New Round of Tax Credit Assistance Open to Ohio Commercial Driver's License Training Programs

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) - The Ohio Department of Development today announced applications are now open for the second round of tax credits aimed at lessening the financial burden on companies offering training for commercial drivers.

The Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Training Program gives employers the opportunity to upskill current and future employees in today's high-demand industry.

"Ohio has a long-standing reputation as the heart of manufacturing, and commercial drivers play an essential role in the supply chain," said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. "Through this tax credit, we're ensuring that employers have the skilled workforce they need to keep distribution running smoothly while helping to keep their costs down."

Employers of all sizes and industries registered to do business in Ohio and who employ Ohio resident W-2 employees are eligible to apply. Employers can earn tax credits for half of approved training costs, up to $25,000 in tax credits.

The current application round opened Oct. 1 and closes Dec. 1. Applications are reviewed and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

The tax credit applies to the credentialing of both current and prospective employees. Eligible training can be conducted by external training providers on the Ohio-approved CDL course provider list or internal qualified training instructors. Credentials must be for Class A or Class B state-issued CDLs and endorsements.

The CDL Training Program was established in Ohio House Bill 66 in the 134th Ohio General Assembly and offers tax credits up to $1.5 million for each calendar year. Applications are released once annually, for calendar years 2023 through 2026.

In the first round of tax credits announced in April 2024, more than $800,000 was awarded to 60 companies in 36 counties to support the training of approximately 1,300 CDL drivers.

This program is in addition to a series of CDL improvements for Ohio truck drivers, initiated by Lt. Governor Jon Husted's InnovateOhio.

The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio's people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at https://development.ohio.gov/.