Military Resources for Maine Trucking

WHAT IS FREEDOM HAULERS?

Freedom Haulers is a national initiative connecting veterans and military service members with the resources they need to build a successful career in the trucking industry. It removes barriers for veterans seeking to join the industry, eliminates redundant testing requirements based on prior knowledge and skill, and allows for streamlined access to employment and funding for service members everywhere to get their CDL and keep America moving.

The Maine Motor Transport Association proudly supports efforts to help Freedom Haulers participants, and our nation’s veterans find meaningful careers in the trucking industry. Maine’s trucking workforce depends on skilled, dedicated professionals, and these individuals bring the work ethic, discipline, and commitment to our industry values. By creating pathways to commercial driving careers, we strengthen our workforce, support our communities, and provide opportunities for long-term, family-sustaining employment across Maine.

YOU MAY ALREADY QUALIFY TO GET YOUR CDL

CDL licensing requires you to pass a knowledge test to get your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) and then go through an Entry Level Driver Training Program and then pass a skills test. Members of the military and certain veterans may qualify to skip both of these steps and might already be eligible for their CDL.

  • Military personnel can use the skills test waiver if currently licensed and are or were employed within the past year (12 months) in a military position requiring the operation of a military motor vehicle equivalent to a commercial motor vehicle.
    • Recent changes to policy have temporarily expanded this window to two years (24 months) post-service. If you fall in this window, act now!
  • Simply have your commander sign off that you meet the requirements and submit the signed waiver with your standard CDL application to Maine BMV .
  • Learn more and get the Military Skills Test Waiver Application

  • The Even Exchange Program allows military members with an MOS that is directly related to trucking and/or operating military vehicles in excess of 26,000 pounds, to waive the requirement for the written test required to obtain a CDL.
  • To qualify for this program, military personnel should have one of the below military occupational specialty or occupational classification:
    • S. Army: 
      • 88M - Motor Transport Operator
      • 92F - Fueler
      • 14T - Patriot Launching Station Operator
    • S. Marine Corps:     
      • 3531 - Motor Vehicle Operator
    • S. Navy:
      • EO - Equipment Operator
    • S. Air Force:            
      • 2TI - Vehicle Operator
      • 2FO - Fueler
      • 3E2 - Pavement and Construction Equipment Operator
  • Maine participates in the “Even Exchange Program” allowing this knowledge test waiver for qualifying individuals.

FINANCIAL AID RESOURCES

  • Pay up to 100% of your CDL training at any program approved by a State Approving Agency.
  • If you are a member of the active component, National Guard, or Reserves you may qualify for GI Bill benefits. Ask your unit administrative NCO or utilize your chain of command to see if you qualify. Or read more about GI Bill eligibility .
  • Learn more.

  • 100% funded by the Maine trucking industry – no State or Federal money, no strings attached.
  • Up to 8 monthly awards for training/certificate/endorsements, up to $2,000/each award.
  • Successful candidates are paid after completion of training and sending proof of residency and course costs.
  • Learn more and apply.

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