Trump unveils Freedom Haulers to hire veteran truck drivers

President Donald Trump announced a new federal initiative on Thursday, July 30, 2026, aimed at recruiting military veterans into the trucking industry while continuing an ongoing crackdown on commercial drivers who do not meet federal licensing or English-language requirements. The "Freedom Haulers" campaign was unveiled at a White House event attended by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins, and Acting Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling.

The initiative is designed to streamline the process for veterans to obtain commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) and connect them with training and employment opportunities. Key policy changes include expanding the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Military Skills Test Waiver, which allows veterans with heavy vehicle military experience to bypass the CDL skills test. The administration is also extending the period after service during which veterans can apply for expedited licensing from one year to two years.

Officials framed the program as a dual-purpose effort to bolster road safety and provide veterans with high-demand careers. They cited ongoing enforcement actions that have removed drivers...