Biden-Harris Administration Announces Grants to Improve the Commercial Driver’s Licensing Process and Get More Safe Truck Drivers on the Road

the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced it will award approximately $48 million in grant funding to increase commercial driver’s license (CDL) driver training opportunities and continue to improve the process to obtain a CDL.

Understanding FMCSA Grants

FMCSA makes grant funding available for projects that support our safety mission and welcomes highway safety stakeholders to apply for discretionary grants to reduce the number and severity of crashes and hazardous materials incidents involving CMVs. Through research, technology, and enforcement, FMCSA grantees use their knowledge and expertise to improve safety on our Nation’s roadways, in alignment with the U.S. Department of Transportation Strategic Plan and National Roadway Safety Strategy.

Grants are available for colleges and universities, State governments, training providers, non-profit organizations, and more. Goals, criteria, and eligibility differ for each grant program. Individuals are not eligible.

You can also visit the Grants Resource Center to search for trainings, guidance, tools, and more.

Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program Grant

Provides financial assistance to State and local law enforcement agencies.

High Priority Grants

Financial assistance to enhance CMV safety-related activities and supports advancements in technological capabilities.

Commercial Driver's License Program Implementation Grant

Seeks to improve highway safety by supporting CDL Programs on a State and National level.

Commercial Motor Vehicle Operator Safety Training Grant

Seeks to expand the number of CDL holders possessing enhanced operator safety training.

Get Started with the Grant Funding Process Anytime

FMCSA grants adhere to an established federal grant funding process designed to serve America’s public’s interest, and ensure that competitions are open and fair.

The timeline for the grant funding process (known as the grants life cycle) is:

Pre-Award Phase - Funding Opportunities and Application Review
Award Phase - Award Decisions and Notifications
Post Award - Implementation, Reporting, and Closeout

Notice of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) can be release anytime during the year. FMCSA strives to announce in the first quarter, but no later than the fourth quarter. Regardless of timing, preparing a compelling grant application can happen year-round.

Training and Resources for Grant Writers and Administrators

FMCSA oﬀers webinars, funding conferences and other training resources to help you prepare your application, and if successful, manage your grant award.

To broaden participation and the beneﬁt of FMCSA’s Grant Program, applicants must comply with Title VI and related nondiscrimination authorities. Having an approved FMCSA Title VI Plan is part of the grant application process. For guidance on this step, grant writers and administrators can access available resources including past or upcoming FMCSA Title VI Compliance webinars.