Louisiana offering free truck driver training for qualified applicants

The Louisiana Workforce Commission is now offering free truck driver training in an effort to help reduce the perceived driver shortage. 

The program, called “Drive Your Future,” will pay for qualifying students across the state of Louisiana to attend certain truck driving schools in order to earn their CDL. The program will focus on veterans and the underemployed and hopes to get many on their way to a new career, reported ABC 3.

From food to furniture, truck drivers help keep Louisiana’s economy moving,” said LWC Secretary Ava Cates. “The pandemic dealt a blow to the truck driving industry, one critical to our state. This program will help get a new crop of drivers on the road and help keep goods flowing.”

“The truck driver shortage isn’t going away anytime soon, and we have a responsibility to get goods and services to Louisianians in a timely fashion,” said Cates. “The most impactful way LWC can deliver is to get people trained and get drivers behind the wheel.”

The first classes are expected to begin by the end of February at Diesel Driving Academy, Coastal Driving Academy, and South Louisiana Community College. Those interested can click here to apply.