In recent years, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has implemented new truck entry-level driver training regulations. These changes were made to improve the safety of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and reduce the number of crashes involving CMVs.
So, what do these new laws entail? One of the main changes is requiring all new truck drivers to complete a minimum of 30 hours of behind-the-wheel training before obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL). This training must be completed under the supervision of a certified instructor. It must cover various topics, including vehicle inspection, backing, maneuvering, and driving in different road and weather conditions.
In addition to the behind-the-wheel training requirement, the FMCSA has also implemented new rules for CDL training programs. These programs must now be registered with the FMCSA and meet specific requirements, including a minimum number of hours of classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction and standardized curricula.
The FMCSA has also established a new entry-level driver training (ELDT) registry, which lists all CDL training programs that the FMCSA has approved. This registry is intended to help potential students find reputable and high-quality CDL training programs.
Overall, the new FMCSA truck entry-level driver training laws are designed to improve the safety of commercial motor vehicles and reduce the number of crashes involving these vehicles. By requiring a minimum amount of behind-the-wheel training and establishing stricter requirements for CDL training programs, the FMCSA aims to ensure that new truck drivers have the knowledge and skills they need to operate a CMV safely.