FMCSA Opens $217M in Safety and CDL Grants - Apply by June 17, 2026

Key Details The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has announced $217 million in grant funding across four programs focused on trucking safety enforcement, CDL modernization, roadside inspection technology, and military veteran training. Applications are open now with a deadline of June 17, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern. What's Being Funded The High Priority Commercial Motor Vehicle Grant Program targets unsafe driving in crash corridors and improves roadside inspection capabilities. The High Priority Innovative Technology Deployment Grant Program funds automated systems like license plate readers and electronic screening at weigh stations. A third program modernizes Commercial Driver's License testing and administration. The fourth supports career training for military veterans entering trucking. Why It Matters These grants represent FMCSA's push for tighter enforcement controls and better technology infrastructure at the state and local level. For legitimate carriers, improved data systems and automated enforcement mean a more level playing field against operators who exploit outdated paper-based inspection processes. The initiatives work in tandem with FMCSA's new Motus registration system to identify carriers running on suspended authority and drivers with disqualified CDLs. What You Should Know If your state has delayed upgrading inspection technology or needs better safety data systems, these grants can fund those projects. Eligible entities include states, localities, and other organizations. Review the specific program requirements to determine which grants apply to your operation or region.