TRUCKLOAD CARRIERS ASSOCIATION

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Entry-Level Driver Training

Background

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) released a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) in December 2007 proposing a rigorous entry-level driver training (ELDT) scheme. Under the proposal, driver training schools and programs would be required to obtain accreditation through select accrediting bodies. Further, the NPRM proposed that commercial driver's license applicants would be required to successfully complete specified minimum hours of classroom and behind-the-wheel training.

FMCSA began this rulemaking process in response to a 2005 court decision. In that decision, the D.C. Circuit Court held that FMCSA was arbitrary and capricious in promulgating its previous training rule, issued in 2004, because that rule lacked a requirement for behind-the-wheel training. The 2004 rule currently governs ELDT and requires knowledge of driver qualifications, hours of service limitations, wellness, and whistleblower protection.

FMCSA anticipated publication of a final rule on ELDT by the end of 2011. However, the agency has yet to release a new final rule.

Additional Information

2007 NPRM

TCA Policy: Entry-Level Driver Training

This page was last reviewed Friday, April 27, 2012

 
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