path, focus on getting the proper T endorsement and seek out quality training. Always prioritize safety, plan your routes carefully, and take your time mastering the maneuvering challenges doubles bring.

The post What Every CDL Driver Should Know Before Hauling Double Trailers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

This urgent development stems from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) decision in April to remove two chiropractors, Dr. Jenny Le and Dr. Dustin Mai, from its National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. Both individuals, based in Houston, have been cited for failing to conduct DOT physicals in compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.

Impact on Drivers

The removal of Dr. Le and Dr. Mai has affected 15,225 commercial motor vehicle operators who received medical examinations from them between March 2023 and March 2025. FMCSA has sent letters to these drivers alerting them to obtain a new medical certificate by May 10, 2025, to avoid their CDL being downgraded. State driver’s license agencies will initiate proceedings to downgrade licenses for drivers who fail to meet this requirement.

FMCSA’s Response

On April 11, FMCSA formally removed Dr. Le and Dr. Mai from the National Registry. The agency emphasized the importance of compliance in medical certifications, saying that the two chiropractors did not adhere to DOT regulations during their examinations.

“FMCSA’s primary mission is to enhance safety on our nation’s roadways,” said FMCSA Chief Counsel Jesse Elison in a statement. “Removing non-compliant medical examiners from the National Registry is a necessary step to maintain the integrity of the medical certification process and ensure that only qualified, properly trained professionals are certifying the physical qualifications of commercial motor vehicle drivers.”

FMCSA also revealed it requested an investigation by the DOT’s Office of Inspector General due to the unusually high volume of medical certifications issued by the pair over several years. The inquiry confirmed that Dr. Le and Dr. Mai had not applied the required medical standards.

What Drivers Need to Know

Drivers impacted by this action must act quickly and schedule a new DOT physical with a certified medical examiner. FMCSA maintains a searchable database of approximately 38,000 certified medical examiners on its official website, helping drivers locate a qualified professional in their area.

Protect Your CDL

To safeguard their livelihoods and comply with federal safety standards, affected drivers are urged to prioritize scheduling a new physical before the deadline. Missing this crucial step could lead to a suspension of driving privileges, impacting their careers and crucial logistics operations nationwide.

Visit the FMCSA website to find certified medical examiners near you and ensure your compliance today.

Source: Land Line

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During a recent congressional subcommittee hearing, Lewie Pugh, Executive Vice President of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), stressed the need for more stringent training requirements for new truck drivers.

“In trucking, it’s just a matter of passing a test and getting a CDL, and then you can go anywhere in this country,” Pugh explained to lawmakers. “You take a kid who’s 21 years old. He’s never been out of Florida, and, all of a sudden, he’s heading to the Rocky Mountains in January. We’re probably setting ourselves up for disaster.”

Current Training Standards Lack Depth

Before 2022, entry-level truck drivers weren’t required to meet any formal training standards. Although the introduction of a new rule that year was a step forward, it still falls short. Drivers are not mandated to complete a minimum number of behind-the-wheel training hours.

OOIDA believes that a competent, well-trained driver is the key to improved highway safety. The association has called on Congress to strengthen these training requirements in the upcoming highway bill by introducing a minimum of 30 hours of practical, behind-the-wheel training for new truck drivers.

“We need to make the entry-level driver training program much more aggressive with real hours and real time behind the wheel so that these people are trained and trained correctly to be professional,” Pugh stated. “Until we take the time to invest in our drivers and do all of these things, we are going to continue to lose people from this industry.”

Congressional Support for Safer Roads

Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton, D-D.C., voiced her agreement with the need for intense training standards. She emphasized how the upcoming highway bill presents an opportunity for Congress to enhance safety across the trucking industry.

“I have long supported strong entry-level truck driver training standards to ensure that truckers are fully prepared to safely operate their vehicles and deliver their freight,” she said. “Providing robust training empowers drivers to be safe and confident on the road.”

Fostering Truck Driving as a Long-Term Career

Cole Scandaglia, transportation policy advisor at the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, noted how more substantial training standards could elevate truck driving from just a job to a respected career.

Congress has a responsibility to ensure that the industry provides adequate preparation for newcomers, said Scandaglia.

“[Congress must ensure] that when drivers enter the industry, they’re entering the industry in a way that is going to ensure that this is a career for them,” he explained. “Unfortunately, there are people who go to fly-by-night CDL schools, and they get their CDL in six weeks. They show up to work, and it turns out they can’t back into a dock. That’s a problem, and that person is not likely to stay in the industry.

“So, from Congress’s perspective, I think there are things that can be done in the training sense. Unfortunately, a piece of what we need here is a private-sector response. We need trucking companies to not look at employees as folks you just churn through the meat grinder and then replace them again when they quit.”

Investing in Training for a Safer Future

A consistent theme emerged throughout the hearing: adequate training for truck drivers isn’t just about meeting minimum standards; it’s about prioritizing safety, professionalism, and career sustainability. By addressing the gaps in current training programs and introducing more robust requirements, Congress and the trucking industry can make meaningful progress toward safer roads and a stronger workforce.

With stakeholder advocacy from organizations like OOIDA and the Teamsters, the push for improved driver training standards could transform trucking into a safer, more sustainable, and more respected profession.

Source: Land Line

The post OOIDA Urges Lawmakers to Adopt Stronger Truck Driver Training Standards appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Minimum Age Guidelines

Your age determines whether you qualify for a CDL. These requirements differ based on the type of driving you intend to do:

• Interstate Driving (crossing state lines) requires you to be at least 21 years old.

• Intrastate Driving (within a single state) allows individuals aged 18 and up to obtain a CDL.

Medical Disqualifications

Certain medical conditions can make you ineligible for a CDL. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) outlines specific criteria under 49 CFR 391.41 that applicants must meet. Common medical issues that may disqualify you include:

• Hearing Impairments – Failure to meet federal hearing standards.

• Vision Problems – Not meeting required eyesight levels.

• Epilepsy or Seizures – A history of epilepsy or seizures.

• Diabetes Requiring Insulin – Using insulin to manage diabetes.

That said, exemptions can sometimes be granted. Consult a certified medical examiner to assess your eligibility and explore any possible waiver options.

Substance Abuse History

A record of drug or alcohol abuse can disqualify you from obtaining a CDL. The FMCSA has strict regulations to ensure commercial drivers remain free from substances that impair their judgment or ability to drive safely. Failing drug or alcohol screenings during the application process, or having unresolved violations related to substances, can jeopardize your chance of earning or keeping your CDL.

Traffic Violation History

Your driving record is a significant factor in CDL eligibility. Serious traffic offenses may disqualify you, including:

• Excessive Speeding (15 mph or more over the limit).

• Reckless Driving—showing careless disregard for safety.

• Unsafe Lane Changes—frequent or improper lane switching.

• Tailgating—following other vehicles too closely.

• Traffic-Related Fatalities—committing offenses that result in fatal accidents.

Repeat violations over time can lead to extended periods of disqualification. Demonstrating a history of responsible driving is essential.

Criminal Convictions

Certain criminal convictions may bar you from obtaining a CDL, depending on their nature and severity. Disqualifying crimes include:

• Felonies Committed with a Commercial Vehicle – Using a truck to commit major offenses.

• Drug Offenses – Convictions involving controlled substances.

• Crimes Endangering Public Safety – Examples include vehicular manslaughter or other offenses posing risks to others.

The time elapsed since the conviction and its relevance to driving safety will likely influence any eligibility determinations.

Legal Work Authorization

Only individuals with the legal right to work in the U.S. are eligible for a CDL. Acceptable proof includes being a U.S. citizen, holding permanent residency, or maintaining a valid work visa. You’ll need to submit evidence of your legal status during the application process.

Staying Prepared for CDL Eligibility

Securing a CDL means meeting clear federal and state guidelines. Understanding potential disqualifications—whether related to your age, health, driving record, or legal status—is the first step to achieving a commercial driving career. Be proactive, address any outstanding issues, and consult a certified medical examiner or legal professional if needed.

A career in trucking offers incredible opportunities, but ensuring compliance with necessary regulations will help set you on the right course for success.

The post Disqualifications That Could Stop You from Getting a CDL appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A Career-Boosting Opportunity

“Our CDL program is a short-term path preparing students for the CDL Class A licensing exam,” shared Molly Carney, executive director at Miller-Motte College in Raleigh. “By completing this curriculum, students can jumpstart a career path that is flexible, dependable, and important to keep our economy moving.”

This four-week training equips students with the skills to excel on the road and at pickup or delivery locations. The curriculum covers essential topics such as vehicle inspections, defensive driving, range maneuvers, motor carrier safety regulations (DOT 380-397 and certification for entry-level drivers), trip planning, cargo handling, size/weight laws, and accident prevention. Training is delivered entirely at the college’s facilities using school-provided equipment, ensuring students are prepared for real-world scenarios.

Meeting Industry Needs

If you’re wondering who needs a CDL Class A license, it applies to those operating vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, with towed vehicles exceeding 10,000 pounds. This designation is vital for driving tractor-trailers, tanker vehicles, flatbeds, truck-and-trailer combinations, and livestock carriers.

Upon completing the program and passing the CDL exam, graduates can immediately access a variety of roles in the transportation sector. With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 5% growth in employment for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers between 2023 and 2033, resulting in approximately 100,000 job openings annually, this certification opens doors to a stable and crucial career path.

Nationwide CDL Training Access

Miller-Motte College is just one of Ancora Education’s many campuses offering CDL programs. Ancora operates over 200 locations, connecting aspiring professionals to quality training across institutions such as Miller-Motte Driving Institute, South Texas Vocational Technical Institute, and Arizona Automotive Institute. Beyond campuses, Ancora collaborates with community colleges, corporates, and government organizations to make CDL training widely available.

Enroll Today

Miller-Motte College’s CDL Class A program begins February 3, 2025, for weekday courses, and February 22, 2025, for weekend sessions. Enrollment is currently open, so whether you are looking to kickstart a career in trucking or seeking a career change, this four-week program offers a fast and reliable path to industry certification.

For more information or to sign up, visit miller-motte.edu.

Source: The Trucker

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Starting November 18, state driver licensing authorities will be mandated to revoke the CDL or CLP privileges of individuals listed as “prohibited” in the FMCSA’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. To regain these privileges, affected drivers must meet “return-to-duty requirements.”

The FMCSA’s updates to the Clearinghouse rules were implemented in two phases. The first phase, effective from 2020, obligated employers to check the Clearinghouse for drug and alcohol violations among current and potential employees before allowing them behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle. Employers must also perform annual checks on current employees.

The second phase enforces state driver licensing agencies to:

• Access the Clearinghouse before issuing, renewing, upgrading, or transferring CDLs and before issuing or upgrading CLPs.

• Examine a driver’s records upon receiving notification from FMCSA about a status change in the Clearinghouse.

FMCSA asserts that this rule “will improve the enforcement of the current driving prohibition by requiring that states refrain from issuing, renewing, transferring or upgrading the CLP or CDL of affected drivers.”

According to the September 2024 Clearinghouse Report, 178,839 CLP and CDL holders currently have a prohibited status, with 136,224 yet to initiate the return-to-duty process.

After the November 18 compliance deadline, drivers maintaining a prohibited status may face fines or other obligations imposed by the state of their CDL issuance before resuming their commercial driving rights.

It’s crucial to understand that the compliance date signifies when states must adhere to the new rule, not necessarily when they will start downgrading licenses. States with legislative permission can voluntarily query the Clearinghouse and downgrade the licenses of prohibited drivers before the official compliance date.

The CMCI, part of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association’s drug and alcohol consortium, notes that states such as Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, North Carolina, and Texas have already initiated this process.

Source: Land Line

The post New Regulations Could Lead to CDL and CLP Revocations for Thousands of Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Recently, the FMCSA awarded a $2 million grant to New Jersey at a ceremony held at the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission’s Road Testing Location in Delanco. This funding aims to enhance accessibility to commercial driver’s license (CDL) testing across the state, particularly in rural areas.

Vinn White, FMCSA Deputy Administrator, emphasized the importance of the grant, stating, “We want CDL testing to be accessible to anyone who is willing to learn and earn that driver’s license. Commercial Driver’s License Program Implementation grants can help break down barriers for people seeking to earn or renew their CDL. There’s no better example of that than the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission’s mobile testing unit.”

Statewide Impact of the Mobile CDL Testing Program

With this grant, New Jersey will roll out a mobile CDL testing initiative, purchase necessary vehicles, and upgrade existing CDL skills test sites. The goal is to expand testing capacity and accommodate larger commercial vehicles, offering greater accessibility for aspiring bus and truck drivers statewide.

This initiative places New Jersey among 30 states benefiting from the FMCSA’s $55.1 million allocation for the Commercial Driver’s License Program Implementation Grant, which is designed to boost highway safety both locally and nationally.

Broader Implications and Additional Grants

Several other states also received substantial funding. For instance, the Arizona Department of Transportation was awarded $1.87 million to enhance CDL skills testing locations, improving safety conditions for both applicants and examiners.

Additionally, Kansas State University received $1.83 million to establish a CDL court docket, setting a precedent for handling traffic-related offenses involving CDL holders in Kansas and beyond.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy highlighted the broader advantages of the funding, noting that it will facilitate better access to training and testing resources. “This investment reflects our commitment to building a stronger and safer driving community in New Jersey,” Murphy stated.

State Assemblywoman Andrea Katz added, “We create a lot of great programs in Trenton and in D.C., but getting them out to the people who need them and can utilize them is a challenge. These mobile testing units that are going to be dispatched all over the state are going to help ensure that our CMV drivers have the knowledge to drive safely on our roads and turnpikes, particularly in my district, which includes large rural areas.”

Mobile CDL Testing Program Implementation

The mobile testing units will facilitate CDL skills and knowledge assessments at remote locations, utilizing two specialized teams and trucks. Coordination with over 550 school districts and driving schools is planned to maximize the outreach and effectiveness of this initiative.

Jim Ferguson, Central Operations Director at the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, expressed optimism about the program’s potential, saying, “This is going to be a game changer for our delivery of CDL testing across the state of New Jersey. While we currently offer bulk skills testing remotely outside of our road test facilities, this grant will enable us to also offer knowledge tests and to bring our testing capabilities to communities anywhere in the state on a regular basis.”

Source: Transport Topics

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For a long time, Walmart associates have admired the vital role of the company’s Private Fleet—a dedicated team exceeding 13,000 drivers who ensure timely and efficient delivery of goods. Many associates have shown interest in becoming drivers themselves. However, the financial and time requirements of obtaining a CDL often seemed daunting.

Enter Walmart’s Fleet Development program. Initially launched to offer supply chain associates a streamlined path to earn their CDL and join Walmart’s Private Fleet as drivers, this initiative is now extending its reach. Associates in retail stores, distribution hubs, fulfillment centers, and transport offices near participating transportation facilities can now apply for the Associate-to-Driver program.

This comprehensive 12-week training, guided by seasoned Walmart driving instructors, provides hands-on experience. Participants who complete the program and earn their CDL can step into one of the most desirable roles in the industry. Walmart notes that new drivers have the potential to earn up to $110,000 in their first year, with earnings increasing based on location and tenure.

Among the latest success stories is Levor Franklin, who completed his training in Dover, Delaware. He now fulfills his aspiration of being a Walmart truck driver.

Walmart drivers are trained to uphold standards of safety, courtesy, and pride in their work. This dedication to safety has been recognized by the American Trucking Association, which has awarded Walmart the title of Safest Fleet in the Over 250 Million Mile Division for six consecutive years. By offering premier training from the outset, Walmart not only cultivates a skilled team but also sustains high standards for safety and customer service.

This program offers mutual benefits. Associates can progress in their careers without leaving Walmart, the company strengthens its workforce, and customers continue to receive reliable service from one of the largest private fleets in the industry.

Aspiring drivers can find more information at drive4walmart.com.

Source: Walmart

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