My question is probably unusual.
I am a professional driver, and I and my wife decided to file seperately this year. I want to know if anyone can tell me what my options are, relating to the per diem deduction that the IRS allows. I know there's a certain amount per day that is allowed when away from home, but I don't know if I can claim it if my company doesn't deduct it from my check (they don't).
I need to know if I can still use it, and if so, do I have to itemize completely?
If anyone has any good information on this topic, please let me know.

Check out GSA - Home (Entry Point) & click on the Per diem rates link. BTW, pertains to self-employed folks who travel out-of-town on business.
Here are the SMRs for 2009:
The IRS announced the Standard Mileage Rates for vehicle deductions for 2009. As you know,the SMR was increased this summer, effective July 1,due to rapidly rising gas prices.
So, in most cases there was one set of rates in effect for the first half of this year, and a different set of ratesfor the second half.
Here is a listing of rates in effect for Jan-June 2008,July-Dec 2008, and new rates for 2009.
Business: 2008 -- Jan-Jun: 50.5¢/mile 2008 -- Jul-Dec: 58.5¢/mile 2009 -- 55¢/mile
Charity: 2008 -- 14¢/mile 2009 -- 14¢/mile
Medical: 2008 -- Jan-Jun: 19¢/mile 2008 -- Jul-Dec: 22¢/mile 2009 -- 24¢/mile
Moving: 2008 -- Jan-Jun: 22¢/mile 2008 -- Jul-Dec: 27¢/mile 2009 -- 24¢/mile