New Federal Driver Training Requirements Raising Concerns
New federal mandates for driver training are set to take effect in early 2022, prompting worries about their potential impact on individuals seeking to join the trucking industry.
Details of the Upcoming Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations for Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT), established under the 2016 Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act, will become effective on February 7, 2022, according to the American Traffic Safety Services Association.
Training Provider Requirements
With the new rules, aspiring truck drivers must undergo training at accredited institutions listed on the Training Provider Registry. This requirement may exclude some smaller, budget-friendly trucking schools and companies from being viable options.
Objective of the New Regulations
These regulations aim to fulfill the FMCSA’s objective of ensuring that only qualified individuals operate commercial motor vehicles. Notably, the new rules will not affect those who have already secured their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Registry Launch and Functions
The FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry website is expected to launch in February 2022 and will allow training providers to register. It will also maintain records of CDL applicants who have complied with ELDT training and certification requirements, making this information available to state authorities.
Concerns from Smaller Trucking Firms
Many smaller trucking companies worry that these regulatory changes will obstruct their ability to offer training, further complicating entry into the trucking industry for potential drivers. Shelley Koch, President of K & J Trucking Inc. in South Dakota, expressed that the new requirements could limit opportunities for those from rural areas with prior driving experience.
Impact on the Industry
Christine Erickson, Executive Director of the South Dakota Trucking Association, described the new rules as yet another obstacle for those aiming to obtain a CDL. She noted that the additional costs might discourage businesses from providing training incentives, complicating efforts to address the current supply chain bottlenecks in the shipping sector.
