Trucking Stakeholders Feud Over CDL Test Flexibility

Trucking Stakeholders Feud Over CDL Test Flexibility

A plan by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to ease CDL testing rules faces resistance from truck owner-operators and safety groups.

The proposal, titled "Increased Flexibility for Testing and for Drivers after Passing the Skills Test," aims to speed up the process of getting new drivers on the road by:

  • Allowing learners with a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) who pass the skills test to drive solo (without a licensed driver present).
  • Letting applicants take their skills test in any state, not just their home state.
  • Removing the 14-day waiting period between getting a CLP and taking the skills test.

These changes, originally temporary measures during the pandemic, are now being considered for permanent adoption.

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) supports the proposal, believing it will ease their non-existent driver shortage, while other groups believe this will continue to water down the driver selection pool and leave the roads less safe.