Emerge Career

The First NYC Free CDL Cohort Is Full — Let’s Open More Doors Together

All spots for our first free CDL cohort are filled—but the next one is coming soon. If you’ve already gotten your permit, you’re at the top of the list. We’re working to secure more funding to keep the program free, and you can help speed things up by showing your support to the City Council.

April 23, 2025

Starting your CDL journey isn’t easy—but you’ve already come so far. Thank you for your commitment, your time, and your belief in what we’re building together.

We’ve got a big update: All the scholarship spots in our first free NYC CDL cohort are now filled.

Hundreds of people applied, and the first group is already training and landing jobs starting at $70K+. That’s an incredible win—for them, for their families, and for the city.

What Happens Next?

Because of how successful this first cohort has been, the Mayor’s team is ready to fund even more scholarships. But here’s the thing: to make that happen, the NYC City Council needs to approve the next round of funding.

That’s where you come in.

How You Can Help (In Just One Click)

We’ve made it super simple: with one click, you can send a message to City Council urging them to support this program. We already wrote the message—all you have to do is hit send.

👉 [Click here to email City Council]

(It takes less than a minute and can make a real difference.)

While You Wait…

Even though the next cohort isn’t open yet, you can keep moving forward. Use the Emerge app to study and pass your CDL permit exam. That way, you’ll be first in line and ready to go as soon as new seats open up.

This program isn’t just about getting your license—it’s about opening doors to a whole new future. And you’re a vital part of making that future real—for yourself, and for the next round of students behind you.

Thanks for being part of this movement. It takes a village—and we’re so proud you’re in ours.

— The Emerge Team

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What Conditions and Medications Might Disqualify You from a DOT Medical Exam?

April 19, 2025

If you're preparing to get your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), one key step you'll face is the Department of Transportation (DOT) medical examination. The DOT physical assesses your health to ensure you can safely operate commercial vehicles. However, certain medical conditions or medications can disqualify you from obtaining DOT certification. Here's a general overview to help you understand what might impact your eligibility. Important Notice: We're not medical doctors, and this article is intended for general informational purposes only. Always consult a certified DOT physician to confirm your specific eligibility for a DOT medical exam.

How to Get Prepared for CDL Training Behind-The-Wheel

April 12, 2025

Preparing for your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) behind-the-wheel training might seem overwhelming at first. However, with the right mindset and a focused practice routine, you can master every skill required for a safe and successful test. In this article, we break down the process into four key sections: Pre-Trip, Air Brakes, Maneuvers, and Road Driving.