FMCSA Proposes CDL Requirement Changes to Increase Flexibility

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The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is gearing up to make some changes to Commercial Driver's License (CDL) requirements, aiming to add more flexibility to the process. They're planning to publish these proposed changes soon, and once they do, the public will have 60 days to share their thoughts on them.

So, what's on the table? First, they're considering letting CDL applicants take their skills test in a state that isn't their home state. This could speed things up, especially if another state has shorter waiting times for the test.

They're also thinking about allowing those with a commercial learner's permit who have passed the skills test to drive commercial vehicles on public roads without needing a qualified CDL holder in the passenger seat.

Additionally, they might get rid of the rule that forces applicants to wait at least 14 days after getting their commercial learner's permit to take the skills test.

Lastly, they want third-party knowledge examiners to meet the same training, certification, and record-check standards as state knowledge examiners.

Read more about this at Landline >

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT FOR MY INDUSTRY?

What's cool is that it could make life easier for people trying to get their CDLs and for the state agencies handing them out. It might become less of a hassle to become a trucker - if they let you take your CDL skills test in a state where it's quicker to get it done, that's like hitting the fast-forward button on hiring. And with the trucking industry often referencing being short on drivers… that's a big deal. It could help companies fill those empty seats in the cabs.

🔥 OUR HOT TAKE?

This may sound good on paper, but what happens to consistency? Each state might have its own take on the skills test, leading to a bit of a “Wild West” situation. Then there's the removal of the 14-day waiting period after getting a learner's permit. Speeding things up might seem like a great idea, but what about learning and practicing? Some things just can't be rushed.

Now, we get it, change can be a good thing, but these changes might be like trying to fix a leaky faucet. Sure, it might work… but you could also end up with a flooded kitchen. Let's hope these proposals don't create more problems than they solve.