Groups Want Behind-the-Wheel Time Restored to Entry-Level Driver Rule

A petition has been submitted to reinstate a requirement for behind-the-wheel training for entry-level truck drivers. Right now, it is up to the instructor to determine if a driver is fit to operate freely on public roads. However, the petition calls for a minimum of 10 hours of training plus driving with an instructor on the road for an unlimited amount of time before a driver is determined to be safe.

Key Takeaways:

• The final rule does not include a requirement for 30 hours of behind-the-wheel training for new drivers.
• The final rule requires no behind-the-wheel standard for student drivers, instead deferring to skills tests administered by state licensing agencies.
• The petition notes that under the new rule, the determination of whether a student driver has the skill set required to operate safely on public roadways is “entirely in the hands of the instructor.

“The final rule does not include a requirement for 30 hours of behind-the-wheel training for new drivers.”

http://www.truckinginfo.com/channel/drivers/news/story/2016/12/industry-associations-balk-at-entry-level-driver-final-rule.aspx