Be a Driver and Help Veterans
- Laird Culver
- Jan 29
- 5 min read
The Need for DAV Van Drivers: Your Opportunity to Serve Those Who Served
As we move into February 2026, a time often associated with acts of kindness and service, there's a critical need in our communities that many are unaware of: the urgent requirement for volunteer van drivers to support our nation's veterans. Every day, veterans across the country struggle to access essential medical appointments due to a lack of reliable transportation. The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Transportation Network steps in to bridge this gap, but they can't do it alone. They need you.
Are you looking for a way to give back, to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom? Consider becoming a volunteer van driver with the DAV. This isn't just about driving; it's about providing a lifeline to veterans needing to get to VA medical centers for crucial medical appointments.
1. Looking for Qualified Volunteers: Are You the Right Fit?
The DAV Transportation Network is actively seeking dedicated individuals to join their ranks of volunteer drivers. These unsung heroes provide free transportation to veterans, ensuring they can attend vital medical appointments. But what does it take to become one of these vital volunteers?
The qualifications are straightforward and designed to ensure the safety and well-being of both the driver and the veteran passengers. You must:
Possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
Be at least 21 years of age.
Be willing to undergo a physical examination by a VA Occupational Health provider.
Have personal auto liability insurance meeting specified coverage requirements and be deemed insurable by the VA system.
While the process includes health screenings, including blood tests, vision checks, and EKGs, these are in place to ensure your safety and the safety of the veterans you'll be assisting. Certain conditions, such as uncontrolled epilepsy or recent syncope, may disqualify you, but many other conditions, like diabetes or hypertension, can be managed with proper documentation and control.
2. Physical Requirements: Ensuring Safety and Well-being
The physical requirements for becoming a DAV volunteer driver are designed with safety as the top priority. The VA requires a thorough medical evaluation to ensure drivers can handle the demands of the role. This includes:
Comprehensive blood testing: Complete blood count, metabolic panel, and diabetes screening.
Urinalysis: Including drug testing.
Electrocardiogram (EKG): To assess cardiac function.
Vision testing: Assessing distance, near vision, color, and depth perception.
Physical examination: A hands-on assessment by a qualified provider.
The frequency of these examinations varies with age. Drivers under 55 need repeat exams every four years, those 55-65 every two years, and those over 65 annually. All drivers require annual tuberculosis testing. These measures ensure the continued safety and well-being of both the van drivers and the veterans they serve.
3. Local Veteran Assistance Program Hours: Making a Commitment
One of the beautiful aspects of volunteering with the DAV is the flexibility it offers. You can contribute your time based on your availability and the needs of your local VA medical centers. To find out the specific hours and opportunities available in your area, contact your local VA health care system's Voluntary Service Department or visit volunteer.va.gov.
By dedicating even a few hours a week, you can significantly impact a veteran's life. Whether it's driving them to a routine check-up or a critical treatment session, your contribution matters. The DAV operates a nationwide network, with 149 Hospital Service Coordinators overseeing transportation programs at over 248 VA medical facilities [22][42]. This means there's likely a need for your help right in your own community.
4. The Feel-Good Factor: The Rewards of Giving Back
While the practical benefits of the DAV Transportation Network are undeniable, the emotional rewards for volunteer drivers are just as significant. Research consistently shows that volunteering has a positive impact on mental and physical well-being [13]. It can reduce stress, combat depression, and provide a sense of purpose and connection.
As Jim Martin, a DAV volunteer from Spokane, Washington, puts it, "It's my way of saying thank you, and the veterans really appreciate the service we provide." [1] Patty Davis, a transportation coordinator, adds, "I feel like I get more from my interactions with them than they benefit from my time." [1]
Tom Bierbach, a Navy veteran and DAV volunteer, highlights the camaraderie: "I really enjoy the one-on-one conversations I get to have with fellow veterans because they feel comfortable talking with a fellow veteran... I do a lot of volunteer work, and this is, by far, the most fun I've had volunteering." [1]
These testimonials underscore the profound personal satisfaction that comes from serving those who have served us. It's an opportunity to build relationships, share experiences, and make a tangible difference in the lives of heroes.
The Urgency of the Need
The need for DAV van drivers is critical. A 2017 study revealed that approximately 1.8 million appointments at Veterans Health Administration facilities are cancelled annually due to transportation issues, costing the system nearly $4.4 billion [3][9]. While the DAV Transportation Network has provided nearly 19 million no-cost rides to veterans [7][17], the number of rides provided has decreased by 50% since 2018, largely due to a drop in volunteers [14][25]. This decline underscores the urgent need for more individuals to step up and fill this vital role.
Taking Action: How to Become a DAV Volunteer Driver
Ready to make a difference? Here's how to get started:
1. Contact your local VA health care system's Voluntary Service Department or visit volunteer.va.gov [7]. Express your interest in becoming a DAV Transportation Network volunteer driver.
2. Attend a fingerprint appointment at the VA facility.
3. Schedule an appointment with the Employee Health or Occupational Health department for your physical examination and required medical testing [11].
While the onboarding process can seem complex, some VA facilities are streamlining the process to make it easier for volunteers to get involved [14][25][44]. Remember, the impact you can have on a veteran's life is well worth the effort.
Conclusion: Answer the Call to Serve
In 2026, the need for DAV van drivers is more pressing than ever. By volunteering your time and skills, you can provide a lifeline to veterans, ensuring they receive the medical care they deserve. The rewards are immeasurable, both for the veterans you serve and for your own sense of purpose and well-being.
Don't wait. Contact your local VA health care system today and discover how you can become a DAV volunteer driver. Your service can make all the difference. Visit volunteer.va.gov to get started.
Sources and References
30. http://www.charityfirst.com/blog/volunteer-drivers-and-auto-insurance-for-nonprofit-organizations/
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