The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) wants public comment on a pilot program allowing drivers ages 18-20 to haul interstate commercial freight.
Most states and the District of Columbia already allow 18- to 20-year-old commercial driver’s license holders to operate trucks within the state.
“This action will allow the Agency to carefully examine the safety, feasibility and possible economic benefits of allowing 18- to 20-year-old drivers to operate in interstate commerce,” said FMCSA Deputy Administrator Wiley Deck in announcing the proposed pilot project Friday. “Safety is always FMCSA’s top priority, so we encourage drivers, motor carriers and interested citizens to review this proposed new pilot program and share their thoughts and opinions.”
The proposed program allows drivers falling within one of two categories to participate:
- Eighteen- to 20-year-old CDL holders who operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in interstate commerce while taking part in a 120-hour probationary period and a subsequent 280-hour probationary period under an apprenticeship program established by an employer, or
- Nineteen- and 20-year-old commercial drivers who have operated CMVs in intrastate commerce for a minimum of one year and 25,000 miles.
Participating drivers would not be allowed to operate vehicles hauling passengers or hazardous materials or special configuration vehicles, according to the proposal. The test program would last up to three years.
Details of the proposed program can be found here.
Larry Glen Lybarger
Im all for it.
As long as these younger newer drivers are with a reliable trainer for 6 to 12 months before theyre released on their own. Minimum of atleast one full winter behind the wheel.
Bruce Reinhart
I believe it’s a bad idea this is not a job its also a lifestyle change most people that age have not even been driving a car for a long period of time let alone a fully loaded rig.
William Doty
I think it really bad idea, most all of can’t drive an auto or pick up with good judgment or responsibility. We have already to many drivers in there 20s -30s not responsible now.. plus foreigners with terrible attitude.
Dennis Johnson
I think it’s a good idea.
Mark Yancey
My honest opinion is I believe that drivers under the age of 23 is not mature enough to handle a commercial vehicle. They are coming out of their childlike behavior and would endanger the lives of millions of drivers across the United States. It would be better in my opinion if they could do a ride along and have so many of hours inside the simulator and ride along program to better understand the harsh world of the road.
lois lentini
I think as long as it is monitored closely it would be a good idea.
Not all 18-20 year olds are irresponsible or reckless. With a goid driving record and proper supervision i think they would be assests to the industry.
Russell
I believe it is a big mistake!!!
Rebecca Vaughn
Ditto
Robert Hensley
I think it’s great that the FMCSA is considering dropping the age to 18 for intrastate travel. I have always thought it was silly that an imaginary line made an 18-20 year old less of a safe driver!
Lance Marvich
Most 18-20yr olds these days are selfish entitled millennials with attitudes. They’re terrible drivers too.