From Unemployment to CDL via WIA @ HACC

Sorry it didn't work out, JJ. A little of my story.
I approached my local WIA and was told that the Technical School, county operated, does the CDL teaching and testing. The cost was not high enough for WIA to be involved or to fund, and the school itself would do Financial Aid.
Went to the school, did the TABE, got the CDL Manual and visited the Financial Aid Office. Was told to do the FSA, Federal Student Aid Free Application on the 'net.
Did the FSA. Funny thing, the school uses it to obtain a state grant for the CDL students, apparently all qualify, based on income level, etc. Took 2-3 days for a response from FSA.
Needed driving record from DMV, had to study for and take the written part of the CDL test, and pass and then got Learner's Permit.
All the above took 3 weeks or so, the studying and taking the test part.
My cost for the course is the Registration fee and books, total $200.00. The balance is paid for by the State Grant, NOT A LOAN, a grant.
I would be a little surprised if this is not similar in other states, assuming they have adult 'technical schools'; here I'm not referring to Community Colleges, which we also have.
The course here is nine weeks full time.
Just thought I would outline my experience as it may be of some help in aiding others.
It did take a little foot work and persistence, and only after I passed the written.
All the best JJ and to all who are 'in the fight'

 

I just finally got approval for my CDL training via WIA. It took 6 weeks to get approval and the only reason I finally got it was because I did research and found that veterans with low income are the highest priority. Took basically one day after I contacted them telling them I found that out.

They pay the entire program plus the CDL licensing, physical and DOT drug test.

My advice to anyone who is attempting to get their CDL through WIA is to not wait for approval. You need to keep on top of it if you want it. This shows them that your dedicated and makes them more likely to want to want to help you. Veterans make sure you pursue this. We spent part of our life defending the country may as well get the benefits from it.

 

I am hoping to get WIA here in PA and go to HACC CDL course. Still need to visit a career link office to see if I qualify. Hopefully I do, we'll see.

 

Smith and Soloman has locations in PA and accepts whatever WIA pays

 

Late note on this thread - I'm researching schools and using WIA for costs - called the local CareerLink office in PA and told due to the PA budget being at an impasse there was no funding temporarily and to check back later in January! Bummer!

 

I was given the same information: Check back later this month. Checking back later this month doesn't help when the bills are due this week...

 

Yea, no funding for any training. I was told to go to a community college presentation and wait as well.

 

I was there today when some guy called about using the WIA to get his CDL. They haven't passed the budget yet, and are telling people to try back in mid February.

 

I went to a WIOA Information Session at the Pennsylvania Career Link Office on North Cameron Street yesterday (1/11/2016), and that's the message they're giving everyone who attended: Try back in mid February. I hope they mean February 2016.

 

Waiting
It's
Always waiting