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Entry-Level Driver Training

Entry-level driver training should be focused on minimum, competency-based requirements.  These requirements should apply to all prospective drivers who have not yet obtained and are required to possess a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate in interstate commerce.

The training curriculum should focus on the core elements of classroom and behind-the-wheel training.

Under any federal regulation, all training programs (motor carrier-based and non-carrier-based training institutions) should be provided with the ability to self-certify that their training meets the minimum federal requirements.  All training programs should also be able to certify that a driver has completed the required training.  All training programs should be subject to a random selection federal audit program to assure curriculum requirements are met.

Qualification requirements of driver-instructors should be similar in design and intent to existing federal training regulations (e.g., current CDL holder, no serious traffic violations on driving record, etc.) with the exception of skill instructors having a minimum of one year of driving experience.

Commercial learner’s permits should continue to be issued by states as currently practiced, and no provisional CDL requirements should be imposed upon entry-level drivers.

To further ensure that entry-level drivers meet the competency-based standards, the federal government should require state adoption of stronger CDL skills testing standards that reflect actual on-road driving requirements of the motor carrier industry.