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 recognize and thank all professional truck drivers for their hard work and commitment in performing one of our economy's most demanding and essential jobs. These 3.5 million professional men and women not only deliver our goods safely, securely, and on time, but they also help keep our highways safe.
This year's National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is September 13–19, 2026. Americans and Canadians have taken extraordinary steps to show their appreciation for the important work professional truck drivers have done as we navigated the coronavirus pandemic. From children handing out lunches to "I ♥ Truck" signs displayed along highways, the public recognized the essential role truck drivers play in our daily lives. As we reflect on those challenging years, it's worth considering where we would have been if truck drivers had refused to deliver personal protective equipment (PPE), food, medical supplies, and countless other essential goods.
This week in September is a small but meaningful way to show appreciation for the 3.5 million professional men and women who not only deliver our goods
safely, securely, and on time, but also help keep our highways safe. Start planning now to do something special for your drivers during this dedicated week of recognition.
Driver Recognition Awards
Driver Appreciation Week is an excellent time to review the award and recognition programs you have in place. It is important to recognize drivers who consistently perform in a safe and compliant manner. Recognition awards are most effective when they acknowledge safe driving and achievements that cannot be earned anywhere else. Ideally, these awards should be personalized and meaningful.
One of the greatest benefits of recognition awards is that they are non-monetary yet have a lasting impact. A driver should not be able to purchase the award on their own. The only way to receive the recognition should be by meeting the established performance requirements. These awards can be made even more meaningful by presenting them in front of peers during meetings, banquets, or other company events.
As a motor carrier, there are several state and national association award programs available for your drivers. Contact your state trucking association to learn more about the recognition programs offered in your area. Additional opportunities are available through organizations such as the American Trucking Associations (ATA) and the National Private Truck Council (NPTC). The NPTC offers programs such as the Driver Hall of Fame and the National Driver All-Stars awards for NPTC members. Visit www.nptc.org to learn more or enroll your drivers.
Driver Incentive Awards
Monetary incentive awards are best used to motivate drivers to achieve specific performance goals. These programs can be highly effective in encouraging drivers to meet objectives such as improving fuel economy or maintaining a clean roadside inspection record.
CVSA Brake Safety Week Scheduled for August 23–29
This year's CVSA Brake Safety Week is scheduled for August 23–29, according to the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA).
The enforcement campaign is part of the larger Brake Safety Awareness Month, which takes place throughout August.
During CVSA's annual enforcement event, roadside inspectors will:
- Focus on brake systems and components while conducting North American Standard Inspections.
- Place special emphasis on brake drums and rotors during this year's inspections.
The CVSA will publish a report on its findings later this year.
Brake Safety Week also provides an excellent opportunity for motor carriers to educate drivers and maintenance personnel about the importance of brake safety and the role proper maintenance plays in preventing crashes and keeping commercial vehicles operating safely.
