DMV News Releases
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, September 07, 2012
Congressman Cantor Highlights DMV’s Troops to Trucks Program
DMV, Military, Transportation Industry Team-Up to Put Veterans to Work
RICHMOND - Today, Congressman Eric Cantor joined Delegate John Cox, DMV Commissioner Richard D. Holcomb, President and CEO of Estes Express Lines Rob Estes, Jr. and officials from Marine Corps Base Quantico, Fort Lee and the National Guard to highlight the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) new Troops to Trucks program.
Through the Troops to Trucks program, the DMV is helping our men and women in the armed forces find future employment and career opportunities in the transportation industry. The program streamlines the commercial driver’s license (CDL) application process for the military, which is required in Virginia to operate large trucks and buses.
"Too many of our nation’s veterans can’t find jobs when they come home," said Congressman Cantor. "Virginia’s Troops to Trucks program offers a common sense solution that removes burdensome requirements and connects qualified service members with potential private sector employers. We can never repay our men and women in uniform for the incredible sacrifices they make for our country, but with Troops to Trucks we can help our veterans get good paying jobs and take care of their families."
Under the program, military applicants pass only one DMVissued test, the written knowledge exam. The road skills test is waived for these experienced military drivers. That eliminates the burdensome need for them to provide a commercial motor vehicle for the test. After service, these credentialed veterans are potential employees of transportation-related businesses.
"DMV recognizes the need for qualified drivers in the transportation industry," said Commissioner Holcomb. "The Troops to Trucks program is the first of its kind and supports Governor McDonnell’s goal of making Virginia the most military and veteran-friendly state in the nation. We are grateful for Congressman Cantor’s commitment to jobs and the military and his support of this important initiative."
DMV is currently working with Marine Corps Base Quantico and Fort Lee, which serve as third-party testing sites to train additional personnel. Since implementing Troops to Trucks in July 2012, 29 service members have been granted the skills test waiver and received their CDLs.
