FMCSA Proposal on CDL Testing:
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) introduced a proposal titled “Increased Flexibility for Testing and for Drivers after Passing the Skills Test,” aiming to ease regulations around testing and employing new commercial drivers. Key provisions include allowing commercial learner’s permit (CLP) holders who have passed the CDL skills test to operate trucks without a CDL holder in the passenger seat, expanding the ability for CDL applicants to take a skills test in a different state, and eliminating the 14-day waiting period for CLP holders to take the CDL skills test. These changes were prompted by waivers during the pandemic and a petition from the American Trucking Associations (ATA), with the goal of addressing a potential driver shortage.

Industry Perspectives on FMCSA Proposal:
The American Trucking Associations (ATA) advocates for streamlined CDL testing as a solution to the looming driver shortage, emphasizing the need to attract new drivers quickly to meet industry demands. Werner Enterprises supports the proposal, suggesting that it will enhance team-driving opportunities and boost productivity. The Commercial Vehicle Training Association (CVTA) believes that reducing wait times and expanding test locations would cut costs and increase tax revenue, citing significant financial losses due to testing delays.

Inspired by: https://www.freightwaves.com/news/trucking-industry-stakeholders-square-off-over-cdl-test-flexibility