Truck Trainees May Drive Without Their Supervisor Beside Them
Published Date: 10/27/2026
Notice
Summary
PAM Transport, Inc. wants a special pass that lets learner drivers operate big trucks without a licensed driver sitting right next to them, as long as the licensed driver stays somewhere in the vehicle. The government is asking the public to share their thoughts by November 27, 2026, before deciding. This could change how new truck drivers get their licenses and might speed up training without extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
CLP holders may drive before CDL issued
PAM Transport asks for a 5-year exemption that would let learners who have passed the CDL skills test drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) even if a licensed CDL holder is not sitting in the front passenger seat, as long as a CDL holder remains somewhere in the vehicle. PAM estimates about 500–700 CLP holders could operate each year under this exemption, and it would let drivers begin paid work sooner and take a revenue-generating trip back to their State of domicile to obtain their CDL documents.
Eligibility and documentation requirements
Under PAM's proposal, any CLP holder operating under the exemption must hold a valid CLP and State driver's license, possess evidence of successful completion of the CDL skills test, have required endorsements, be medically qualified, not be under an out-of-service order, meet PAM's driver qualifications, and have a qualified CDL holder physically present in the CMV while the CLP operates. PAM would require those documents to be carried and accessible for inspection, would document operations, continuously monitor safety performance, and immediately remove any driver who becomes ineligible.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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