The safe driver apprenticeship pilot program is a game changer. The pilot program will open many doors in the trucking industry. For example, the age limit for interstate drivers has been 21 years. This pilot program aims to bring this limit to 18 years. In doing so, it will help solve the driver shortage. The driver shortage has been a problem for many years.

Overview of the Pilot Program

FMCSA is accepting applications to participate in the Safe driver apprenticeship pilot program. And the program will mainly focus on interstate operations. It will take up to 1000 carriers and 3000 drivers. In addition, the program will be of vast support across the trucking industry. People have raised some concerns that would need to be addressed. Some claim that there would be too much reporting involved. FMCSA brought the pilot program into light back in January. In July there was training about the same.

Requirements of the Pilot Program

Like any other program, the apprentice pilot program has several requirements. The age limit for those allowed to participate in the program is 18-20. Land Line noted that they must also have a valid commercial driver's license. The apprentice must complete two test periods with an experienced driver. The supervisor must be at least 26 years old; must also have five years of experience on the interstate with a good track record. They will not drive passengers or dangerous materials. They will also have a weight limit of 80,000 pounds.

Motor carriers will also have to sign up for the program. The vehicles used in the program will have a monitoring system. The application process is currently open for the next three years. Carries will enroll both a learner and an experienced driver. There will be training for the enrolled carriers. All of them will be trained on the specific requirements of the pilot program. In addition, they will learn about both reporting and compliance with the pilot program.

Concerns about the Pilot Program

Most people raised concerns about the safety of the pilot program. Nicole Michel insisted that they intend to make the program very safe. He also added that the technologies involved would come in handy. FMCSA also has the power to stop the program if safety is ever in doubt. The experienced drivers will be thoroughly checked to verify if they can meet their needs. In the long run, this pilot program will be very beneficial. The concerns are important, but the long-term benefits are more significant.