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Troops to Trucks

Troops to Trucks logo Through the Troops to TrucksSM program, DMV is making it easier for personnel trained by the military in the operation of heavy vehicles to obtain civilian commercial driver's licenses (CDL). A commercial driver's license is required in Virginia to operate large trucks and buses.

For more information about obtaining a commercial driver's license, refer to Applying for a CDL, the Troops to TrucksSM flyer, or contact Don Howell, DMV Military Liaison, at either (804) 474-2143 or Donald.Howell@dmv.virginia.gov.

Skills Test Waiver

Effective July 1, 2012, qualified military personnel applying for a Virginia commercial driver's license (CDL) are required to pass only one DMV-issued test (the written CDL knowledge exam), and will not be required to take the road skills test. Waiving the road skills test requirement streamlines the CDL process for service men and women and eliminates the need for them to provide a commercial motor vehicle for the skills test.

In order to qualify for the road skills test waiver, an applicant must:

  • Be a Virginia resident currently holding or eligible for a Virginia driver's license;
  • Be active military or discharged within the past 90 days. The following documents can be submitted as proof of active or discharge status:
    • U.S. Active Duty/Reservist Military ID Card
    • DD-214 (Military Discharge)
    • Enlisted Record and Report of Separation (WD-AGO)
    • Honorable Discharge Certificate (DD-256)
    • Report of Separation and Record of Service (NGB-22)
  • Be certified by their commanding officer or designee as possessing (1) a military operator's permit and (2) at least two years experience driving the same type of vehicle that the applicamt plans to drive with a Virginia CDL. (For a list of CDL vehicle types, refer to CDL Classifications, Restrictions, and Endorsements.)
  • Successfully complete the written knowledge exam, and
  • Possess a safe driving record

In addition, Troops to TrucksSM provides an opportunity for wounded service men and women with missing or impaired limbs to obtain a CDL following a skills performance evaluation by DMV.

Additional Features

To assist military members who lack experience operating heavy vehicles but who are interested in obtaining a Virginia CDL, DMV is partnering with a number of military installations to provide the necessary training. Through this plan, military personnel can receive their CDL training and testing on their military base prior to leaving service.

DMV is also working with various associations to attempt to help those who obtain their Virginia CDL through the program find employment opportunities. Besides easing the transition from military to civilian life, Troops to TrucksSM helps to reduce the trucking industry's shortage of qualified licensed commercial truck drivers.