Nearly every aspect of daily life is made possible because a truck driver delivered the goods and resources people need.

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is an important time for America to pay respect and thank all professional truck drivers for their hard work and commitment in undertaking one of our economy's most demanding and vital jobs. These 3.5 million professional men and women not only deliver our goods safely, securely, and on time — they also help keep our highways safe.

This year, National Truck Driver Appreciation Week will take place September 14–20, 2025. Americans and Canadians have taken extraordinary steps to show their appreciation for the

critical work professional truck drivers perform, especially as we navigated the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic. From children passing out lunches to “I Heart Truck” signs along

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highways, the public has taken notice of the essential role truck drivers play in our lives. As we reflect on the past three years, I often wonder where we would be today if truck drivers had refused to deliver the personal protective equipment (PPE), food, medical supplies — and the list goes on.

This dedicated week in September is a small but meaningful way to express appreciation to the 3.5 million professional men and women who not only deliver our goods safely and on time, but also contribute to safer highways. Start planning now to do something special for your drivers during this week we set aside to recognize them.

Driver Recognition Awards

Driver Appreciation Week is also a great time to review your driver recognition and award programs. It’s important to honor those drivers who have performed in a safe and compliant manner.

Recognition awards are best used to celebrate safe driving. Ideally, these awards should be personalized and not something a driver or employee can obtain anywhere else. The most impactful awards are non-monetary and offer lasting value — something only earned through meeting specific safety requirements.

These awards can be further enhanced when presented in front of peers at meetings, banquets, or similar gatherings.

As a motor carrier, you may also consider enrolling your drivers in state or nationwide association award programs. Contact your state trucking association for a list of available programs. There are also national programs through organizations like:

  • The American Trucking Associations (www.truckline.com)

  • The National Private Truck Council (NPTC) (www.nptc.org), which offers awards such as the Driver Hall of Fame and National Driver All-Stars

Driver Incentive Awards

Monetary incentive awards are best used to motivate drivers to meet specific goals — such as reaching a target fuel mileage or receiving a clean roadside inspection. These programs can be highly effective in encouraging strong, consistent performance.

CVSA Brake Safety Week Scheduled for August 24–30

This year’s Brake Safety Week is scheduled for August 24–30, according to the

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Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA).

This annual enforcement campaign is part of the broader Brake Safety Awareness Month, which runs throughout August.

During Brake Safety Week, roadside inspectors will:

  • Focus on brake systems and components during North American Standard Inspections

  • Place special emphasis this year on brake drums and rotors

CVSA will release a report on its findings later this year.

This event also provides an opportunity for motor carriers to educate their drivers and maintenance providers on the importance of brake system safety.