Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear signed an emergency regulation on Sept. 29, 2026, waiving the written Commercial Driver's License test for eligible current and former service members, a move aimed at removing an employment barrier for veterans and active-duty military.
The waiver applies to Kentucky residents who operated commercial-style vehicles within the past two years and who hold one of several specified military occupational specialties, including U.S. Army motor transport operators and fuelers, Marine Corps motor vehicle operators, Navy equipment operators, and Air Force vehicle, fueler and pavement equipment operators.
"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," Beshear said. "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 personnel can request an application form from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to seek a waiver of the written knowledge and skills test. Completed forms go to KYTC, with approval or disapproval delivered by mail within 30 days. Approved applicants can 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."
The administration also pointed to its broader support for veterans, including the $53 million Robert E. Spiller Bowling Green Veterans Center, slated to open next week, and legislation simplifying job certification for military spouses. Kentucky also joined the Governor's Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans and Their Families, and a nearly $1 billion Louisville VA Medical Center campus is expected to open in 2027.