Truck drivers must be highly trained to operate big rigs and transport heavy loads. New commercial drivers take classes to master the skills and ensure compliance with Federal, State, and local Commercial Driver’s License Guidelines. Depending on a trucker’s driving specialty, they must successfully meet technical qualifications to earn a Class A, B, or C Commercial Driver’s License designation. By nature, safe driving and maneuvering skills, oftentimes, can only be mastered through experience on the roadways.
Unfortunately, education alone cannot prevent common truck accidents. Regardless of training and experience, some truckers still engage in the types of behaviors that lead to serious crashes. To minimize the potential risks, federal codes have always maintained that individuals must be at least 21 years old to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License. However, due to recent trucker shortages, the age requirements are changing.
The FMCSA recently implemented an Under 21 Pilot Program for young adults interested in obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and have military training and experience. The requirements of the program aim to minimize safety issues as more young drivers may be permitted to operate large trucks.