FRANKFORT, Ky. (Sept. 29, 2026) – Gov. Andy Beasher has signed emergency regulation to fast-track Commercial Driver’s Licenses in an effort to help remove an employment barrier for veterans and active-duty military.
The action waives the written CDL test for eligible current and former service members who operated commercial-style vehicles within the past two years, easing their transition into civilian employment.
“Our veterans sacrifice to keep us safe, and it is our sacred duty to make sure they have access to a good job and the same American Dream they’re willing to fight for on our behalf,” said Gov. Beshear. “This step will help remove barriers and ease access to employment for those who’ve bravely and selflessly served, helping them better support their family who sacrificed alongside them. It’s the right thing to do.”
Eligible military personnel can request an application form established by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to request a waiver of written knowledge and skills test.
Completed forms are submitted to KYTC, with notification of approval or disapproval to be delivered by mail within 30 days of submission. Approved applicants can then take their approval form to any KYTC Driver License Regional Office.
“With this action, military members can translate valuable military training and driving experience into a credential that opens doors for careers that help meet national and local transportation needs,” said Transportation Secretary Rebecca Goodman. “It’s the next right step to build upon our existing road test waiver to support more employment opportunities for active-duty or recently discharged service members.”
To be eligible, military personnel must be a resident of Kentucky and have operated commercial-style vehicles within the past two years and have one of the following military occupational specialties or occupational classifications:
U.S. Army:
88M – Motor Transport Operator
92F – Fueler
14T – Patriot Launching Station Operator
U.S. Marine Corps:
3531 – Motor Vehicle Operator
U.S. Navy:
EO – Equipment Operator
U.S. Air Force:
2TI – Vehicle Operator
2FO – Fueler
3E2 – Pavement and Construction Equipment Operator
Interested Kentuckians can learn more and apply at drive.ky.gov.
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