Iowa has recently unveiled a groundbreaking initiative, the Iowa Entry-Level Driver Training Program, aimed at tackling the pressing demand for truck drivers within the state. Governor Kim Reynolds announced the program, highlighting its crucial role in bolstering the supply chain and creating new career pathways for Iowans.
“Truck drivers are the unsung heroes of our economy, ensuring goods reach every corner of our state and nation,” stated Governor Reynolds. “Iowa, like many other states, is facing a shortage of skilled truck drivers, and this program is a proactive step towards addressing this challenge. By removing barriers to obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), we are opening doors for individuals seeking rewarding careers in the transportation industry and strengthening our supply chain.”
The Iowa Entry-Level Driver Training Program is backed by a substantial $6 million investment, which will be distributed as grants to eligible organizations. These organizations include employers, non-profits, and related entities that sponsor or collaborate on training programs designed to equip aspiring drivers with the necessary skills and knowledge to pass CDL tests. The program’s core objective is to alleviate the financial burden associated with CDL training, thereby making it more accessible to a wider pool of potential drivers.
Beth Townsend, Director of Iowa Workforce Development, emphasized the dual benefits of the program, stating, “This initiative not only provides individuals with a pathway to obtain a CDL but also empowers employers to cultivate their own talent pipelines. By supporting employer-sponsored training programs, we are enhancing Iowa’s competitiveness in high-demand sectors and ensuring businesses have access to the skilled workforce they need.”
This program arrives at a critical juncture, following the recent implementation of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations. These regulations mandate that all new CDL applicants undergo more comprehensive training, adding to the existing requirements. While these enhanced standards are essential for road safety, they can also increase the cost and time commitment associated with CDL training. The Iowa Entry-Level Driver Training Program is strategically designed to offset these challenges, ensuring that the ELDT requirements do not deter individuals from pursuing careers in trucking.
Grant funding will serve as reimbursement for eligible Iowa organizations that offer entry-level driver training, whether in-house or through partnerships with certified third-party providers. For in-house programs, funds can be used to cover instructor salaries, curriculum development, and vehicle maintenance. Organizations partnering with external training providers can utilize the grants to offset tuition costs for participants.
To be eligible for the program, applicants must be Iowa-based employers, employer consortiums, or non-profit organizations that employ Iowa CDL drivers and provide entry-level driver training either directly or through approved partnerships. Reimbursement is contingent upon documented training completion and successful completion of the CDL exam within 30 days of the training program’s commencement.
Applications for the Iowa Entry-Level Driver Training Program will be accepted via IowaGrants.gov starting December 13, 2022, with a deadline of February 3, 2023.
