Trucker Exemption: No Front-Seat Trainer Needed After Skills Test?!
Published Date: 9/1/2026
Notice
Summary
FMCSA announces its final decision to renew the exemption granted to Landair Transport LLC d/b/a Covenant Logistics (Covenant Logistics) from the requirement that a commercial driver's license (CDL) holder with the proper class and endorsements be seated in the front seat of the commercial motor vehicle (CMV) at all times while the commercial learner's permit (CLP) holder is engaged in behind-the-wheel training on public roads or highways, but only after the CLP holder has passed the CDL skills test. FMCSA has analyzed the exemption application and public comments and determined that the exemption, subject to the terms and conditions set forth below, is likely to achieve a level of safety that is equivalent to, or greater than, the level that would be achieved absent such exemption.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
CLP Holders Can Drive Without Front-Seat CDL
Covenant Logistics drivers who hold a commercial learner's permit (CLP) and have passed the CDL skills test may operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) without a commercial driver's license (CDL) holder seated in the front passenger seat for up to 30 days after passing the skills test. This renewed exemption is effective July 30, 2026, through July 30, 2031, and requires drivers to carry a valid State driver's license, the CLP with required endorsements, and documentation that they passed the CDL skills test.
Federal Preemption for Interstate Operations
While this exemption is in effect (July 30, 2026 through July 30, 2031), no State may enforce laws or regulations applicable to interstate commerce that conflict with the exemption for a firm or person operating under it. States may choose, but are not required, to adopt the same exemption for intrastate operations.
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