CDL scholarships: where to find money for truck driving school
Updated October 2026
Scholarships can cut what you pay out of pocket, and small awards add up.
Where to look
The school itself: many CDL schools offer their own scholarships or discounts. State trucking associations: many fund scholarships to grow the driver workforce. Industry groups and foundations, including some focused on women, veterans and people changing careers. Community foundations and local employers in your area. Your American Job Center, which often knows about local funding.
Tips for applying
Apply to several, meet every deadline, and write a short, honest statement about why you want to drive and your plans. Beware of any 'scholarship' that asks you to pay a fee.
Useful links
- Find your American Job Center (CareerOneStop, U.S. Department of Labor)
- GI Bill Comparison Tool (VA)
- Fill out the FAFSA (Federal Student Aid)
- Apprenticeship job finder (U.S. Department of Labor)
- Training Provider Registry (FMCSA)
Not sure which programs fit you? Get your free funding plan.
We're not a government agency. Each program sets its own eligibility, and rules can change.
