Transitioning service members and military veterans discharged within the past 12 months of service and who are looking to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) may qualify for one of two waivers under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This pathway waives certain testing based on training and experience gained while in the service. For detailed information regarding Kentucky’s application process, visit the Kentucky Department of Transportation’s CDL Section – Division of Driver Licensing.

Application Process

1. Submit a signed and completed waiver application and required documents via email to [email protected]
Note: Waiver application forms have sections for both the applicant and their commanding officer. Both the applicant and commanding officer will need to sign and complete the waiver application form.

Required documents
  • Commercial Driver License Application (TC 94‐32)​
  • Waiver Application (one of the following)
    • Skills Test Waiver (TC 94-167)  – Available to TSMs who have the appropriate military commercial driving training and experience but not the MOS or occupational rating required for the Even Exchange Waiver. The TSM will still be required to take the written knowledge and vision test. 
    • Even Exchange Waiver (TC 94-169) – Available to TSMs who have the appropriate military commercial driving training and experience, and were enlisted as one of the approved MOS or occupational ratings

Occupations that qualify for the Even Exchange Waiver

Branch of ServiceOccupational Classification
Army88M, Motor Transport Operator 
92F, Fueler 
14T, Patriot Launching Station Operator
Air Force2T1, Vehicle Operator 
2F0, Fueler 
3E2, Pavement and Construction Equipment Operator
Marine Corps3531, Motor Vehicle Operator
NavyEO, Equipment Operator
  • Self-Certification Form (TC 94‐169)
  • Medical Certificate (from an FMCSA certified medical examiner)
  • To search for a nationally certified medical examiner, click HERE
  • For medical requirements and FAQs, click HERE
  • Copy of DD214 or proof of military status-active/discharged within the last 12 months
  • Hot File (wants and warrants check) through the applicant’s local circuit clerk – $3.00 fee

2.  Upon receipt and review of the application packet, the CDL Section will contact the applicant’s commanding officer to verify his/her application.

3.  If approved, the applicant will receive a confirmation letter which should be presented to the circuit clerk’s office within the applicant’s county of residence. The circuit clerk will issue the physical driver’s license. 

  • CDL Application Fee – $24.00
  • Written Knowledge Exam (if applicable) – Free 
  • Standard Credentials (non-CDL) – $43.00/8 years
  • Standard original CDL add-on – between $18.75 to $45.00 (pro-rated)
  • Real ID (non-CDL) – $48.00/8 years
  • REAL ID original CDL add-on – between $23.75 to $50.00 (pro-rated)

TSMs wanting to obtain a Real ID or additional CDL classifications and endorsements such as hazardous material, tank, or school bus driver, may be subject to additional requirements, fees, and/or background checks. Click here for more information.

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
200 Mero Street Frankfort, KY 40622
(502) 564-1257 | drive.ky.gov

Commonwealth of Kentucky
Department of Housing,
Buildings and Construction

101 Sea Hero Road
Suite 100 Frankfort, KY 40601-5405

Phone: 502.573.0365
Web site: www.dhbc.ky.gov/

For your convenience, you can access the steps below via a PDF

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