Eligibility & City Funding

Check your eligibility and discover funding options that can cover up to 100% of your training costs

Free Eligibility Assessment Available

Basic Eligibility Requirements

To enroll in our CDL Class B + S & P Endorsements program, you must meet the following basic requirements. Don't worry if you're not sure - we'll help assess your eligibility during your free consultation.

Be at least 21 years old
Have a valid New York State driver's license
Clean driving record (no more than 3 points)
Pass DOT physical and drug screening
No disqualifying criminal convictions
Able to lift 50+ pounds and assist students

Not Sure If You Qualify?

Schedule a free consultation with our admissions team. We'll review your background and help determine your eligibility for both the program and available funding options.

Professional consultation meeting

NYC Funding Programs

Take advantage of city and federal funding programs that can significantly reduce or eliminate your training costs

NYC Workforce1 Career Centers

Coverage: Up to 100% of tuition

Comprehensive workforce development program for NYC residents seeking new career opportunities.

Eligibility Requirements:

NYC residents, unemployed/underemployed

Program Benefits:

  • Full tuition coverage
  • Supportive services
  • Job placement assistance

WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act)

Coverage: Up to 100% of tuition

Federal program supporting individuals in career transitions and skill development.

Eligibility Requirements:

Low income, unemployed, displaced workers

Program Benefits:

  • Training costs covered
  • Additional support services
  • Career counseling

NYC HRA Individual Training Account (ITA)

Coverage: Up to $5,000 of tuition

Support for public assistance recipients to gain employable skills and achieve self-sufficiency.

Eligibility Requirements:

Public assistance recipients

Program Benefits:

  • Direct tuition payment
  • Transportation assistance
  • Childcare support

Veterans Benefits (Chapter 31 & 33)

Coverage: Up to 100% of tuition

Educational benefits for qualified veterans pursuing career training and certification.

Eligibility Requirements:

Eligible veterans

Program Benefits:

  • Full coverage
  • Monthly housing allowance
  • Book stipend

Check Your Eligibility - Free

Complete this quick assessment to see which funding programs you may qualify for

Confidential Assessment

All information provided is confidential and will only be used to determine your eligibility for training programs and funding opportunities.

Personal Information

Driving History

Residency & Employment

Background Information

Note: Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you. We evaluate each case individually, and many types of convictions do not prevent employment as a school bus driver.

Funding Application Process

We guide you through every step of the funding application process

1

Eligibility Assessment

Complete our free eligibility assessment to identify potential funding sources

2

Document Preparation

We help gather and prepare all required documentation for your applications

3

Application Submission

Submit applications to appropriate funding programs with our guidance

4

Approval & Enrollment

Once approved, we'll coordinate your enrollment and training start date

Funding Success Stories

See how our students have used city funding to launch their careers

Maria's Story - Workforce1 Funding

"I was unemployed for 8 months when I discovered Empire Driving School. Through Workforce1, I received 100% funding coverage for my CDL training. Within 6 weeks of starting, I had my license and a job paying $28/hour. This program changed my life!"

Total Savings: $2,995 (100% coverage)

James's Story - WIOA Program

"After being laid off from my construction job, I qualified for WIOA funding. Empire Driving School helped me through the entire application process. Now I'm working for Nassau County schools with great benefits and job security."

Total Savings: $2,995 (100% coverage)

Don't Let Cost Stop You

With multiple funding options available, you may qualify for significant financial assistance. Start your eligibility assessment today and discover your options.