National Truck Driver Week 2026

Truck drivers are the backbone of America’s supply chain, ensuring the delivery of essential goods and resources that keep our daily lives running smoothly. National Truck Driver Appreciation Week offers an opportunity to recognize and thank the 3.5 million professional truck drivers for their dedication, reliability, and critical role in supporting the U.S. economy. These men and women deliver goods safely, securely, and on time, while also promoting highway safety across the nation.

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week 2026 will be celebrated from September 13–19. During this annual event, Americans and Canadians honor professional truck drivers for their vital contributions—especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, when their efforts ensured the steady flow of personal protective equipment (PPE), food, medical supplies, and other essential goods. Public displays of gratitude, such as “I ♥ Truck” signs and community support, underscore the indispensable role truck drivers play in everyday life. 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

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is the perfect opportunity for motor carriers to evaluate their driver award and recognition programs. Recognizing truck drivers who consistently demonstrate safe driving and compliance with industry standards not only boosts morale but also promotes a culture of safety. The most effective driver recognition awards highlight outstanding performance and achievements that set drivers apart. Personalizing these awards makes them even more meaningful and memorable.

Non-monetary recognition awards offer long-lasting impact for professional truck drivers and cannot be purchased—they must be earned by meeting clearly defined performance goals. Presenting these awards during company events, meetings, or banquets in front of peers adds to their significance, reinforcing a sense of accomplishment among drivers.

Motor carriers can also take advantage of state and national association award programs to honor their top-performing truck drivers. Reach out to your state trucking association for information about available driver recognition programs. National organizations like the American Trucking Associations (ATA) and the National Private Truck Council (NPTC) offer prestigious programs, including the Driver Hall of Fame and National Driver All-Stars awards. For more details or to nominate your drivers, visit www.nptc.org

Driver Incentive Awards

Monetary truck driver incentive awards are powerful tools for motivating drivers to achieve specific performance benchmarks. These programs encourage professional drivers to reach objectives like increasing fuel efficiency, maintaining clean roadside inspection records, and upholding safety standards, contributing to overall fleet success.

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.