2. What will the training entail?

The new entry-level training will be broken into two subdivisions: a theory and a behind-the-wheel (BTW) component. Drivers will have to successfully complete both sections to be eligible to complete their CDL transactions.

There’s one exception: Those seeking only to add a hazmat endorsement need only pass the theory-based component of the training, because that endorsement only requires a knowledge test.

The training itself will be developed by certified training providers but must meet certain standards and cover certain topics that are detailed in the FMCSA’s rule. Although the rule doesn’t set any minimum hours requirement for either the theory or the BTW components, drivers will have to pass the theory component with a score of at least 80% and will have to pass the BTW component — which will include both range and public roadway driving — to the satisfaction of the training provider.

3. Who can provide the training?

Entities that wish to provide the required entry-level driver training must be listed on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry. These could be dedicated driving schools, motor carriers, or state agencies. To be listed, the providers will have to self-certify they meet certain conditions, including having curriculum that tracks the FMCSA’s minimum standards for entry-level training and meeting any applicable state-specific requirements.

Drivers must make sure their training provider is listed on the Training Provider Registry. Once a driver successfully passes the required training, the certified training provider must issue a certificate and upload an electronic copy to the registry so state drivers’ licensing agencies can verify the driver has completed the required training.

4. What are the minimum qualifications for entry-level instructors?

Training providers must certify their training is either developed or delivered by a qualified instructor. The rule sets minimum standards for instructors.

Theory instructors must hold a CDL of the same (or higher) class, and with all necessary endorsements, to operate the types of vehicles for which they are

offering training. They must also have a minimum of two years’ experience either operating a commercial vehicle requiring a CDL of the same (or higher) class for which training is provided or as a BTW instructor. Theory instructors who previously held a CDL of the same or higher class for which they are offering training can still be eligible to provide instruction without a currently valid CDL, so long as their CDL wasn’t revoked, suspended, or cancelled for a disqualifying reason.

5. Can entry-level training be online?

The theory component can be provided exclusively online, but the training must still be developed or delivered by a registered training provider and a qualified instructor, and it must track the FMCSA’s required curriculum.

Like live training, online training must also include an exam, which students must pass with a score of at least 80%.

6. What role will motor carriers play in this process?

Motor carriers have no specific obligations under the rule unless they intend to offer entry-level training to their own drivers. In that case, they would either need to source the training from a registered provider and/or register themselves as a provider. Carriers who, as a matter of policy, only hire drivers who already hold CDLs will have no role to play, since their driver candidates will already have taken the required training to obtain their CDLs in the first place.

7. If we purchase pre-packaged theory training to deliver to our drivers, must we register as a training provider?

So long as the training itself was developed by a registered training provider who will certify student completion, those who are simply delivering that training to their own drivers do not have to separately register as training providers. However, if the provider of those materials is not listed on the registry or is not certifying completion, then those delivering the content would have to register.

No. So long as a driver obtained a CLP prior to Feb. 7 and does not need to renew it after that date, he/she will not have to take the new entry-level driver training to complete his/her CDL transaction.

9. If we purchase pre-packaged theory training to deliver to our drivers, must we register as a training provider?

So long as the training itself was developed by a registered training provider who will certify student completion, those who are simply delivering that training to their own drivers do not have to separately register as training providers. However, if the provider of those materials is not listed on the registry or is not certifying completion, then those delivering the content would have to register.

10. Must a driver whose CDL expired prior to Feb. 7 obtain entry-level training to renew his/her CDL after that date?

No. So long as the driver’s CDL simply expired (i.e., not downgraded, suspended, or revoked) before Feb. 7, he/she can renew the license after that date without obtaining entry-level driver training.