USDOT announces $118 million in grants aimed at stronger CDL standards, better enforcement, and veteran pathways
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Transportation announced $118 million in competitive grant awards on Dec. 30, 2025, directing the funding to state and local partners to strengthen commercial driver’s license (CDL) standards, enhance enforcement efforts, and support military veterans moving into trucking careers.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the funding is intended to improve safety-related oversight tied to CDLs while also helping build clearer pathways for veterans to transition into the trucking workforce.
For working drivers, these types of grants matter because CDL standards and enforcement practices are often carried out at the state and local level. When states have more resources, it can affect how consistently rules are applied, how quickly licensing-related processes move, and how effectively problem operators are identified and addressed.
The announcement frames the grants around three main priorities:
- Strengthening CDL safety standards
- Enhancing enforcement connected to commercial driving and licensing
- Supporting veterans as they transition into trucking careers
USDOT described the awards as competitive grants for state and local partners, positioning the funding as a way to reinforce the systems that sit behind commercial licensing and roadside enforcement, while also addressing workforce entry for former service members.