Amazon has expanded its Integrated Last Mile Driver Academy (iLMDA) to train delivery drivers in safety and operational protocols before they begin their routes. The program, first launched in Colorado in 2022, uses interactive methods such as virtual reality headsets, driving simulators, and classroom instruction to prepare drivers for a range of real-world scenarios.
“We initially launched the Driver Academy in Colorado in 2022 and discovered that more interactive and engaging training significantly improved safety, not only for drivers, but also for the community,” said Dave Alperson, vice president of Amazon Logistics in North America. “Building off that success, we started expanding the model throughout the country, with the goal to support even more drivers.”
The academy covers delivery fundamentals such as safe package handling, managing pet encounters, proper vehicle exit techniques, loading and unloading vans, vehicle inspections, and preventing common injuries like slips or falls. One training module uses a slip-trip-fall simulator where participants wear safety harnesses while walking on slippery surfaces to learn safe movement techniques.
As of October 2025, over 140,000 drivers have completed training at 65 iLMDA sites across North America. The company projects that by December 2026 this number will grow to more than 95 delivery stations offering enhanced safety instruction.
Drivers experience hands-on learning through both traditional classrooms and immersive technologies. Future expansions include mock towns where trainees can practice deliveries at different types of residences and mailrooms. Training emphasizes hazard detection on the road and defensive driving skills. The newest addition is the Enhanced Vehicle Operation Learning Virtual Experience (EVOLVE) driving simulator—recently introduced at facilities in Denver (Colorado), Glen Burnie (Maryland), and Seffner (Florida). Over 6,000 new drivers have participated in EVOLVE so far; Amazon expects up to 40 sites will offer it by late 2026.
Tyguan Tyler is among more than 300,000 drivers who have used VR-based training since its introduction. After completing his course in Tampa while working for REB Solutions—a Delivery Service Partner—Tyler noted: “I’m more of a physical learner, which helped when I did the VR training. I was in a simulation where you’re standing in somebody’s yard and working through all the steps as if you are there—figuring out if there’s a dog on the premises, finding any trip hazards, checking how to hold your package when leaving the vehicle.”
Training also introduces drivers to Amazon’s electric delivery vehicles—including instruction on regenerative braking systems and specific handling features.
Amazon reports an investment of $16.7 billion over seven years into supporting Delivery Service Partners (DSPs) and their teams. This includes $1.9 billion dedicated specifically to safety initiatives and AI-powered tools within its DSP program.
The company states that these efforts aim to fully immerse new drivers in realistic situations before they begin delivering orders within communities.
