[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 246 (Wednesday, December 26, 2007)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 73226-73249]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E7-24769]



[[Page 73225]]

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Part VI





Department of Transportation





-----------------------------------------------------------------------



Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration



-----------------------------------------------------------------------



49 CFR Parts 380, 383 and 384



Minimum Training Requirements for Entry-Level Commercial Motor Vehicle 
Operators; Proposed Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 246 / Wednesday, December 26, 2007 / 
Proposed Rules  

[[Page 73226]]


-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

49 CFR Parts 380, 383, and 384

[Docket No. FMCSA-2007-27748]
RIN 2126-AB06


Minimum Training Requirements for Entry-Level Commercial Motor 
Vehicle Operators

AGENCY: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); request for comments.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: FMCSA proposes to revise the standards for mandatory training 
requirements for entry-level operators of commercial motor vehicles 
(CMVs) in interstate operations who are required to possess a 
commercial driver's license (CDL). The proposed rule would not apply to 
drivers who currently possess a CDL or obtain a CDL before a date 3 
years after a final rule goes into effect. Following that date, persons 
applying for new or upgraded CDLs would be required to successfully 
complete specified minimum classroom and behind-the-wheel training from 
an accredited institution or program. The State driver-licensing agency 
would only issue a CDL if the applicant presented a valid Driver 
Training Certificate obtained from an accredited institution or 
program. This NPRM would strengthen the Agency's entry-level driver 
training requirements as a means to enhance the safety of CMV 
operations on our Nation's highways.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before March 25, 2008.

ADDRESSES: You must include Docket ID Number FMCSA-2007-27748 for this 
rulemaking, your name, mailing address, or an email address to ensure 
that we can identify you so that your comments may be considered. You 
may submit your comments through the Federal Docket Management System 
(FDMS), under Docket ID Number FMCSA-2007-27748, by any one of the 
following methods:
     Electronic: You may submit documents electronically 
through the online FDMS docket Web site at http://www.regulations.gov. 
This site is the preferred method for receiving comments/submission. 
Follow the instructions for submissions.
     Mail/Hand Delivery: You may submit documents by mail or 
hand delivery to the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of 
Transportation, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Ave, SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., e.t., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. DOT will scan the 
submission and post it to FDMS.
     Fax: You may fax your submissions to 202-493-2251. DOT 
will scan the submission and post it to FDMS.
     Confidential and Proprietary Information, and Sensitive 
Security Information: Comments/submissions containing this type of 
information should be appropriately marked as containing such 
information and submitted by mail or hand delivery to the DOT's Docket 
Management Facility. This type of information will not go in the public 
docket, but will be placed in a separate file to which the public does 
not have access.
     Accessing and Searching FDMS: All comments will be posted 
without change to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal 
information provided. Anyone may access FDMS to submit comments, or 
review and copy all comments and background material received on a 
particular rulemaking. Please see Privacy Act issues below.
    Privacy Act: Anyone is able to search the electronic form of all 
comments/submissions entered into any of our dockets in FDMS by the 
name of the individual submitting the document (or signing the comment, 
if submitted on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). 
You may review DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement published in the 
Federal Register on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477) or you may visit 
http://DocketsInfo.dot.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Thomas Yager, Chief, Driver and 
Carrier Operations Division (MC-PSD), telephone (202) 366-4325 or e-
mail [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This section is organized as follows:

I. Legal Basis for the Rulemaking
II. Background
    A. Statement of the Problem
    B. History
     Curriculum Standards
     CMVSA: Minimum Uniform Standards for CDLs
     ISTEA: Entry-Level Driver Training
     The Adequacy Report
     Previous Rulemakings
     DC Circuit Decision
     Training Research and Studies
    C. Request for Comment on the Need for the Regulation
III. General Discussion of the Proposals
    A. Scope and Applicability
    B. Curriculum Content
    C. Training Providers
    D. Compliance and Enforcement
    E. Implementation Date
    F. Changes to Existing Rules
IV. Section-by-Section Explanation of Changes
    A. Subparts A-E of part 380 and Appendix to Part 380
    B. Subpart F of part 380 and Appendix B to Part 380
     Section 380.600, Compliance date for entry-level 
drivers
     Section 380.601, Purpose and scope
     Section 380.603, Applicability
     Section 380.605, Definitions
     Section 380.607, Requirement to complete entry-level 
driver training
     Section 380.609, Entry-level driver-instructor 
requirements
     Section 380.611, Driver testing
     Appendix B, Entry-Level Driver Training Curriculum
    C. Part 383, Commercial Driver's License Standards; Requirements 
and Penalties
    D. Part 384, State Compliance With Commercial Driver's License 
Program
V. Regulatory Analyses and Notices
    A. Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory Planning and Review) and 
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
    B. Regulatory Flexibility Act
    C. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
    D. Paperwork Reduction Act
    E. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
    F. Privacy Impact Assessment
    G. Federalism
    H. Civil Justice Reform
    I. Protection of Children
    J. Taking of Private Property
    K. Energy Effects

I. Legal Basis for the Rulemaking

    This notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) is based on the authority 
of the Motor Carrier Act of 1935 and the Motor Carrier Safety Act of 
1984, as well as the mandate of section 4007(a) of the Intermodal 
Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA). The rulemaking 
also responds to a 2005 decision of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 
District of Columbia Circuit (DC Circuit).
    The Motor Carrier Act of 1935 provides that ``The Secretary of 
Transportation may prescribe requirements for--(1) qualifications and 
maximum hours of service of employees of, and safety of operation and 
equipment of, a motor carrier; and (2) qualifications and maximum hours 
of service of employees of, and standards of equipment of, a motor 
private carrier, when needed to promote safety of operation'' [49 
U.S.C. 3502(b)].
    This NPRM is intended to improve the ``safety of operation'' of 
entry-level ``employees'' who operate large commercial motor vehicles 
(CMVs) by ensuring that they receive appropriate training before 
obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL).
    The Motor Carrier Safety Act of 1984 provides concurrent authority 
to regulate drivers, motor carriers, and

[[Page 73227]]

vehicle equipment. It requires the Secretary of Transportation to 
``prescribe regulations on commercial motor vehicle safety. The 
regulations shall prescribe minimum safety standards for commercial 
motor vehicles.'' Although this authority is very broad, the Act also 
includes specific requirements: ``At a minimum, the regulations shall 
ensure that--(1) commercial motor vehicles are maintained, equipped, 
loaded, and operated safely; (2) the responsibilities imposed on 
operators of commercial motor vehicles do not impair their ability to 
operate the vehicles safely; (3) the physical condition of operators of 
commercial motor vehicles is adequate to enable them to operate the 
vehicles safely; and (4) the operation of commercial motor vehicles 
does not have a deleterious effect on the physical condition of the 
operators'' [49 U.S.C. 31136(a)].
    This NPRM is based primarily on 49 U.S.C. 31136(a)(1), requiring 
regulations to ensure that CMVs are ``operated safely,'' and 
secondarily on section 31136(a)(2), to the extent that untrained entry-
level drivers might be given responsibilities that exceed their ability 
to operate CMVs safely. The NPRM would ensure training of entry-level 
drivers to operate CMVs safely and to meet the operational 
responsibilities imposed on them. This rulemaking does not address 
medical standards for drivers [section 31136(a)(3)] or possible 
physical effects caused by driving CMVs [section 31136(a)(4)].
    Section 4007(a) of ISTEA (Public Law 102-240, December 18, 1991, 
105 Stat. 1914, 2151) directed the Secretary of Transportation to 
undertake rulemaking on the need to require training of all entry-level 
drivers of ``commercial motor vehicles.'' The Agency published an 
advance notice of proposed rulemaking on this subject on June 21, 1993 
(58 FR 33874), an NPRM on August 15, 2003 (68 FR 48863), and a final 
rule on May 21, 2004 (69 FR 29384).
    The Motor Carrier Safety Act of 1984 defined a CMV, in part, as a 
vehicle operating in ``interstate commerce'' [49 U.S.C. 31132(1)]. The 
Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986, which created the CDL 
program, defined a CMV, in part, as a vehicle operating in 
``commerce,'' a term separately defined to cover both interstate 
commerce and operations that ``affect'' interstate commerce [49 U.S.C. 
31302(2), (4)]. Although both of these definitions were in effect when 
section 4007(a) was enacted (and still are), Congress did not specify 
whether an entry-level driver training rulemaking should be limited to 
``CMV'' drivers in interstate commerce, or whether it should also 
encompass ``CMV'' drivers in intrastate commerce.
    Article I, section 8, clause 3 of the Constitution gives Congress 
the authority to regulate interstate commerce. The Supreme Court has 
held that Congress may also legislate on matters ``affecting interstate 
commerce,'' a phrase generally treated as equivalent to intrastate 
commerce. Federal legislation is presumed, therefore, to apply only to 
interstate commerce unless it reveals some indication of a 
Congressional intent to reach intrastate commerce. Neither section 
4007(a) nor its legislative history includes evidence of any such 
intent. Under these circumstances, the Agency concluded that entry-
level driver training may be required only for CMV drivers who intend 
to operate in interstate commerce. In view of the greater risks 
associated with larger vehicles and those transporting hazardous 
materials and passengers, as well as the special requirements Congress 
has imposed on drivers of such vehicles (particularly the CDL and the 
subsequent drug and alcohol testing program), FMCSA concluded that 
training requirements should focus on entry-level drivers applying for 
a CDL who intend to operate in interstate commerce.
    Three parties petitioned the DC Circuit for review of the 2004 
rule. The court held that FMCSA had failed to consider important 
aspects of an adequate entry-level training program and remanded the 
rule to the Agency for further consideration (Advocates for Highway and 
Auto Safety v. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 429 F.3d 
1136 (DC Cir. 2005)). This NPRM addresses the issues raised by the 
court.
    Before prescribing any regulations, FMCSA must consider their 
``costs and benefits'' [49 U.S.C. 31136(c)(2)(A) and 31502(d)]. Those 
factors are discussed below in the section on ``Regulatory Analyses and 
Notices.''

II. Background

A. Statement of the Problem

    In the early 1980's, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) 
Office of Motor Carriers, predecessor to FMCSA, determined that there 
was a need for technical guidance in the area of truck driver training. 
Research showed that few driver training institutions offered a 
structured curriculum or a standardized training program for any type 
of commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver. A 1995 study entitled 
``Assessing the Adequacy of Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Training'' 
(the Adequacy Report) concluded, among other things, that effective 
entry-level driver training needs to include behind-the-wheel 
instruction on how to operate a heavy vehicle.
    In 2004, FMCSA implemented a training rule that focused on areas 
unrelated to the hands-on operation of a CMV, relying instead on the 
CDL knowledge and skills tests to encourage training in the operation 
of CMVs. These current training regulations cover four areas: (1) 
Driver qualifications; (2) hours of service limitations; (3) wellness; 
and (4) whistleblower protection. In 2005, the DC Circuit held that the 
Agency was arbitrary and capricious in promulgating the 2004 rule 
because it ignored an important conclusion of its own 1995 Adequacy 
Report, that behind-the-wheel training is essential. Therefore, in this 
rulemaking FMCSA is proposing new training standards for entry-level 
drivers that would include behind-the-wheel (BTW) as well as classroom 
training. [Note: In this notice ``behind-the-wheel'' training includes 
both training on public roads and training on private property, 
sometimes called ``driving range'' training.]

B. History

Curriculum Standards
    The FHWA published a ``Model Curriculum for Training Tractor-
Trailer Drivers'' in 1985. The Model Curriculum provides non-regulatory 
guidelines and training materials pertaining to vehicles, facilities, 
instructor hiring practices, graduation requirements, and student 
placement. Curriculum content addresses basic operation, safe operating 
practices, vehicle maintenance, and non-vehicle activities. The Model 
Curriculum reflects a consensus among experts at the time of its 
publication. Its training standards are not based on any specific 
research showing that drivers who received training of a particular 
type or duration are less likely to be involved in crashes than drivers 
receiving other kinds of training, or no systematic training at all.
    The 1985 Model Curriculum recommended the equivalent of a total of 
148 \1\ hours of training, including on-

[[Page 73228]]

street training and additional hours of driving-range \2\ time. At the 
time the Model Curriculum was published, the CDL program (49 CFR part 
383) did not yet exist. The first CDLs were not issued until 1992.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ The original Model Curriculum referred to a total of 320 
hours. However, these hours of training include periods when the 
student is not receiving individual instruction, such as while 
waiting his/her turn to use an available truck to practice driving 
skills. Therefore, the Adequacy Report, identified later under this 
heading, states in relation to the training curriculum established 
by the Professional Truck Driver Institute (PTDI), which was based 
on the Model Curriculum, that ``The PTDI[A] standard includes* * * 
147.5 per-student hours. This is equivalent to the 320 class hours 
required by the FHWA Model Curriculum'' (Adequacy Report, Executive 
Summary, p. 26). There are several reasons for this variance in the 
total hours of the respective training programs. First, FHWA's 
curriculum includes topics, such as first-aid training, that are not 
included in the PTDI curriculum. In addition, instructional time may 
be calculated as either 60- or 50-minute hours. FHWA's curriculum 
was based on a 50-minute clock, and PTDI's on a 60-minute clock. (In 
this NPRM, 60-minute instructional hours are used unless otherwise 
stated.) FHWA used a 3:1 ratio (student to instructor) for in-truck 
training, and PTDI uses a 1:1 ratio. If a 3:1 ratio is used, it is 
assumed that it will take 3 clock hours to achieve 1 hour of BTW 
instruction for a student, since only one of the three students can 
use the truck at a time. The others would have unproductive 
``waiting time.''
    \2\ ``Driving range time'' refers to time operating a CMV on 
private property, usually a large paved lot specially designed to 
allow practice of basic driving operations and maneuvers. Some 
schools' curricula include both observation and behind-the-wheel 
time under range hours. This NPRM does not use ``range time'' in the 
regulatory text and therefore the term is not defined.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In 1986, the motor carrier, truck driver training school, and 
insurance industries created the Professional Truck Driver Institute 
(PTDI) to certify high-quality training programs offered by training 
institutions. The PTDI used the truck driver Model Curriculum as the 
basis for its certification criteria. On January 24, 1999, the PTDI 
approved revisions to the curriculum and published three separate 
standards:
     ``Skill Standards for Entry-Level Tractor-Trailer 
Drivers;''
     ``Curriculum Standard Guidelines for Entry-Level Tractor-
Trailer Driver Courses;'' and
     ``Certification Standards and Requirements for Entry-Level 
Tractor-Trailer Driver Courses.''
    As of December 2006, PTDI-certified courses are offered at 61 
schools in 28 States and Canada, according to PTDI's Web site (http://www.ptdi.org). PTDI estimates that approximately 10,000 students 
graduate from its certified courses annually.
CMVSA: Minimum Uniform Standards for CDLs
    The Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 (CMVSA) (49 U.S.C. 
31301 et seq.) established a CDL program that includes national minimum 
testing and licensing standards for operators of CMVs. The CMVSA 
directed the Agency to establish minimum Federal standards that States 
must meet when testing and licensing CMV drivers. The CMVSA applies to 
anyone who operates a CMV in interstate or intrastate commerce, 
including employees of Federal, State, and local governments. The goal 
was to ensure that drivers of large trucks and buses possess the 
knowledge and skills necessary to operate safely on public highways.
    In accordance with the CMVSA, all drivers of CMVs (as defined in 
Sec.  383.5) must possess a valid CDL. In addition to passing the CDL 
knowledge and skill tests required for the basic vehicle group, all 
persons who operate or anticipate operating the following vehicles, 
which have special handling or operational characteristics, must obtain 
endorsements under Sec.  383.93 for:
     Double or triple trailers;
     Passenger vehicles;
     Tank vehicles;
     Vehicles required to be placarded for hazardous materials; 
or
     School buses.
    The driver is required to pass a knowledge test for each 
endorsement, plus a skills test to obtain a passenger vehicle 
endorsement or school bus endorsement.
ISTEA: Entry-Level Driver Training
    The CDL standards require tests for knowledge and skills, but 
neither the CMVSA nor the FMCSRs requires driver training. The private 
sector, with guidance from FMCSA, has attempted to promote effective 
training. Formal, supervised training is available from private truck 
driver training schools, public institutions, and in-house motor 
carrier programs. Many drivers take some sort of private-sector 
training at their own expense. These courses vary in quality. Some 
provide only enough training to pass the skills test. Generally, 
however, with or without formal training, drivers individually prepare 
for the CDL test by studying such areas as vehicle inspection 
procedures, off-road vehicle maneuvers, and operating a CMV in traffic.
    By 1991, Congress had become concerned about the quality of this 
training. As a result, section 4007(a)(1) of ISTEA required the Agency 
to study the effectiveness of private sector training efforts, to 
commence a rulemaking on the need to require training of entry-level 
drivers of CMVs, and to report to Congress on the results.
The Adequacy Report
    In 1992, FHWA began to examine the effectiveness of private sector 
training. The result was a 1995 report entitled ``Assessing the 
Adequacy of Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Training'' (the 1995 
Adequacy Report), which the Secretary of Transportation transmitted to 
Congress in 1996. A copy of the report is in the docket for this 
rulemaking.
    In developing the Adequacy Report, the FHWA first assembled two 
groups of people experienced in motor carrier operations: one from the 
trucking sector and the other from the motorcoach and school bus 
sectors. These groups first identified baseline training standards for 
both the cargo- and passenger-transporting segments of the CMV 
industry. The truck group selected the Model Curriculum as a baseline. 
The bus group selected a combination of the Model Curriculum and the 
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) ``School Bus 
Driver Instructional Program,'' developed in 1974. The groups reached a 
consensus on minimum requirements for the numbers of class and practice 
driving hours, student/teacher ratios, and course topics.
    The question then was whether driver training could be effective in 
the absence of the formal instruction embodied in the baseline 
standards selected by the truck and bus experts. Without much analysis 
or data, the FHWA concluded formal training \3\ is the key to adequate 
training. The Adequacy Report defined ``effectiveness'' as ``the 
prevalence or frequency with which the motor carriers * * * provided 
formal training for their entry-level drivers'' (Adequacy Report, 
Executive Summary, p. 2). Evidence of the relationship, if any, between 
certain types and amounts of training and a reduction in crashes was 
scarce and statistically questionable.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ ``Entry-level training'' as the term is used in the Adequacy 
Report, includes all pre-service, on-the-job, and in-service 
training during the first 3 years of a driver's experience. ``Formal 
training'' included only the pre-service training received through 
established programs of instruction presented by schools or the 
carriers (Id., p.13).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The next step involved collecting information on and analyzing 
training programs currently offered by the cargo and passenger segments 
of the motor carrier industry. The groups developed an algorithm that 
they used to quantitatively compare existing driver training with the 
baselines.
    In the final step, the study surveyed both drivers and employers. 
The survey asked 192 drivers what percentage of drivers they thought 
were adequately trained by training schools.
    The conclusion of both the training analysis and the driver survey 
was that the heavy truck, motorcoach, and school bus segments of the 
CMV industry were not providing adequate entry-level driver training 
(Id., p. 6). The Adequacy Report also stated that ``* * * it appears

[[Page 73229]]

the present level of training adequacy is not likely to improve due to 
the actions of the private sectors themselves (Id., pg. 7).''
    The Adequacy Report also made extensive comments on the form that 
``adequate'' entry-level training would take. The report found that 
there was general agreement among transportation and training officials 
that the Model Curriculum, developed in the 1980's, represented an 
``adequate content and approach for training truck drivers.'' The 
report recommended the Model Curriculum as the starting point for 
defining adequate training. It also included criteria involving ``* * * 
classroom hours, practice (off-street and on-street) hours, student/
teacher ratios, behind-the wheel time, and course content topics (Id., 
p. 15).'' The Adequacy Report did not reach a conclusion as to whether 
``testing-based,'' ``training-based'' or ``performance-based'' 
approaches to entry-level driver training would be more effective.
    The Adequacy Report took the intuitive position that entry-level 
driver training is beneficial. However, it found ``* * * no evidence of 
a relationship between adequacy of the training the driver reported 
receiving and his/her frequency of crashes (Id., p. 10).'' The Adequacy 
Report included a literature review that also failed to identify 
studies or data indicating a positive correlation between driver 
training and crash reduction (Id., p.22).
    The Adequacy Report stated, ``Few will argue that training is not 
necessary for CMV drivers. It is hard to imagine someone safely 
operating a heavy truck, motorcoach, or school bus without at least 
guidance from an experienced operator and a chance to practice the 
basic driving skills. FHWA and elements of the private sectors have 
gone beyond this in recommending formal training for CMV drivers 
because it is the only way to assure that all of the necessary 
knowledge and skills are covered, using a structure that maximizes the 
chances that learning will occur'' (Adequacy Report, Volume III, pp. 7-
24).
Previous Rulemakings
    Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) and Public Meeting. 
Pursuant to section 4007(a)(2) of ISTEA, the Agency began a rulemaking 
proceeding on the need to require training of all entry-level CMV 
drivers. On June 21, 1993, the Agency published an ANPRM in the Federal 
Register entitled ``Commercial Motor Vehicles: Training for All Entry 
Level Drivers'' (58 FR 33874). The Agency asked 13 questions that 
addressed training adequacy standards, curriculum requirements, the 
CDL, the definition of ``entry-level driver,'' training, pass rates, 
and costs. The Agency received 152 comments that were discussed in the 
preamble to the subsequent NPRM.
    On November 13, 1996, twenty-six people participated in a public 
meeting to discuss mandatory training for entry-level CMV drivers.
    There was no consensus in the written or oral comments on the issue 
of mandated entry-level driver training.
    Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM). The FMCSA published an NPRM 
in the Federal Register on Friday, August 15, 2003 (68 FR 48863). The 
Agency received 38 comments; they were analyzed in the preamble to the 
2004 final rule. For purposes of the NPRM, FMCSA defined an entry-level 
driver as a person with less than two years experience operating a CMV 
that requires a CDL.
    The Agency proposed training for entry-level drivers based on three 
main principles. First, the Agency focused the NPRM requirements on 
drivers included in the Adequacy Report; i.e., only drivers in the 
heavy truck, motorcoach, and school bus industries. Second, the NPRM 
focused on drivers who operate in interstate commerce subject to the 
Motor Carrier Safety Act of 1984. Third, the Agency limited the NPRM to 
those training topics that extend beyond the scope of the CDL tests.
    The NPRM proposed training in the following areas: (1) Driver 
medical qualification and drug and alcohol testing, (2) driver hours of 
service rules, (3) driver wellness, and (4) whistleblower protection. 
The Agency believed that training in these four areas would serve to 
establish a baseline of safety for entry-level CMV drivers at a 
reasonable cost for drivers or employers. The NPRM did not specify a 
required number of hours for the training or indicate who would provide 
the training. However, the Agency's cost-effectiveness estimate was 
premised on 10.5 hours of training for heavy truck and motorcoach 
drivers and 4.5 hours of training for school bus drivers. The FMCSA 
proposed only two training topics for school bus drivers: Driver 
wellness and whistleblower protection.
    The NPRM proposed that the employer would have to maintain a 
training certificate in the driver's personnel file showing that the 
driver had received the training.
    Final Rule. After review and analysis of the 38 comments on the 
NPRM, the Agency published a final rule in the Federal Register on May 
21, 2004 (69 FR 29384). The final rule codified the entry-level driver 
training requirements at 49 CFR part 380, subpart E, in much the same 
way that they were proposed, with a few minor adjustments.
    All of the relevant documents from previous rulemakings on topics 
related to this NPRM are in the docket for this rulemaking as 
identified at the beginning of this notice.
DC Circuit Decision
    The Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety (Advocates) challenged 
the rule in the DC Circuit. The Advocates argued that the final rule 
ignored earlier Agency recommendations because the Adequacy Report had 
concluded that effective entry-level driver training needed to include 
behind-the-wheel instruction on how to operate a heavy vehicle. 
Instead, FMCSA required training that focused on areas unrelated to the 
hands-on training of a CMV operator. In its December 2005 decision, the 
court agreed with the petitioner and remanded the rule to the Agency 
for further consideration consistent with the decision.\4\ The court 
did not vacate the 2004 final rule, which remains in effect.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \4\ Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety v. Federal Motor 
Carrier Safety Administration, 429 F.3d 1136, at 1145 (DC Cir. 
2005).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Training Research and Studies
    Since completing the Adequacy Report, the Agency has continued to 
study the problems related to training commercial motor vehicle 
operators.
    Transportation Research Board (TRB) Reviews. In 2004, FMCSA 
sponsored the TRB report ``Training of Commercial Motor Vehicle 
Drivers'' (Synthesis 5).\5\ A copy of that report is in the docket for 
this rulemaking. For Synthesis 5, TRB researchers conducted an 
extensive literature review and surveyed experts in the CMV driver 
training field to identify training tools and techniques that hold the 
greatest potential to improve CMV safety. The following ``recommended 
practices for improving training effectiveness for entry-level CMV 
drivers are supported by this synthesis'' (Synthesis 5, p. 2): (1) 
Acceptance and adherence to standards put forward by the Professional 
Truck Driver Institute (PTDI), (2) ``finishing training'' for solo 
drivers, (3) use of multimedia instructional materials, (3) appropriate 
uses of affordable simulation options, (4) expansion of use of skid 
pads, and (5) employment of

[[Page 73230]]

videos for health, wellness, and lifestyle issues.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \5\ Staplin, L., Lococo, K., Decina, L., and Bergoffen, G. 
(2004), Training of Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers. Commercial 
Truck and Bus Safety Synthesis Program, Transportation Research 
Board, Washington, DC.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In 2006, FMCSA contracted with TRB for a synthesis report on 
commercial motor vehicle driver training curricula and delivery methods 
and their effectiveness (Synthesis 13).\6\ A copy of this report is in 
the docket. The purpose of Synthesis 13 is to provide information to 
assist the commercial vehicle safety community in assessing CMV 
training practices and their effectiveness.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \6\ Brock, J., McFann, J., Inderbitzen, R., and Bergoffen, G. 
(2007). Synthesis on Effectiveness of Commercial Motor Vehicle 
Driver Training Curricula and Delivery Methods. Commercial Truck and 
Bus Safety Synthesis Program, Transportation Research Board, 
Washington, DC.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In its conclusions, Synthesis 13 describes six aspects of CMV 
driver training in which shortcomings may exist: Content, instructional 
methods, trainers, training and curriculum design, measurement 
standards, and operator abilities. Each is described briefly as 
follows:
    1. Content: There are no national curricular standards, but when 
various curricula are examined, little content difference can be found. 
There is general agreement across the industry that the 1985 FHWA Model 
Curriculum forms the core content of commercial driving training. That 
standard has not been updated since 1985. The industry should use a 
systematically developed modern commercial driver training curriculum.
    2. Instructional Methods: By far, the favorite method for training 
commercial drivers is a combination of classroom lectures and 
supervised driving. Most of the research findings on adult learning and 
instructional technology from the last 30 years have not been adopted 
by a significant number of commercial driving enterprises. In those 
cases where advanced technologies are being applied, early data 
indicate that well designed computer based instruction, including 
simulation, can improve student performance and also realize 
efficiencies in the instructional process. Distance learning shows 
great promise for post-licensing training.
    3. Train the Trainers: It is natural that older, experienced 
drivers are selected to be instructors, no matter if the training is 
administered by a school, carrier, bus company, or transit agency. But 
there is no evidence that a person who is a job expert is necessarily a 
good teacher. There are two clusters of skills a good driver training 
instructor must possess beyond driving competence. Classroom skills 
(presentation fundamentals, using classroom equipment, listening to 
students) are well recognized as part of good train-the-trainer 
programs. The second cluster of skills, required of a behind-the-wheel 
instructor, consists of observational fundamentals, explaining 
activities in understandable and behavioral terms, remaining calm, and 
possessing the ability to anticipate risky situations. Since there are 
no standards for CMV driver training instructors, this role in the 
training process is extremely variable.
    4. Lack of Systematic Training Design: As discussed above, the 
motor carrier and training school industries have reached an informal 
consensus on the subject matter of commercial driver training. However, 
it has been over 20 years since a formal curriculum design for 
commercial drivers was systematically developed. In that time, the CDL 
program has become law, new technologies and regulations for truck and 
bus operations have had a major impact on the drivers, and the 
collective knowledge about what affects commercial driver's performance 
(e.g., fatigue, distraction, age) has grown significantly.
    5. Lack of Standards for Measuring the Effectiveness of Driver 
Training Programs: Currently, the only generally acceptable standard 
for measuring the effectiveness of commercial driver training is the 
number of graduates who can pass their CDL tests. In both the survey 
and in interviews, schools reported that they also track the number of 
graduates that are hired by carriers. Motor carriers, motorcoach 
operations, and transit agencies report that they are sure that 
training reduces crashes; however, there is little or no data that 
support that view. Standards purporting to measure training 
effectiveness tend to measure processes (classroom hours, time spent 
behind the wheel) rather than specific performance outcomes.
    6. CMV Operator Abilities: There has been recent research on the 
capabilities and limitations of adolescent drivers. However, a similar 
scientific approach to commercial drivers is lacking. If CMV trainers 
understood more about the learning styles, cognitive strategies, and 
past educational experiences, training could be tailored to the 
relevant needs of the individual student. A set of diagnostic tests 
that could funnel students into the optimum learning context would 
improve commercial driver training.
    The authors of Synthesis 13 stated, ``Although the literature 
review produced instances of driving improvement linked to specific 
training interventions (e.g., simulators) there are no general data 
linking decreased crash rates to formal training programs. The two 
primary reasons for this are: (1) Training, as a concept, is not well 
nor operationally defined and (2) there are no generally agreed upon 
standards by which various training programs can be compared. A third 
problem is the likelihood that most training effects are felt in the 
first six months of a driver being on the road'' (Synthesis 13, p. 22).
Responding to TRB Review Conclusions
    It would require years of research, systems design, standards 
development, and cost-benefit analysis involving many stakeholders to 
fully address the shortcomings identified in the TRB Syntheses 5 and 13 
reports. This NPRM proposes core training for CDL applicants. The 
proposal includes minimum curricular requirements that were developed 
by FHWA in cooperation with the driver training industry, and that have 
elicited ``general agreement across the industry'' (Id., p. 2). Minimum 
qualification standards for instructors are established, flexibility in 
use of various instructional methods is provided, and testing standards 
are specified.
    The FMCSA believes that the mandatory training proposed in this 
NPRM need not be delayed until further research is conducted, standards 
developed, etc. The CMV driver-training industry will continue to 
address these issues, and the Agency and other interested parties will 
continue their research and development efforts. FMCSA will also 
monitor CMV driver training. In the meantime, FMCSA believes that the 
proposals in this NPRM would help entry-level CDL drivers learn to 
operate more safely.
    The following remarks relate to the six aspects of CMV training in 
which shortcomings were identified in Synthesis 13. The FMCSA invites 
comments to the docket regarding each of these topics.
    1. Content: Although the Model Curriculum has not been re-issued by 
a government agency since its original publication by FHWA in 1985, it 
has been formally updated on a regular basis by PTDI, and it remains 
the generally accepted basis for most current CMV driver-training 
curricula. The curricula in this proposed rule would be consistent with 
the standards currently adopted by many professional CMV driver-
training schools and associations. Comments to this NPRM will be 
considered when determining the necessity and urgency of initiating a 
formal, official update to the original 1985 FHWA Model Curriculum.
    2. Instructional Methods: The FMCSA agrees that recent changes in 
instructional technology, such as

[[Page 73231]]

simulators, computer-based instruction, and ``distance learning'' can 
be effective in improving the quality and reducing the length of CMV 
driving instruction. The FMCSA is currently engaged in a multi-year 
research project, titled ``Truck Simulator Validation (SimVal),'' to 
determine the effectiveness of driving simulators in CMV training. The 
SimVal project will examine the subsequent driving performance records 
of four groups of new CDL drivers. Group 1 will receive 8 weeks of 
PTDI-certified training including behind-the-wheel training in a 
conventional tractor-trailer. Group 2 will receive the same training, 
but substitute a driving simulator for two-thirds of the behind-the-
wheel training. Group 3 will receive a compressed (1 to 3 week) 
training program focusing primarily on passing a CDL examination. Group 
4 will receive no formal training, which will allow evaluation of 
training in general compared to no formal training.
    As data from the SimVal project and others become available to 
measure the effectiveness of these technologies and adopt standards for 
their use in a CMV driver-training environment, FMCSA will consider the 
need for further regulatory revisions.
    3. Train the Trainers: In proposed Sec.  380.609, this NPRM would 
adopt basic standards for both classroom and skills instructors. In 
addition, by requiring that all training be conducted at an accredited 
educational institution or program, the proposed rule would result in 
additional professional standards for instructors as determined by the 
accreditation criteria.
    4. Lack of Systematic Training Design: Comments to this NPRM will 
be considered when determining the necessity, urgency, and best method 
of initiating a systematic design for CMV driver training. This would 
be part of the ``content'' review discussed in item 1, above.
    5. Lack of Standards for Measuring the Effectiveness of Driver 
Training Programs: Currently, there are no data available to permit 
comparison of CMV driver training to the subsequent safety performance 
of the driver. In particular, no accessible records of training exist. 
By requiring standardized training as of a specified date, and by 
requiring certain information about that training to be entered into 
the Commercial Driver License Information System (CDLIS), this proposed 
rule would provide the baseline data needed to begin to study the 
effectiveness of the training when compared to the actual crash 
experience of the drivers. In addition, the Agency intends to continue 
working closely with professionals in the field of CMV driver training 
to identify additional methods of measuring the effectiveness of CMV 
driver training.
    6. CMV Operator Abilities: Synthesis 13 mentioned the tailoring of 
training to the relevant needs of each student, and suggested the 
potential use of diagnostic tests to ``* * * funnel students into the 
optimum learning contest. * * *'' The tests, tools, and standards for 
customizing driver training to an individual student's needs do not yet 
exist on the scale necessary for development of regulatory provisions. 
However, these are currently being developed, implemented, and studied 
in training programs operated by large motor carriers and by CMV 
driver-training institutions. The FMCSA will continue to monitor and 
study the appropriateness of incorporating these concepts into 
regulatory provisions.
    Large Truck Crash Causation Study (LTCCS). In September 2006, FMCSA 
conducted further analysis on the recently released FMCSA/National 
Highway Traffic Safety Administration Large Truck Crash Causation Study 
(LTCCS) for data regarding the training and experience of commercial 
drivers involved in crashes. The LTCCS provides information on nearly 
one thousand selected truck crashes from around the country.
    The LTCCS data specify many characteristics of each crash, 
including the training of the drivers involved and whether or not the 
driver was at fault. However, analysis using the LTCCS was inconclusive 
and did not identify any statistically significant difference between 
trained and untrained drivers with regard to crash frequency. Analysts 
reported that the relatively small sample size and difficulty in 
differentiating the effects of training, experience, and age precluded 
useful conclusions.

C. Request for Comment on the Need for the Regulation

    Although FMCSA believes that this proposal will improve the ability 
of entry-level drivers to operate more safely and reduce the likelihood 
that they will be involved in crashes, the agency has noted the lack of 
research findings indicating a relationship between standardized driver 
training and increased safety. Specifically,
     In the Adequacy Report, which included a literature 
review, the FHWA found no statistically valid relationship between 
specific types and amounts of training and crash rates.
     The TRB's Synthesis 13 found no research data that linked 
a reduction in crash rates to formal training programs.
     An analysis of the data produced in the LTCCS failed to 
identify a statistically significant difference in crash frequency 
between trained and untrained drivers.
    Given the lack of data that would indicate that the training 
requirements in this proposed rule would result in a reduction in crash 
rates, FMCSA solicits comments on the analytic basis and justification 
for this proposed rule. Comments are specifically invited that would 
address any of the research gaps that make it impossible to demonstrate 
a relationship between increased systematic training and improved 
safety.

III. General Discussion of the Proposal

A. Scope and Applicability

    Successful completion of training required by this proposed rule 
would ensure that an applicant for a commercial driver's license (CDL) 
had successfully acquired essential knowledge and skills, based on 
classroom and behind-the-wheel training, to safely operate a CMV. The 
CDL knowledge and skills testing programs administered by State driver 
licensing agencies (SDLAs) would confirm that the applicant possesses 
and can demonstrate the minimum knowledge and skills. After obtaining 
the CDL and beginning to work for a motor carrier, the CDL holder would 
usually undergo further ``finishing training'' and supervision from the 
employer to ensure the driver has safe driving abilities. This NPRM 
addresses the first part of the CMV driver's training--that obtained 
prior to being issued a CDL.
    The new training requirements proposed in this NPRM would apply to 
all persons applying for a CDL for the first time who intend to operate 
CMVs in interstate commerce, and to persons upgrading from one class of 
CDL to another. The requirements would become operational 3 years after 
the effective date of the final rule. The requirements would apply to 
all persons required under Sec.  383.3 to have a CDL, except for: (1) 
Those who intend to operate exclusively in intrastate commerce; (2) 
those who are excepted from obtaining a CDL under paragraphs (c) and 
(d) of Sec.  383.3 \7\; and (3) those who obtain a restricted license 
under paragraphs (e), (f), and (g) of Sec.  383.3 \8\.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \7\ Certain military personnel, farmers, firefighters, emergency 
response vehicle drivers, and drivers removing snow and ice.
    \8\ Certain drivers in farm-related service industries and in 
the pyrotechnic industry.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    A person who holds or obtains a CDL within 3 years after the 
effective date of the final rule would not be required to

[[Page 73232]]

meet these training requirements. However, 3 years after the effective 
date of this rule, a person whose CDL has been revoked or had expired 
more than 4 years earlier would be required to meet these training 
requirements. These training requirements would apply to all classes 
\9\ of CDLs, although the curriculum requirements specified in appendix 
B would be different for Class A and for Class B/C license applicants.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \9\ Throughout this preamble, the commonly-used ``class'' is 
used to refer to the CDL ``groups'' as described in Part 383.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In 2006, FMCSA personnel visited various training facilities to 
gain the benefit of their expertise. The training facilities chosen 
were Delaware Technical and Community College, a public school; 
Schneider National, Inc., a motor carrier; National Tractor Trailer 
School, Inc., a private school; and The SAGE Corp., a nationwide 
organization of 30 professional truck driver schools. All of these 
training entities agreed that current knowledge and skills testing for 
the CDL does not negate the need for training. They also agreed that 
training should be a prerequisite for the CDL. While FMCSA acknowledges 
these training facilities have a vested interest in increasing training 
requirements, the Agency believes that entry-level driver training 
should be a prerequisite for the CDL.
    Under the proposed requirements, a person applying for a CDL would 
have to provide a Driver Training Certificate containing the required 
information and certifications to the State driver's license agency 
(SDLA). The State would have to include a record of the certificate in 
the Commercial Driver License Information System (CDLIS) and retain a 
copy or image of the certificate.
    This NPRM also includes proposed requirements for the training 
program, including specific curriculum requirements and driver-
instructor requirements, described below.

B. Curriculum Content

    This NPRM contains minimum, mandated training requirements designed 
to enhance CMV safety. The mandated entry-level training concentrates 
on driver skills directly related to CMV safety. It is based on the 
FHWA Model Curriculum that addresses basic operation, safe operating 
practices, vehicle maintenance, and non-vehicle activities. As noted 
earlier, the training standards embodied in the Model Curriculum are 
not based on any research data indicating that drivers are more or less 
likely to be involved in crashes, depending on the type and duration of 
their training. Accordingly, the agency invites commenters to provide 
information or research data that could demonstrate the relative 
effectiveness of the Model Curriculum compared to other training 
standards.
    The Adequacy Report tried to determine what form ``adequate'' 
entry-level training should take. The report stated that, ``With regard 
to heavy trucks, there is general agreement in the industry that the 
model tractor-trailer driver curriculum developed by the FHWA in the 
mid-1980s represents an adequate content and approach for training 
truck drivers.'' Although the Model Curriculum has not been formally 
updated since its original publication in 1985, it has been updated by 
private organizations such as PTDI, and it remains the generally-
accepted basis for many current CMV driver-training curricula.
    The Agency is proposing entry-level training that would be 
applicable to the operators of all types of CMVs, but would vary 
according to the class of CDL, as outlined in proposed appendix B to 
part 380. In developing these curricula, FMCSA compared the 
requirements of the FHWA Model Curriculum, the PTDI core curriculum, 
and the curricula and experiences of driver-training facilities 
surveyed by FMCSA personnel to define the core safety-training 
elements. The Agency chose curriculum topics that would provide 
training directly related to CMV safety. The FMCSA eliminated any 
peripheral training topics which, although worthwhile to the industry, 
are not related to safety.
    The training programs proposed in part 380 appendix B are described 
in general terms and rely on testing and performance-based concepts, 
but the Agency believes it is necessary to specify both a minimum 
number of hours of training and the percentage of a student's time 
dedicated to behind-the-wheel training. These requirements would help 
to ensure the adequacy and uniformity of training. FMCSA seeks comments 
regarding methods of ensuring the adequacy and quality of training if 
minimum hours were not specified, including behind-the-wheel training. 
To what extent could performance standards be substituted for mandatory 
training time?
    Difficulties arise in matching specific curriculum requirements to 
the classes of CDLs for which the training would qualify an applicant. 
The curriculum for applicants for Class A CDLs is well-established in 
the Model Curriculum; Class A covers all large, articulated vehicles, 
usually tractor-trailers. However, Class B vehicles include both large 
straight trucks and buses. A separate curriculum that included 
passenger-safety issues would potentially include material not needed 
by a trainee who does not intend to obtain a passenger endorsement. 
And, since Class C CDLs are not based on vehicle configuration, but 
rather on passenger or hazardous materials use, the issue of curriculum 
development becomes even more complex. At the time an applicant applies 
for a Class C CDL, many States require that a passenger or hazardous 
materials endorsement also be obtained, even though not specifically 
required at that time by provisions of 49 CFR parts 383 or 384.
    Further complications develop when considering upgrades in license 
classes or the addition of endorsements. Would a separate ``add on'' 
training component be needed specifically for those changing from one 
class to another or adding a specific endorsement? In this NPRM, the 
Agency has proposed only two curricula, contained in Parts I and II of 
Appendix B. Part I is for Class A CDL applicants, and Part II is for 
Class B and C applicants. The FMCSA invites comments and proposals 
regarding alternative methods of matching specific curricula components 
to licensing actions involving the State driver licensing agency 
(SDLA). For example, if a driver wants to upgrade from a Class B to a 
Class A CDL, what training should be required, and what type of 
training certificate should be presented to the SDLA? Should the driver 
be required to complete the entire Class A classroom and behind-the-
wheel (BTW) training, or should a more limited supplemental training 
curriculum be required? Should a supplemental curriculum include 
modifications to both the classroom and BTW components?
    The Adequacy Report determined that effective training for CMV 
drivers required behind-the-wheel instruction on how to operate a heavy 
vehicle. The proposed entry-level training curriculum contains 44 hours 
of practical behind-the-wheel experience for Class A applicants and 32 
hours for Class B and C applicants. Vehicles requiring a Class A CDL 
are typically tractor-trailer combinations or large straight trucks 
towing trailers. The training standards for operating Class A vehicles 
are outlined in Part I of appendix B.
    FMCSA believes that the skills to operate Class B and C vehicles 
are similar enough to be covered by the same training program, as 
outlined in Part II of Appendix B. Class B vehicles, while also over 
26,000 pounds GVWR,

[[Page 73233]]

are more represented by operators of straight trucks and buses, which 
do not have the same operating characteristics as tractor-trailers.
    Class C vehicles include those that do not meet the larger size/
weight requirements for Class A, but which carry placardable quantities 
of hazardous materials or certain numbers of passengers. In some cases, 
Class C could include a standard automobile. For these reasons, the 
Agency believes that fewer behind-the-wheel training hours are needed 
for Class B/C applicants. The proposed classroom training for Class B/C 
applicants is similar to that for Class A, except for provisions 
associated with articulated vehicles and certain other topics 
applicable to tractor-trailers. This results in fewer classroom 
training hours for Class B/C applicants than for Class A.
    For Class A applicants, the mandatory minimum hours of behind-the-
wheel training must be conducted in a traditional tractor-trailer 
combination for which a Class A CDL would be required. For Class B 
applicants, the mandatory minimum hours of behind-the-wheel training 
must be conducted in a vehicle representative of that class. For Class 
C applicants, the mandatory minimum hours of behind-the-wheel training 
must be conducted in a straight-truck having a gross vehicle weight 
rating of at least 14,000 pounds. Where appropriate in Class C 
training, the use of a trailer in addition to the required straight-
truck is recommended.
    The Class B/C training curriculum is intended to include those 
elements common to the safe operation of any CMV. Drivers of vehicles 
requiring a Class B CDL primarily operate either large straight trucks 
or buses. Drivers of vehicles requiring a Class C CDL generally operate 
``small'' passenger-carrying vehicles or vehicles requiring placarding 
for hazardous materials (both 26,000 or less GVWR; otherwise, a Class A 
or B CDL would be required). Mandatory training requirements for 
drivers transporting hazardous materials already exist in 49 CFR 
172.704. These Class C drivers must also obtain a CDL hazardous 
materials endorsement that requires a separate knowledge test (49 CFR 
383.93). Drivers of passenger-carrying vehicles must obtain a CDL 
passenger endorsement that requires separate knowledge and skills tests 
(49 CFR 383.93).
    The FMCSA seeks comments on the content and extent of proposed 
training for Class A and Class B/C applicants and whether a separation 
of Class B and C requirements into individual curricula would have 
merit. If so, comments are sought regarding the content of these 
separate courses. Comments are also sought regarding the minimum 
specifications for the type of vehicle that should be required for 
Class B and C behind-the-wheel training, recognizing that when applying 
for a CDL, the driver may not yet know the specific type of vehicle he 
or she will be operating.
    The Agency also seeks comments and data on the correlation between 
hours and content of training and the driving records of persons 
completing such training; i.e., data indicating the effectiveness of 
entry-level driver training.
    The proposed hours of training requirements are shown in the table 
below:

   Table 1.--Minimum Hours of Training Required by Part 380 Appendix B
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Minimum Hours
             Section              --------------------------------------
                                    Classroom      * BTW        Total
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       Part I: CLASS A APPLICANTS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) BASIC OPERATION..............           20           24           44
(2) SAFE OPERATING PRACTICES.....            8           17           25
(3) ADVANCED OPERATING PROCEDURES           15            3           18
(4) VEHICLE MAINTENANCE..........            7            0            7
(5) NON-DRIVING ACTIVITIES.......           26            0           26
                                  --------------------------------------
    Total........................           76           44          120
    Percentage...................          63%          37%         100%
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      Part II: CLASS B/C APPLICANTS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) BASIC OPERATION..............           15           18           33
(2) SAFE OPERATING PRACTICES.....            8           12           20
(3) ADVANCED OPERATING PROCEDURES           11            2           13
(4) VEHICLE MAINTENANCE..........            5            0            5
(5) NON-DRIVING ACTIVITIES.......           19            0           19
                                  --------------------------------------
    Total........................           58           32           90
    Percentage...................          64%          36%        100%
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Behind-the-wheel (BTW).

    Modern technology provides opportunities, not otherwise available 
to entry-level drivers, to learn safe driving techniques using 
computers and simulators. However, current research has not fully 
substantiated the equivalency of simulator training and behind-the-
wheel training.\10\ Therefore, although FMCSA encourages the use of 
simulators and computer-based instruction, and authorizes them when 
appropriate for classroom training, this NPRM does not propose to 
authorize substitution of simulator training for the minimum hours of 
behind-the-wheel training. The FMCSA requests references to any studies 
showing the effectiveness of simulator training and comments on the 
potential for substituting such training for actual driving time.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \10\ The FMCSA is currently conducting a 4-year ``Truck 
Simulator Validation Study'' to help determine whether simulators 
add value to truck driver training and longer-term safety 
performance.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The proposed curriculum lists the minimum number of hours an entry-

[[Page 73234]]

level driver must spend learning any core training element. To provide 
flexibility for instructors and drivers, however, the content of each 
unit of training is described in general terms. At the conclusion of 
the training, the driver-student must pass knowledge and skills tests 
to determine if he/she has mastered the required information. Tests 
must be based on the training provided to the driver-student and cover 
the entire range of information. The skills test must include all the 
maneuvers and operations practiced during the behind-the-wheel 
instruction.
    Training institutions would be required to administer these tests 
to their entry-level driver students. Only qualified instructors, as 
defined in the proposed rule, may administer and score tests.

C. Training Providers

    Entry-level drivers would have to successfully complete a training 
program that meets the requirements of subpart F and appendix B of part 
380. The FMCSA proposes that the training provider or program would 
have to be accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of 
Education (ED) or by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation 
(CHEA). A motor carrier could develop its own training program for 
entry-level drivers, but it would have to be accredited on the same 
basis as an independent training institution. On the other hand, motor 
carrier training programs or courses designed for drivers who already 
have CDLs would not be subject to this rule and would not require 
accreditation.
    FMCSA recognizes that the accreditation process could impose a 
burden both on professional driving schools and on carrier-run 
programs. It can take 1-2 years for a school or program to obtain 
accreditation by an agency recognized by ED or CHEA. Accrediting 
agencies often require that a school be in business for 2 years before 
applying for accreditation. However, accreditation is important because 
it demonstrates a commitment to meeting research-based standards, 
engaging in continuous improvement, and providing for quality assurance 
through self-evaluation and peer review. In addition, if a school is 
not accredited by an agency recognized by ED, the student may not be 
eligible for Federal educational assistance loan programs. This may be 
an important consideration for students who are paying for their own 
entry-level driver training.
    Extensive information about the accreditation process is available 
on the ED and CHEA Web sites at: http://www.ed.gov/admins/finaid/accred/index.html and http://www.chea.org. It is important to 
understand that ED and CHEA do not accredit institutions or programs 
directly. They officially recognize agencies that are authorized to 
accredit the institutions and programs. Although they do not accredit 
individual schools or programs, ED and CHEA maintain searchable 
databases of schools and programs that have been accredited by agencies 
recognized by them. Access to these databases is available though links 
on the ED and CHEA Web sites previously identified. The ED and CHEA 
point out that the information in these databases may not be completely 
current and accurate.
    On its Web site, CHEA maintains a list of all accrediting agencies 
recognized by ED, CHEA, or both. As of February 2006 (last update), the 
list contained 81 individual agencies. These agencies accredit schools, 
programs, or both. Some, but not all, of these agencies accredit 
schools or programs involving truck-driver training. Based on a 
``keyword'' search of databases at ED (http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/Search.asp) and the National Center for Education Statistics' College 
Opportunities Online Locater (http://www.NCES.ed.gov/ipeds/cool/) for 
truck-driver training programs, FMCSA identified approximately 130 
accredited schools, some of which have numerous operating locations.
    The following 11 agencies accredit most of these truck-driver 
training programs or schools: (1) Accrediting Commission of Career 
Schools and Colleges of Technology; (2) Council on Occupational 
Education; (3) Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, 
Commission on Higher Education; (4) Middle States Commission on 
Secondary Schools; (5) New England Association of Schools and Colleges, 
Commission on Institutions of Higher Learning; (6) North Central 
Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement; (7) 
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning 
Commission; (8) Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities; (9) 
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges; 
(10) the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting 
Commission for Schools, and; (11) the Accrediting Council for 
Continuing Education and Training.
    The FMCSA seeks comments regarding the appropriateness of 
accreditation as a means of maintaining quality control over the 
training provided, the ability of existing entry-level training 
facilities to acquire accreditation, and the necessity of acknowledging 
CHEA in addition to ED as an entity that may recognize accrediting 
agencies for purposes of this entry-level driver training. Comments are 
also sought regarding any possible alternatives to accreditation that 
would accomplish similar objectives.

D. Compliance and Enforcement

    Upon successful completion of the required training, the entry-
level driver would receive a Driver Training Certificate from the 
training institution. The certificate would have to include: (1) 
Information about the driver and the training institution; and (2) a 
certification signed by an official of the training institution under 
penalty of perjury that the driver has successfully completed the 
training. The entry-level driver would provide the certificate to his/
her SDLA as part of the CDL application process. The SDLA would have to 
review the certificate, include specified data from the certificate in 
the Commercial Driver License Information System (CDLIS), and retain a 
copy or image of the certificate in its records. An entry-level driver 
who failed to present a certificate meeting the requirements of this 
rule could not be issued a CDL.

E. Implementation Date

    FMCSA proposes to begin requiring compliance with the requirements 
set forth in this NPRM 3 years after the effective date of the final 
rule. The Agency believes the 3-year phase-in period would provide the 
States with sufficient time to pass any implementing legislation that 
may be required. States would also need time to modify their 
information systems to begin recording the Driver Training Certificate 
information onto the CDLIS driver record. The Agency is seeking 
comments about the ability of States to carry out the proposals in this 
rulemaking within the required timeframe and on the length of the 
implementation period in general.
    The proposed 3-year phase-in period would also allow time for the 
commercial driver training industry to develop and begin offering 
training that meets the proposed requirements. Some of these 
institutions would also need to obtain accreditation during this 
period.
    The Agency seeks comments about existing student capacity at 
training schools and whether the proposed 3-year implementation period 
is appropriate. The Agency also seeks comments on the probable costs of 
entry-level training and any anticipated impacts on carrier operations.

[[Page 73235]]

F. Changes to the Existing Rule

    The four types of entry-level training currently required by 
subpart E of part 380 would be incorporated into the new subpart F. 
Compliance with subpart F would be required 3 years after the effective 
date of the final rule. At that time, requirements for ensuring 
employees have received entry-level training and for maintaining 
records that show compliance, currently imposed on motor carriers by 
subpart E, would be removed. Training on driver qualification 
requirements, hours of service limitations, driver wellness, and 
whistleblower protection would be included in proposed appendix B to 
part 380, which will contain all of the curriculum requirements for 
expanded entry-level training.

IV. Section-by-Section Explanation of Proposed Changes

A. Subparts A-E of Part 380 and Appendix to Part 380

    Several amendments to part 380 would be needed to cover the entry-
level driver training in proposed subpart F. First, the current 
undesignated appendix containing the curriculum requirements for Longer 
Combination Vehicle (LCV) driver training would be re-designated as 
Appendix A, along with all references to that appendix. Second, the 
title of subpart D would be revised to read ``LCV Driver-Training 
Certification,'' so that there would be no confusion with the 
requirements in new subpart F for entry-level drivers. Third, the title 
of subpart E, which contains the current entry-level training 
requirements, would be revised to read, ``Entry-Level Training 
Requirements Before [date 3 years after effective date of final 
rule].'' A new Sec.  380.500 would be added to specify that compliance 
with current subpart E would not be required once new subpart F becomes 
effective. These changes would ensure a smooth transition from the 
current entry-level training rule to the more extensive requirements of 
subpart F. (See ``III.F. Changes to the Existing Rule,'' above.)
    Finally, throughout subpart E the term ``entry-level driver'' would 
be changed to read ``entry-level trainee,'' to differentiate between 
the current rule in subpart E and the proposed rule in subpart F. This 
is necessary because both subparts would be in the Code of Federal 
Regulations during the proposed 3-year implementation period. In the 
current rules, an ``entry-level driver'' who has already obtained a CDL 
must receive training on 4 training topics listed in Sec.  380.503. In 
this proposed rule, an ``entry-level driver'' would be a person who has 
not yet received a CDL and who must complete the proposed extensive 
training requirements in this NPRM. FMCSA proposes to use ``entry-level 
trainee'' for the drivers subject to current subpart E during the 
implementation period, to avoid confusion between the drivers subject 
to the current rules and those subject to the future training 
requirements.

B. Subpart F of Part 380 and Appendix B to Part 380

    Section 380.600, Compliance date for entry-level drivers. The 
proposed entry-level driver training requirements that would replace 
those in subpart E would be codified in a new subpart entitled 
``Subpart F--Entry-Level Driver Training and Driver-Instructor 
Requirements On and After [date 3 years after effective date of final 
rule].'' The title of subpart E and proposed Sec.  380.600 provide a 3 
year compliance period for the new training requirements to become 
effective. (See ``III.E. Implementation Date,'' above.)
    Section 380.601, Purpose and scope. Proposed Sec.  380.601 
specifies that subpart F establishes training requirements for entry-
level drivers, standards for the institutions that provide the 
training, qualification requirements for CMV driver-instructors, and 
the curriculum requirements for the training.
    Section 380.603, Applicability. Proposed Sec.  380.603 summarizes 
the applicability of the subpart. This is discussed in ``III.A. Scope 
and Applicability,'' above.
    Section 380.605, Definitions. Proposed Sec.  380.605 contains 
definitions for various terms used in subpart F. The definition for 
``behind-the-wheel training'' specifies that the student must have 
actual control of the power unit during the training; merely riding 
along or observing the operation of a CMV would not be considered 
behind-the-wheel training. The definition of ``entry-level driver'' 
would refer to persons applying for a CDL, whereas under the current 
rules in subpart E the term applies to drivers who already have CDLs 
and are employed by motor carriers. The terms ``classroom 
instruction,'' ``classroom instructor,'' ``qualified driver-
instructor,'' and ``skills instructor'' are all similar to the 
definitions of those terms in current subpart A. Finally, we would add 
a definition for the term ``training institution'' which would require 
that the institution be accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. 
Department of Education or by the Council for Higher Education 
Accreditation. Accreditation is discussed under ``III.C. Who Will 
Conduct the Training,'' above.
    Section 380.607, Requirement to complete entry-level driver 
training. Proposed Sec.  380.607 would cover the requirements for 
successfully completing the appropriate training. Paragraph (a) 
explains which curriculum requirements in Appendix B would apply to 
students, depending on the class of CDL they intend to obtain. 
Paragraph (b) contains the specification for the Driver Training 
Certificate, which the training institution would have to provide to 
students who successfully complete the appropriate training. Paragraph 
(c) provides that any applicant for a CDL would have to present the 
original copy of the Driver Training Certificate to his/her State 
driver's license agency when applying for a CDL.
    Section 380.609, Entry-level driver-instructor requirements. 
Proposed Sec.  380.609 would set forth the qualification requirements 
for CMV driver-instructors. Paragraph (a) contains the proposed 
requirements for classroom instructors and paragraph (b) contains the 
proposed requirements for skills instructors, i.e., instructors 
qualified to provide behind-the-wheel instruction. Paragraphs (a) and 
(b) would require instructors to pass or successfully complete courses 
they will instruct. However, current instructors would be 
grandfathered; and there would be a transition period allowing for 
instructors to meet the requirements of paragraphs (a) and (b) within 
the first 5 years after the effective date of the final rule. The 
extended time is necessary because new instructors would be required to 
successfully complete the course they are teaching, and some of these 
accredited courses will not be available until after the 3-year 
implementation period. This period would also allow for the development 
of a cadre of qualified instructors who could teach future instructors.
    Section 380.611, Driver testing. Proposed Sec.  380.611 would 
codify the requirements for testing students upon completion of their 
classroom and behind-the-wheel training. This testing should not be 
confused with the knowledge and skills tests required under part 383 
for persons applying for a CDL. The tests under part 383 determine 
whether the person is qualified for the CDL. The tests under Sec.  
380.611 determine whether the person has learned the material taught in 
the training program. Paragraph (a) would specify the testing methods 
to be used. Paragraph (b) describes the standard for

[[Page 73236]]

determining the proficiency of the student, and paragraph (c) describes 
the actions that would result in an automatic failure of the test.
    Appendix B, Entry-Level Driver Training Curriculum. Appendix B 
would describe the specific curriculum requirements for entry-level 
driver training. Parts I and II would contain the minimum program of 
instruction for Class A and Class B and C CDL applicants, respectively. 
Each part would contain five sections of training topics, including: 
basic operation, safe operating practices, advanced operating 
procedures, vehicle maintenance, and non-driving activities. For each 
section, the minimum number of hours of classroom training and behind-
the-wheel training would be specified. For more discussion, see ``III. 
B. Curriculum Content,'' above.

C. Part 383, Commercial Driver's License Standards; Requirements and 
Penalties

    Several amendments to part 383 would be necessary to incorporate 
the requirement for a Driver Training Certificate into the procedures 
for applying for and issuing a CDL. A new paragraph (a)(10) would be 
added to Sec.  383.71 to add the Driver Training Certificate to the 
list of items an applicant must provide when initially applying for a 
CDL. Section 383.73(a) would be amended to require the States to get 
the original Driver Training Certificate from the applicant, document 
the training in the driver's history file in CDLIS, and keep a copy of 
the training certificate. Paragraph (d) would clarify when a driver 
with an intrastate-only CDL would be required to obtain training before 
applying for an upgrade to an unrestricted interstate CDL. If the 
application for the upgrade is within 3 years of the date the 
intrastate-only CDL was first issued, the applicant would need to 
complete the training. If application for the upgrade occurs beyond 3 
years of the date of issuance of the intrastate-only CDL, the State 
could exempt the applicant from training as long as he/she has not had 
more than one license, had the license suspended, revoked, or 
cancelled, or had certain motor vehicle convictions during the 3 years 
before the requested upgrade. An applicant upgrading a CDL from Class B 
or C to Class A would be required to complete all of the training 
required for the higher class. The penalties for false information in 
Sec.  383.73(g) would be amended to add falsification of information on 
the Driver Training Certificate. In addition, Sec.  383.95 would be 
amended to add a reference to the procedures for removing the 
intrastate restriction that is being added to Sec.  383.73(d).

D. Part 384, State Compliance With Commercial Driver's License Program

    A new Sec.  384.230 would be added to part 384 to specify that the 
States must follow the procedures prescribed in Sec.  383.73 for 
obtaining, recording, and maintaining the Driver Training Certificate.

V. Regulatory Analyses and Notices

A. Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory Planning and Review) and DOT 
Regulatory Policies and Procedures

    FMCSA has determined that this proposed rule is a significant 
regulatory action under the terms of Executive Order 12866, and 
significant under the Department of Transportation's regulatory 
policies and procedures because of substantial public, industry and 
Congressional interest. Furthermore, this proposed rule is in response 
to the Order by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia 
Circuit (Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety v. FMCSA, 429 F.3d 1136, 
DC Cir. 2005) remanding to FMCSA for further consideration the 2004 
final rule concerning entry-level training.
    Summarized below is a draft preliminary regulatory analysis of the 
costs and benefits of this undertaking. A preliminary analysis of the 
regulatory impact of this proposed rule on small entities is in the 
docket for this rulemaking.
Summary Cost-Benefit Analysis
    The FMCSA already requires 10 hours of training for entry-level 
drivers. This proposed rule would require 110 additional hours of 
training for entry-level drivers of heavy trucks seeking a Class A 
license. It would require 80 additional hours for those seeking either 
a Class B or C license. Therefore, the total amount of training 
proposed is 120 hours for Class A and 90 hours for Classes B and C. The 
program of instruction includes both classroom and behind-the-wheel 
training. The behind-the-wheel driving component would require at least 
44 hours for Class A and 32 hours for Classes B and C.
    We estimate the total number of entry-level truck drivers affected 
by this rule to average 40,200 per year for the next 10 years. (We will 
round numbers to the nearest hundred or thousand where appropriate.) We 
estimate the numbers of affected entry-level drivers in the school bus 
and motor-coach industry segments at 119 and 2,600 per year, 
respectively, over the next 10 years. (As described below in the 
Estimated Costs of the Proposed Rule section, the number of school bus 
drivers in interstate commerce is extremely small.) Therefore, the rule 
would affect only about 42,900 entry-level drivers annually. The 
estimated cost of mandatory training is $176.4 million annually and 
$1.325 billion (discounted at 7 percent) over the 10-year analysis 
period. Large trucks ultimately account for the vast majority of the 
total costs of this proposed rule--95 percent. Buses--school and inter-
city--account for the other 5 percent.
    The proposed standards for mandatory training for entry-level 
drivers of heavy trucks, school buses, and motor-coaches would promote 
the safe operation of CMVs nationwide. The total number of crashes 
potentially avoided through compliance with the rule is difficult to 
quantify, largely because of the absence of reliable information on the 
impact of training on the reduction of crashes.
    It requires $167.8 million annually to train the 40,200 entry-level 
large-truck drivers. At costs of $3.6 million per fatal-injury crash 
(fatal crash) and $195,000 per non-fatal-injury crash (non-fatal 
crash),\11\ a crash-reduction of 19.7 percent for the proposed rule's 
affected population--that is, entry-level interstate drivers who would 
not have obtained training were it not for the rule--would result in 
benefits of $167.8 million (so that the benefits of the rule equal the 
costs). Our analysis estimates that entry-level interstate drivers who 
without the rule would not be trained are responsible for 97 of the 
approximately 4,568 fatal crashes and 2,574 of the 121,473 non-fatal 
crashes that occur annually.\12\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \11\ Zaloshnja, Eduard and Ted Miller, ``Unit Costs of Medium 
and Heavy Truck Crashes,'' Pacific Institute for Research and 
Evaluation, December 2006, Tables 2 and 4.
    \12\ Summarized crash statistics from: http://ai.volpe.dot.gov/CrashProfile/NationalCrashProfileMain.asp.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    A 19.7 percent decrease in those crashes amounts to 19.1 and 507.2 
fewer fatal and non-fatal crashes, respectively. This reduction in 
total crashes represents a less than one-half of one percent (0.42 
percent) reduction from the annual totals.
    This 19.7 percent reduction does not have to occur annually for the 
rule to be cost effective. The number of crashes, 19.1 fatal and 507.2 
non-fatal, is in essence the number that has to be reduced by this 
``graduating class'' of 40,200 trainees over the length of the 
effectiveness of the training. If we assume that the effect of training 
lasts 2 years and that it is half as effective in the second year as 
the first, then

[[Page 73237]]

trainees would need to reduce crashes by 12.7 fatal and 338.1 non-fatal 
(first year) and then 6.4 and 169.1 (second year). In effect, they 
would only need to reduce by 13.1 percent the first year and 6.5 
percent the second.
    If we assume that the effect of training lasts 3 years and that it 
is half as effective in the second year as the first, and half as 
effective in the third year as the second,\13\ then trainees would need 
to reduce crashes by 10.9 fatal and 290 non-fatal (first year), 5.4 and 
145 (second year), and then 2.7 and 72 (third year). In effect, they 
would only need to reduce crashes by 11.3 percent the first year, 5.6 
percent the second, and 2.8 the third.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \13\ Final Regulatory Evaluation, Entry-Level Driver Training, 
Federal Highway Administration, May 1995, pages 21-22.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    For school bus drivers who would be affected by this proposed rule, 
the estimated annual cost to train the 119 entry-level drivers is 
$346,000, while the costs of fatal and non-fatal bus crashes are (using 
the large truck figures above) about $3.6 million and $195,000. 
Therefore, either one fewer fatal crash every 10 years or one fewer 
non-fatal crash every 2 years would be enough for the benefits of crash 
reduction to equal the costs.
    For intercity bus drivers, given the annual training cost for the 
2,591 entry-level drivers of $8.2 million and the costs of fatal and 
non-fatal crashes of $3.6 million and $195,000, 2.3 fewer fatal crashes 
or 42.2 fewer non-fatal crashes (or a combination of both) would 
produce benefits from crash reduction that are equal to the costs.
Estimated Costs of the Proposed Rule
    Direct costs associated with this proposed rule include the cost of 
providing training to entry-level drivers of heavy trucks, school 
buses, and motor-coaches and some relatively minor record keeping 
costs. The largest component of direct costs is the training cost. 
Additionally, we estimated indirect costs to the driver (or the 
employer), which are the driver's opportunity cost of time (i.e., the 
driver's hourly wage rate, assuming the driver would be working if he 
or she did not have to attend training).
    The two key factors in estimating the cost are the number of 
drivers who will need training and the hours of training that will be 
required. We estimate the number of entry-level drivers requiring 
training based on several factors, including employment trends, 
industry demand for transportation, expectations for economic growth, 
and an assumed increasing presence of trucking in the transportation 
field.

Number of Entry-Level Drivers of Heavy Trucks

    We used data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and FMCSA to 
estimate the number of drivers who would require entry-level driver 
training under this proposed rule. In their article, ``A Summary of 
Occupational Employment Projections to 2014,'' the BLS presented 
estimates of the current number of truck drivers as well as the number 
needed in 2014. BLS estimates that there are currently 1.74 million 
heavy truck drivers and another 1.04 million light or delivery truck 
drivers.\14\ The BLS forecasts that 507,000 new drivers of heavy trucks 
will be needed by 2014, 224,000 to fill new positions and 283,000 to 
replace current drivers, so an average of 50,700 new drivers will be 
needed for each of the next 10 years.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \14\ BLS definitions do not exactly match the regulatory 
categories used by the FMCSA. For instance, it is not clear how many 
of the 1.04 million drivers of light or delivery trucks are required 
to hold a CDL.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The BLS totals for CDL drivers tend to be lower than estimates 
established by FMCSA. For 2004, the FMCSA total of 4.20 million drivers 
\15\ was 51 percent higher than the BLS estimate of 2.78 million (the 
sum of heavy and light truck drivers reported above--1.74 + 1.04). For 
that reason, we adjusted the annual new-driver total of 50,700 by a 
factor of 1.51--to 76,600--to reflect what may be an under-
representation in the BLS when contrasted with our analysis.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \15\ FMCSA, Estimates for the number of CDL and non-CDL Drivers 
in the National Fleet, Based on May 2005 Motor Carrier Management 
Information System Data and 2003 Drug & Alcohol Survey; Unpublished, 
June 15, 2005.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Given the 76,600 driver baseline and assuming that 75 percent of 
entry-level drivers would operate in interstate commerce,\16\ the 
number of entry-level truck drivers potentially affected each year by 
this proposed rule is 57,400 (75 percent of 76,600).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \16\ Analysis Division, FMCSA, ``Regulatory Evaluation, Minimum 
Training Requirements For Entry-Level Commercial Motor Vehicle 
Operators Final Rule,'' September 2003. p. 5.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Further, if we assume 30 percent of the drivers would have received 
training regardless of whether this rule was in place or not,\17\ then 
17,200 of the 57,400 drivers would not be affected by this proposed 
rule. The cost to train these 17,200 is not a cost of this rule because 
these drivers would be trained regardless. That leaves 40,200 (70 
percent of 57,400) entry-level interstate drivers who would not receive 
training were it not for this rule.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \17\ http://www.ptdi.org/schools/schools.htm. The PTDI Web site 
indicated that there are currently 61 PTDI certified training 
programs. These 61 certified programs represent roughly 30 percent 
of the 200 programs estimated to be currently operating in the 
United States. Assuming a similar distribution for the percentage of 
drivers being trained by certified or accredited programs versus 
those attending non-certified or accredited and employer-sponsored 
training courses, we assumed that 30 percent of entry-level drivers 
are already being taught the content specified under this rule. This 
estimate is close to the 31 percent that were estimated to be 
``adequately'' trained in the driver survey of the 1995 FHWA 
Adequacy Study.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Number of Entry-Level Operators of School Buses

    BLS estimates that the school bus industry employed 463,000 drivers 
in 2004 and that about 526,000 drivers will be employed in 2014--for an 
overall growth rate of 13.6 percent over the next 10 years. In addition 
to the 63,000 new entry-level drivers to meet this growth, there will 
be an additional 101,000 entry-level drivers needed to replace the 
current pool of drivers. Therefore, about 21.8 percent of the 2004 pool 
of drivers will be replaced by 2014. An average of 16,400 new school 
bus drivers will be needed for each of the 10 years in the BLS forecast 
period. We increased the BLS estimate by a factor of 1.51 to correspond 
to our CDL analysis--for an adjusted annual total of 24,800.
    A recent FMCSA final rule (69 FR 29384, at 29398, May 21, 2004), 
addressing interstate school bus operations of local educational 
agencies, revealed that 32 percent of school bus drivers worked for 
non-governmental entities, mainly as contractors to the local 
educational agencies. However, not all of these drivers would be 
expected to receive training that would allow them to operate school 
buses in interstate commerce, since the number of non-home-to-school 
interstate trips by local education agencies represents less than 1 
percent of all school district trips, according to the same 2004 rule. 
FMCSA assumed in that rule that a non-governmental employer would train 
1.5 times more drivers than would be immediately required, since this 
provides the employer with short-term flexibility in its operations 
should the need for interstate school bus trips increase suddenly.
    Based on this, the number of entry-level bus drivers who we 
estimate would be potentially affected by this rule each year is a very 
small number--119 drivers. This is 1 percent (those who would typically 
make interstate-based trips) of the 32 percent (those working for non-
governmental contractors to local educational agencies) of the 
projected 24,800 entry-level drivers entering the industry each

[[Page 73238]]

year, multiplied by 1.5 to allow the employer greater flexibility in 
its operations.

Number of Entry-Level Drivers of Motor-Coaches

    The BLS estimates that there were 190,000 drivers of transit and 
intercity buses in 2004. The American Public Transportation Association 
(APTA) estimates that 143,000 people are employed in vehicle operations 
in the public transit agencies, but does not provide the number of 
drivers. The APTA figures may also include operations of private motor-
coach companies in the contract transit-commuter markets. The APTA's 
estimates of people employed in vehicle operations and BLS's estimates 
on the number of transit and intercity bus drivers provide an estimate 
of about 42,000 drivers employed in intercity buses. This is probably 
the lower range for drivers in the intercity market because it assumes 
about 1.2 drivers per motor-coach.\18\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \18\ According to Greyhound's annual 10K statement to Securities 
and Exchange Commission, driver to motor-coach ratio is about 1.65 
for their fleet in 2001.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    There are currently about 34,800 motor-coaches operated by about 
3,600 private motor-coach operators in the United States. There are no 
firm numbers on the proportion of motor-coaches used in the regularly 
scheduled services, contract commuters, charter, tours, and sightseeing 
markets. Assuming 2.5 drivers per motor-coach for about 6,000 motor-
coaches operating in the regular route scheduled services and 1.5 
drivers per motor-coach for the rest of the industry, the number of 
drivers operating motor-coaches is estimated as 58,200 in 2004.
    Assuming that the intercity bus industry will grow at an average 
1.28 percent per year for the next 10 years (and hence achieve the same 
overall growth rate of the school bus industry between 2004 and 2014), 
there will be 66,000 intercity bus drivers in 2014. In addition to the 
7,900 entry-level drivers required to meet the industry's growth, 
another 9,200 entry-level drivers will be needed for replacement.\19\ 
Therefore, we estimate the total number of entry-level drivers needed 
due to growth and replacement at 17,150 over the next 10 years or 1,715 
per year. Since the motor-coach industry's growth rate has lagged 
behind its school bus counterpart, this estimate probably provides an 
upper limit of the number of entry level drivers needed in the motor-
coach industry by 2014. Applying the adjustment-factor of 1.51 
(described above) increases the total from 1,715 to 2,600 drivers.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \19\ The replacement component for transit and inter-city bus 
drivers combined is 42,000. Inter-city bus drivers are 22 percent of 
the total of transit and intercity bus drivers combined. So the 
calculation of inter-city bus driver replacement component is 22 
percent of 42,000, or 9,200.999
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hours of Training

    This NPRM proposes that Class A drivers obtain an additional 110 
hours of training while Class B and C drivers would need 80 additional 
hours. Of the 75 percent of entry-level heavy-truck drivers we estimate 
would be affected by this rule (57,400), we assume that 30 percent (or 
17,200) are already being taught the content specified under this rule.
    We assume the remaining 70 percent (or 40,200 entry-level drivers) 
receive training via a non-accredited training program or from their 
employer. They would be required to undertake an additional 110 or 80 
hours (depending on class) of training.
    Using data on CDLs issued by the States in 2000, we estimate that 
64.5 percent were Class A and 35.5 percent Classes B and C. Applying 
these percentages to the 40,200 population, the split is 25,900 Class 
A, and 14,300 Class B and C. Given this class partition, 4 million 
additional hours of training to entry-level interstate large-truck 
drivers would be necessary to comply with the rule.
    This rule would apply to those entry-level school bus drivers 
employed by non-governmental entities who are subject to the same 
requirements as Class B truck and motor-coach drivers. Since each 
school bus driver needs a Class B license, we assume this rule would 
result in 80 hours of additional training for each entry-level driver 
subject to its requirements. Therefore, we estimate that each year 119 
entry-level school bus drivers would need an additional 80 hours of 
training for a total of 9,500 hours of training annually.
    The FMCSA does not have information on the proportion of entry-
level motor coach drivers who now receive training, nor is the Agency 
aware of any accredited training schools specifically for motor-coach 
drivers. Therefore, we estimate that all entry-level drivers of motor-
coaches affected by this proposed rule (2,591) are going to obtain 80 
hours of additional training. The total number of training hours 
necessary annually for motor coach drivers because of this rule would 
be 207,000.
    In total, for large trucks, school buses, and motor-coaches 
combined, an additional 4,211,000 hours of training would be necessary 
to meet the requirements of the proposed rule. Ninety-five percent of 
these additional hours would involve large trucks, while buses account 
for the other five percent.

Hourly Cost of Training

    The principal components of costs of entry-level drivers' training 
are the cost of providing the training and the opportunity cost of the 
drivers' time. The cost of providing training is straightforward: It 
consists of the costs of hiring an instructor, producing training 
materials, equipment used for instruction, fuel, wear and tear on 
vehicles, etc. The concept of opportunity cost is somewhat less 
familiar, but is simply the value of the best alternative that must be 
foregone when an action is taken. In this case, the opportunity cost of 
training is the foregone value of the work that the driver would 
otherwise be performing. The standard value of this cost component is 
the driver's wage.
    FMCSA interviewed the staff members of a number of training schools 
and associations regarding the costs of training. While the price of 
training varies considerably, most private training school respondents 
replied that a cost of $4,000 for a 4-week course was typical. Many 
schools also offer longer courses that are more expensive. To be 
conservative, we use a figure of $25 per hour of training in this 
analysis (calculated as $4,000 divided by 4 weeks divided by 40 hours 
per week). This translates into $1,000 of direct training cost for each 
40-hours of training.
    This is a reasonable estimate of the total hourly cost to train 
drivers, whether the training is taught by the employer or a third 
party. Employer-based training would most likely be less expensive than 
$25 per hour, assuming new physical space would not have to be leased 
to conduct the training. To be conservative, we use the same figure 
whether the training is employer- or third-party-based. Using this 
approach ensures that we do not underestimate the costs of employer-
based training programs.
    We base our estimates on the BLS's May 2005, National Occupational 
Employment and Wage Survey. Since entry-level drivers generally earn at 
the low range of the industry wage standards, we use the BLS estimate 
of the 25th percentile wage for all of our entry-level drivers. We add 
31 percent to cover the cost of fringe benefits. For truck drivers 
(heavy truck and tractor trailer), the hourly wage plus the fringe 
benefit is estimated at $17.00. For school bus drivers, the hourly wage 
plus the fringe benefit is estimated at $11.40. The wage plus the 
fringe benefit for

[[Page 73239]]

transit and intercity bus drivers is estimated at $14.75.
    The total cost of training is the opportunity cost of an hour of 
the driver's time (hourly compensation) plus the $25 per hour of actual 
training costs. The unit cost of training is estimated at $42.00 an 
hour for truck drivers ($17.00 of foregone driver wages plus $25 in 
actual training costs), $36.40 per hour for school bus drivers ($11.40 
of foregone driver wages plus $25 in actual training costs), and $39.75 
per hour for the motor-coach industry ($14.75 of foregone driver wages 
plus $25 in actual training costs).

Total Costs

    Given the estimates of required training hours and wage rates 
discussed above, the total cost to train entry-level drivers subject to 
this proposed rule would be $176.4 million per year, with the large 
truck component comprising about 95 percent ($167.8 million) of the 
total.

                                      Table 2.--Annual Expense Calculations
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                  Heavy truck     School bus    Intercity bus         Total
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Training Hours.........................         3,994,602        9,514           207,285         4,211,402
Hourly Cost of Training......................            $42.00       $36.40            $39.75  ................
                                              ------------------------------------------------------------------
    Total Costs..............................      $167,788,481     $346,294        $8,239,710      $176,374,486
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Using the 7 percent discount rate recommended by the Office of 
Management and Budget, the present value of training costs of the 
proposed rule is calculated as $1.325 billion over 10 years ($1.261 
billion, $2.6 million, and $61.9 million). The table below catalogues 
the total costs for each year and category of vehicle:

                           Table 3.--Total Costs of Final Rule Over a Ten-Year Period
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Heavy truck       School bus       Intercity bus
                           Year                               $167,788,481        $346,294         $8,239,710
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.........................................................      $167,788,481          $346,294        $8,239,710
2.........................................................       156,811,665           323,639         7,700,664
3.........................................................       146,552,958           302,467         7,196,882
4.........................................................       136,965,381           282,679         6,726,058
5.........................................................       128,005,029           264,186         6,286,035
6.........................................................       119,630,868           246,903         5,874,799
7.........................................................       111,804,550           230,750         5,490,467
8.........................................................       104,490,234           215,655         5,131,277
9.........................................................        97,654,424           201,546         4,795,586
10........................................................        91,265,817           188,361         4,481,856
                                                           -----------------------------------------------------
    Total.................................................     1,260,969,407         2,602,481        61,923,334
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Estimated Benefits of the Proposed Rule
    The estimated cost of a large-truck fatal crash is $3,605,000, and 
that of a non-fatal crash, $195,000. The number of fatal crashes 
averaged 4,568 annually over the 5-year period from 2001 to 2005. The 
average for non-fatal crashes was 121,473.
    We attribute 97 of the 4,568 fatal crashes annually to entry-level 
interstate truck drivers who would not be trained were it not for the 
rule. At most, 97 fatal crashes could potentially be reduced by 
enactment of the rule if training was 100% effective in reducing 
crashes. Similarly, 2,574 of the 121,473 non-fatal crashes are 
attributed to entry-level interstate drivers who would not be trained 
were it not for the rule.
    We derive the figure of 97 in the following way. We estimate entry-
level drivers to be 2.9 percent of the total number of drivers, based 
on the BLS estimates of the number of annual openings per year (50,700) 
and the total number of drivers (1,738,000). Proportionally, we 
attribute 2.9 percent of average annual fatal crashes--or 133 of the 
4,568--to entry-level drivers. However, since we are only concerned 
with interstate entry-level drivers, we attribute 75 percent of the 
133--or 100 fatal crashes even--to drivers affected by the proposed 
rule. Further, since 30 percent of entry-level drivers (interstate or 
otherwise) would be trained regardless of the rule, only 70 percent of 
100--or 70 fatal crashes--are attributed to the group that the proposed 
rule can actually affect.
    Seventy drivers are 70 percent (not otherwise trained) of the 75 
percent (interstate) of the 2.9 percent (entry-level) of drivers. 
Entry-level drivers are more likely to be involved in crashes than more 
experienced drivers. Assigning crashes to this group in exact 
proportion to their number undercounts the number of crashes 
attributable to the group. If we assume entry-level drivers are 1.4 
times more likely to crash than other drivers,\20\ then 70 is adjusted 
up by a factor of 1.4 to 97. Ninety-seven of the 4,568 fatal crashes 
are attributed to entry-level interstate truck drivers who would not be 
trained were it not for the rule. Similarly, 2,574 of the 121,473 non-
fatal crashes are attributed to the group.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \20\ Federal Highway Administration, ``Final Regulatory 
Evaluation, Entry-Level Driver Training,'' May 1995. p. D-1. Cites 
``This relationship was given in a GAO report * * * (Promising 
Approach for Predicting Carriers' Safety, April 1991).''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In order for the benefits of crash reduction to equal the costs of 
the rule, crashes by must be reduced by 19.7 percent. That is, 19.1 
fewer fatal crashes and 507.2 fewer non-fatal crashes result in crash-
reduction benefits of $167.8 million. Note that 19.1 fatal crashes and 
507.3 non-fatal crashes are less than one-half of one percent of the 
total crashes that occur annually.
    This 19.7 percent reduction does not have to occur annually. The 
19.1 and 507.2 reductions are in essence the

[[Page 73240]]

number of crashes that would have to be reduced by this ``graduating 
class'' of (40,200) trainees over the length of the effectiveness of 
the training. The trainees could reduce by, for example, 12 and 360 the 
first year, and 7.1 and 147.2 in the second year (if, in fact, benefits 
to training were sustained for 2 years).
    If we assume that the effect of training lasts 2 years and that it 
is half as effective in the second year as the first, then trainees 
would need to reduce by 12.7 and 338.1 (first year) and then 6.4 and 
169.1 (second year). In essence, they would only need to reduce crashes 
by 13.1 percent the first year and 6.5 percent the second.
    If we assume that the effect of training lasts 3 years and that it 
is half as effective in the second year as the first, and half as 
effective in the third year as the second, then trainees would need to 
reduce by 10.9 and 290 (first year), then 5.4 and 145 (second year), 
and then 2.7 and 72 (third year). Entry level drivers would only need 
to reduce crashes by 11.3 percent the first year, 5.6 percent the 
second, and 2.8 the third.
    For school buses, the estimated annual cost to train the 119 entry-
level drivers is $346,000. The cost of a fatal crash is $3,604,000 and 
of a non-fatal crash $195,000. Therefore, either one fewer fatal crash 
every 10 years or one fewer non-fatal crash every 2 years would be 
enough for the benefits of crash reduction to equal the costs.
    Given the annual training cost for the 2,591 entry-level intercity 
bus drivers of $8.2 million and the costs of fatal and non-fatal 
crashes of $3,604,000 and $195,000, 2.3 fewer fatal crashes or 42.2 
fewer non-fatal crashes (or some combination of the two) would produce 
benefits from crash reduction that are equal to the costs.
Further Discussion of the Proposed Rule
    This proposed rule touches on several additional issues related to 
the analysis of costs and benefits and the entities affected. These 
topics include the supply of labor (i.e., drivers), the effectiveness 
of training, and the benefits of reduced personnel turnover due to 
training. For a discussion of these topics, please refer to the FMCSA 
document ``Regulatory Evaluation, Regulatory Flexibility Analysis, and 
Regulatory Accountability and Reform Analysis,'' February, 2007, 
contained in the docket identified at the beginning of this notice.

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

Introduction
    The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 requires Federal agencies to 
``* * * endeavor, consistent with the objectives of the rule and of 
applicable statutes, to fit regulatory and informational requirements 
to the scale of the businesses, organizations, and governmental 
jurisdictions subject to regulation.'' Accordingly, DOT policy requires 
an analysis of the impact of all regulations and proposed rules on 
small entities. The DOT mandates that agencies shall strive to lessen 
any adverse effects on these businesses. This Initial Regulatory 
Flexibility Analysis covers the following topics:
    (1) The reason the Agency is considering this action.
    (2) A statement of the objectives of and legal basis for this 
proposed rule.
    (3) A description of the small entities to which the proposed rule 
will apply, including an estimate of their number.
    (4) A description of the projected reporting, recordkeeping, and 
other compliance requirements of the proposed rule, including an 
estimate of the classes of small entities that will be subject to the 
requirement and the types of professional skills necessary for 
preparation of the report or record.
    (5) An identification, to the extent practicable, of all relevant 
Federal rules that may duplicate, overlap, or conflict with the 
proposed rule.
Reason the Action Is Being Considered
    This document analyzes the costs and benefits of this NPRM, as 
required under Executive Order 12866 and U.S. Department of 
Transportation (DOT) Order 2100.5. The NPRM proposes to revise the 
standards for mandatory training for entry-level drivers of interstate 
CMVs. Individuals applying for new or upgraded CDLs would be required 
to successfully complete driver training that includes both classroom 
and behind-the-wheel hours. State driver-licensing agencies would only 
issue a CDL to a trained applicant. The proposed actions would reduce 
crashes by providing entry-level drivers with safety training and 
experience.
Objective and Legal Basis for This Action
    A study required by Section 4007 of the Intermodal Surface 
Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA) found that the training 
of entry-level drivers in the heavy truck, motor-coach, and school bus 
industries was not adequate. Therefore, the objective of this NPRM is 
to enhance the safety of CMV operations on our Nation's highways.\21\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \21\ An ancillary benefit to training may come in the form of 
fuel savings. According to an OECD report, ``successful fuel economy 
driver training programmes have led directly to improved economy and 
increased safety.'' Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and 
Development, ``Training Truck Drivers,'' Road Transport Research, 
1996.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Number of Small Entities to Which the Action Will Apply
    This rulemaking would not directly affect small entities. The rule 
would primarily impact only the potential truck and bus drivers who are 
required to complete training prior to obtaining a CDL. Motor carriers 
are not required to take any action under the proposed rule, and, in 
fact, are relieved from burdens such as providing at least 10 hours of 
training for each entry-level driver and maintaining records of that 
training.
Reporting, Recordkeeping, and Other Compliance Requirements of the 
Proposed Rule
    This proposed rule does not place any reporting, recordkeeping, or 
other compliance requirements on small entities; i.e., motor carriers.
Duplicative, Overlapping, or Conflicting Federal Rules
    The FMCSA is not aware of any other rules which duplicate, overlap, 
or conflict with the proposed action.
Summary
    The FMCSA has considered the effects of this proposed regulatory 
action on small entities and determined that this proposed rule would 
not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small 
entities, as defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration's Office 
of Size Standards. This proposed rule would affect only potential truck 
drivers who are required to obtain training. Accordingly, FMCSA has 
considered the economic impacts of the requirements on small entities 
and determines preliminarily that this proposed rule would not have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.

C. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

    As defined by the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 
1532, et seq.), FMCSA has determined that this proposed rule does not 
contain an unfunded Federal mandate resulting in the expenditures of 
$120.7 million or more (adjusted for inflation) in any one year by 
State, local, and tribal governments, in the aggregate, or by the 
private sector.

D. Paperwork Reduction Act

    Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 
3507(d)), Federal agencies must obtain approval

[[Page 73241]]

from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for each collection of 
information they conduct, sponsor, or require through regulations. The 
FMCSA has determined this proposed rule would require revisions to an 
existing information collection requirement subject to approval by OMB. 
The currently approved information collection affected by this NPRM is 
titled ``Training Certification for Entry-Level Commercial Motor 
Vehicle Operators,'' OMB Control Number 2126-0028, approved at 10,808 
burden hours through September 30, 2007. However, this continues in 
effect until approval of a pending revision that is currently being 
review by OMB.
    The implementation of this rule would take place over a period of 3 
years immediately following its effective date. The program for the 
training and certification of entry-level drivers would not be 
operational before the end of this 3-year phase-in period. Thus, for 
the first 3 years, the paperwork burden of this rule would be minor. 
The start-up activities of training institutions and States would be 
the primary activities. Training institutions would incur a burden as 
they revise their training processes, and State driver-licensing 
agencies (SDLAs) would incur a burden as they modify their systems to 
record information to be collected under this proposed rule.
    The sole document required by this rule would be the Driver 
Training Certificate (DTC). Under the proposed rule, an individual 
would be required to present the DTC to the SDLA in order to obtain a 
CDL. Existing training institutions may need to amend their ``diploma'' 
so that it contains all the information required for a DTC. The DTC 
must contain the information specified by the rule. SDLAs would also 
experience a burden as they absorb the mandates of this rule into their 
current CDL licensing systems and processes. For example, State systems 
would have to add the capacity to retain a copy of the Driver Training 
Certificate.
    We anticipate that this rule, following 3 years of implementation, 
would impose additional information collection burdens on driver 
training institutions and SDLAs. The FMCSA will publish a notice within 
3 years after the effective date of this proposed rule. This notice 
will contain an estimate of the burden for the following 3 years, and 
will seek public comment on it.
    Need for and use of the information to be collected: The 
information collected under the requirements of this proposed rule 
would enable FMCSA to (1) Improve the safe driving of entry-level CDL 
drivers, (2) improve the ability of motor carriers to hire safe 
operators of CMVs, and (3) enable future research on the impact of 
driver training on CMV crash reduction.
    Respondents: The annual number of drivers providing training 
certificates under the current rule, which would remain in effect 
during the 3-year implementation period, is 45,611. The number of 
training institutions (public and private) that would provide training 
under the terms of this proposed rule is uncertain, but FMCSA estimates 
it to be between 200 and 500. The number of State licensing agencies is 
51. The total for these three groups of potential respondents will vary 
from 45,862 to 46,162 during the initial 3-year implementation period.
    Frequency: Information would not be collected with any specific 
frequency during the 3-year life of the information collection. The 
initial burdens on training institutions and SDLAs will be limited to 
startup activities.
    Annual Burden Estimate: This proposal would result in an annual 
recordkeeping and reporting burden estimated to be 137,192 hours, 
calculated as follows:
    Entry-level CDL drivers under the currently approved information 
collection incur a burden of 10,808 hours, and this burden would remain 
in effect until OMB approval of a pending revision of the information 
collection. During the 3-year phase-in period, the CDL-training 
institutions would incur an estimated burden of 125,000 hours to revise 
their processes to conform to the requirements of this rule. During the 
same period, State driver-licensing agencies would incur a burden of 
4,590 hours to modify their systems. The total proposed annual burden 
is 137,192 hours (7,602 + 125,000 + 4,590).
    Following the 3-year implementation period, calculation of the PRA 
burden would be revised because the rule would be fully operational.
    FMCSA has submitted this NPRM and a supporting statement to OMB, 
estimating the paperwork burdens of this proposal. The Agency is 
soliciting comments to--
    (1) Evaluate whether the proposed information requirement is 
necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Agency, 
including whether the information will have practical utility,
    (2) Evaluate the accuracy of the Agency's estimate of the burden,
    (3) Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to 
be collected, and
    (4) Minimize the burden of the collection of information on those 
who are to respond, including the use of appropriate automated, 
electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or 
other forms of information technology. You may submit comments on the 
PRA aspects of this proposed rule directly to OMB. The deadline for 
such submissions is February 25, 2008. You must mail or hand deliver 
your comments to: Attention: Desk Officer for the Department of 
Transportation, Docket Library, Office of Information and Regulatory 
Affairs, Office of Management and Budget, Room 10102, 725 17th Street, 
NW., Washington, DC 20503.

E. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

    FMCSA analyzed this proposed rule for the purpose of the NEPA of 
1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and conducted an assessment under the 
procedures in FMCSA Order 5610.1, published March 1, 2004 in the 
Federal Register (69 FR 9680). Accordingly, under Appendix 2, paragraph 
6(s) of FMCSA Order 5610.1, this action is categorically excluded (CE) 
from further environmental documentation. This CE relates to 
establishing regulations and actions taken pursuant to these 
regulations concerning the requirements for a driver to have a 
commercial motor vehicle driver's license. In addition, the Agency 
believes that the action includes no extraordinary circumstances that 
would have any effect on the quality of the environment. Thus, the 
action does not require an environmental assessment or an environmental 
impact statement. We have also analyzed the proposal under the Clean 
Air Act, as amended (CAA) section 176(c), (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.) and 
implementing regulations promulgated by the Environmental Protection 
Agency. It would not result in any emissions increase nor would it have 
any potential to result in emissions that are above the general 
conformity rule's de minimis emission threshold levels. Moreover, it is 
reasonably foreseeable that the rule would not increase total CMV 
mileage, change the routing of CMVs, how CMVs operate, or the CMV 
fleet-mix of motor carriers. This action merely establishes training 
requirements for drivers seeking to hold a commercial driver's license.

F. Privacy Impact Assessment

    Section 522 of the FY 2005 Omnibus Appropriations Act, enacted 
December 8, 2004, (Note to 5 U.S.C. 552a) requires the Agency to 
conduct a privacy impact assessment (PIA) of a regulation that will 
affect the privacy of individuals. This rulemaking would require new 
drivers pursuing a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) to obtain training 
that

[[Page 73242]]

follows a prescribed curriculum and is provided by an accredited 
training provider. The driver would then be responsible for providing a 
copy of a certificate that reflects successful completion of the 
training to the State Driver Licensing Agency (SDLA), upon application 
for a CDL. The SDLA would document receipt of this certificate on the 
driver's record in the Commercial Driver License Information System 
(CDLIS) and on the Motor Vehicle Record (MVR). The information would be 
made available to authorized personnel via CDLIS electronic inquiries 
and on the MVR obtained by employers and drivers. The information will 
be held to the same level of security as CDLIS.
    Because the training institution would create the training 
certificate, and the States would examine and maintain the certificate 
and other records associated with the individual's CDL, FMCSA has 
determined this proposed rule would not result in a new or revised 
Privacy Act System of Records for FMCSA.

G. Federalism

    FMCSA has analyzed this proposed rule in accordance with the 
principles and criteria of Executive Order 13132, ``Federalism,'' and 
has determined that it does not have federalism implications.
    The Federalism Order applies to ``policies that have federalism 
implications,'' which it defines as regulations and other actions that 
have ``substantial direct effects on the States, on the relationship 
between the national government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.'' 
Sec. 1(a). The key concept here is ``substantial direct effects on the 
States.'' Sec. 3(b) of the Federalism Order provides that ``[n]ational 
action limiting the policymaking discretion of the States shall be 
taken only where there is constitutional and statutory authority for 
the action and the national activity is appropriate in light of the 
presence of a problem of national significance.''
    This proposed rule would not preempt any State or local law or 
regulation. It would establish training standards applicable to entry-
level commercial motor vehicle drivers. As part of the commercial 
driver's license (CDL) program, State driver licensing agencies (SDLAs) 
would have to require entry-level CDL applicants to present a copy of a 
certificate from a training institution accredited by an agency 
approved by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher 
Education Accreditation. SDLAs would be required to reject the CDL 
application of an entry-level driver who was unable to present evidence 
of having received the training required by this NPRM.
    The FMCSA's CDL program does not have preemptive effect. It is a 
voluntary program; States may withdraw at any time, although doing so 
would result in the loss of certain Federal-aid highway funds pursuant 
to 49 U.S.C. 31314. FMCSA recognizes that, as a practical matter, this 
rule would have an impact on State CDL programs. Accordingly, the 
Agency advised the National Governors' Association (NGA) of these 
proposed regulatory changes by letter dated January 12, 2007, and 
offered NGA officials an opportunity to meet and discuss issues of 
concern to the States. State and local governments will also be able to 
raise Federalism issues during the comment period for this NPRM.
    The CDL program was authorized by the Commercial Motor Vehicle 
Safety Act of 1986 (49 U.S.C. chapter 313). States have been issuing 
CDLs in accordance with Federal standards for well over a decade. 
Because this rule would make only small, incremental changes to the 
requirements already imposed on participating States, FMCSA has 
determined that it would not have substantial direct effects on the 
States, on the relationship between the Federal and State governments, 
or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various 
levels of government.

H. Civil Justice Reform

    This proposed action would meet applicable standards in sections 
3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to 
minimize litigation, eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden.

I. Protection of Children

    FMCSA has analyzed this proposed action under Executive Order 
13045, Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and 
Safety Risks. We have determined preliminarily that this rulemaking 
would not concern an environmental risk to health or safety that may 
disproportionately affect children.

J. Taking of Private Property

    This proposed rulemaking would not effect a taking of private 
property or otherwise have taking implications under Executive Order 
12630, Governmental Actions and Interference with Constitutionally 
Protected Property Rights.

K. Energy Effects

    We have analyzed this proposed action under Executive Order 13211, 
Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, 
Distribution or Use. We have determined preliminarily that it would not 
be a ``significant energy action'' under that Executive Order because 
it would not be economically significant and would not be likely to 
have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use 
of energy.

List of Subjects

49 CFR Part 380

    Driver training, Instructor requirements.

49 CFR Part 383

    Administrative practice and procedure, Highway safety, and Motor 
carriers.

49 CFR Part 384

    Administrative practice and procedure, Highway safety, and Motor 
carriers.

    In consideration of the foregoing, FMCSA proposes to amend parts 
380, 383, and 384 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR 
parts 380, 383, and 384) as follows:

PART 380--SPECIAL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

    1. The authority citation for part 380 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 31133, 31136, 31307, and 31502; sec. 
4007(a) and (b) of Pub. L. 102-240 (105 Stat. 2151-2152); and 49 CFR 
1.73.


Sec. Sec.  380.107, 380.109, 380.201, 380.203, and 380.205  [Amended]

    2. Amend Sec. Sec.  380.107(a), 380.109(a)(1), (5), (6), and (7), 
380.201(a) introductory text and (b), 380.203(b), and 380.205(b) by 
removing the words ``the appendix to this part'' and adding the words 
``appendix A of this part'' in their place.

Subpart D--LCV Driver-Training Certification

    3. Revise the heading of subpart D to read as set forth above.

Subpart E--Entry-Level Training Requirements Before [date 3 years 
after effective date of final rule]

    4. Revise the heading of subpart E to read as set forth above.
    5. Add Sec.  380.500 to read as follows:


Sec.  380.500  Compliance date for training requirements for entry-
level trainees.

    Compliance with the provisions of this subpart is not required on 
and after

[[Page 73243]]

[date 3 years after effective date of final rule].
    6. Amend Sec.  380.502 by revising paragraph (b) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  380.502  Definitions.

* * * * *
    (b) As used in this subpart:
    Entry-level trainee is a driver with less than one year of 
experience operating a CMV with a CDL in interstate commerce.
    Entry-level training is training the CDL driver receives in driver 
qualification requirements, hours of service of drivers, driver 
wellness, and whistle blower protection as appropriate to the entry-
level trainee's current position in addition to passing the CDL test.
    7. Amend Sec.  380.503 by revising the section heading and 
introductory text to read as follows:


Sec.  380.503  Entry-level training requirements.

    Entry-level training must include instruction addressing the 
following four areas:
* * * * *
    8. Amend Sec.  380.501 by removing the words ``entry-level 
drivers'' and adding the words ``entry-level trainees'' in their place.
    9. Amend Sec. Sec.  380.505, 380.507, 380.509(a), and 380.513 
introductory text by removing the words removing the words ``entry-
level driver'' each time they appear, and adding the words ``entry-
level trainee'' in their place.
    10. Amend Sec.  380.513(e) by removing the words ``entry-level 
driver training'' and adding the words ``entry-level training'' in 
their place.
    11. Add a new subpart F to read as follows:
Subpart F--Entry-Level Driver Training and Driver-Instructor 
Requirements On and After [Date 3 Years After Effective Date of Final 
Rule]
380.600 Compliance date for training requirements for entry-level 
drivers.
380.601 Purpose and scope.
380.603 Applicability.
380.605 Definitions.
380.607 Requirement to complete entry-level driver training.
380.609 Entry-level driver-instructor requirements.
380.611 Driver testing.

Subpart F--Entry-Level Driver-Training and Driver-Instructor 
Requirements On and After [Date 3 Years After Effective Date of 
Final Rule]


Sec.  380.600  Compliance date for training requirements for entry-
level drivers.

    Compliance with the provisions of this subpart is required on and 
after [date 3 years after effective date of final rule].


Sec.  380.601  Purpose and scope.

    (a) Purpose. The purpose of this subpart is to establish a minimum 
training program for entry-level drivers, as defined in Sec.  380.605.
    (b) Scope. This subpart establishes:
    (1) Minimum training requirements for entry-level drivers who 
intend to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate 
commerce;
    (2) Minimum standards for training institutions that offer entry-
level driver training that meets the requirements of this subpart;
    (3) Minimum qualification requirements for CMV driver-instructors; 
and
    (4) A CMV driver-training program that includes both the training 
topics set forth in appendix B to this part and behind-the-wheel 
instruction that is designed to provide an opportunity to develop the 
skills outlined under the Proficiency Development units of the training 
program.


Sec.  380.603  Applicability.

    (a) The rules in this subpart apply to all entry-level drivers who 
intend to drive in interstate commerce and are subject to the 
commercial driver's license (CDL) requirements of part 383 of this 
subchapter, except drivers applying for a restricted CDL under Sec.  
383.3(e) through (g) of this subchapter.
    (b) A driver who holds a valid CDL issued before [date 3 years 
after effective date of final rule] is not required to comply with this 
subpart except as otherwise specifically provided.
    (c) A driver whose CDL has been revoked by the State of issuance 
for highway safety-related reasons, or whose CDL expired more than 4 
years prior to the date of reapplication for a CDL, must comply with 
the requirements of this subpart when reapplying for a CDL.


Sec.  380.605  Definitions.

    (a) The definitions in part 383 of this subchapter apply to this 
subpart, except where otherwise specifically stated.
    (b) As used in this subpart:
    Behind-the-wheel (BTW) training means training provided by a 
qualified driver-instructor when the student has actual control of the 
power unit during a driving lesson conducted on public or private 
property. BTW training does not include time spent riding in a CMV or 
observing operation of a CMV when the student is not in control of the 
vehicle.
    Classroom instruction means training provided by a qualified 
driver-instructor through lectures, demonstrations, audio-visual 
presentations, computer-based instruction, driving simulation devices, 
or similar means. Instruction occurring outside a classroom is included 
if it does not involve actual operation of a CMV and its components by 
the student.
    Classroom instructor means a qualified driver-instructor who 
provides knowledge instruction that does not involve the actual 
operation of a CMV or its components.
    Entry-level driver means a person who applies for a CDL that would 
allow him/her to operate a CMV in interstate commerce.
    Qualified driver-instructor means an instructor meeting the 
requirements contained in Sec.  380.609. There are two types of 
qualified driver-instructors:
    (1) Classroom instructors, and
    (2) Skills instructors.
    Skills instructor means a qualified driver-instructor who provides 
behind-the-wheel instruction involving the actual operation of a CMV or 
its components.
    Training institution means any school, including a school operated 
by a motor carrier, that is accredited by an agency recognized by the 
U.S. Department of Education (ED) or by the Council for Higher 
Education Accreditation (CHEA), and any school providing a program of 
truck-driver training specifically accredited by an agency recognized 
by ED or CHEA.


Sec.  380.607  Requirement to complete entry-level driver training.

    (a) A person who wishes to obtain a commercial driver's license 
(CDL) that would allow him/her to operate a commercial motor vehicle 
(CMV) in interstate commerce must first take and successfully complete 
a driver-training program that meets the requirements of this subpart 
and that is provided by a training institution, as defined in Sec.  
380.605. The specific types of knowledge and skills instruction that a 
training program must include are outlined in appendix B to this part. 
A person who intends to operate a CMV for which a Class A CDL is 
required must complete the training outlined in Part I of appendix B to 
this part, and a driver who intends to operate a CMV for which a Class 
B or C CDL is required must complete the training outlined in Part II 
of appendix B to this part.
    (b) A training institution must provide a Driver Training 
Certificate to the driver-student who successfully completes entry-
level driver training. The certificate must contain the following items 
of information:
    (1) Date of issuance of the certificate.
    (2) Name of training institution.

[[Page 73244]]

    (3) Mailing address of training institution.
    (4) Name of agency that accredited the training institution.
    (5) Name of driver.
    (6) A statement that the driver completed training under Part I of 
appendix B to this part, for Class A training, or under Part II of 
Appendix B to this part, for Class B and C training.
    (7) A statement that the driver has successfully completed training 
as required by this subpart, substantially in accordance with the 
following sentence:
    ``I certify that [name of driver] has successfully completed the 
training requirements set forth in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety 
Regulations for entry-level drivers in accordance with 49 CFR part 380, 
subpart F. I declare (or certify, verify, or state) under penalty of 
perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed on (date). 
(Signature) (printed name of the certifying official).''
    (c) An applicant for a CDL who expects to operate in interstate 
commerce must present the original Driver Training Certificate to his/
her State driver's license agency as part of the CDL application 
process.


Sec.  380.609  Entry-level driver-instructor requirements.

    There are two types of CMV driver-instructors, classroom 
instructors and skills instructors. To be a qualified driver-
instructor, a person must meet the conditions under paragraph (a) or 
(b) of this section.
    (a) Classroom instructor. To qualify as a CMV classroom instructor, 
a person must:
    (1) Have audited or instructed that portion of the driver-training 
course described in Appendix B to this part that he/she intends to 
instruct, or, until [date 5 years after the effective date of the final 
rule], an equivalent program;
    (2) Be employed by a training institution; and
    (3) Meet all State requirements for a vocational instructor.
    (b) Skills instructor. To qualify as a CMV skills instructor, a 
person must:
    (1) Have instructed or successfully completed that portion of the 
driver-training program described in Appendix B to this part that he/
she intends to instruct, or, until [date 5 years after the effective 
date of the final rule], an equivalent program. The driver-training 
program he/she has completed or instructed must be for the operation of 
CMVs representative of the class and type of CMV for which training is 
to be provided;
    (2) Be employed by a training institution;
    (3) Meet all State requirements for a vocational instructor;
    (4) Possess a valid CDL of the appropriate (or higher) class and 
with all endorsements necessary to operate the CMVs for which training 
is to be provided; and
    (5) Have at least 2 years CMV driving experience in a vehicle 
representative of the class and type of CMV for which training is to be 
provided.


Sec.  380.611  Driver testing.

    (a) Testing methods. To successfully complete the CMV driver 
training program set forth in this subpart, an entry-level driver-
student must pass knowledge and skills tests in accordance with the 
following requirements. Any qualified driver-instructor may administer 
the written knowledge test. The skills tests, based on actual operation 
of a CMV, must be administered by a qualified CMV skills instructor.
    (1) All tests must be constructed to determine if the driver-
student possesses the required knowledge and skills set forth in 
appendix B of this part.
    (2) Instructors may develop their own tests for the specific type 
of CMV training program being taught, but those tests must be at least 
as stringent as the requirements set forth in paragraph (b) of this 
section.
    (3) Qualified driver-instructors must establish specific methods 
for scoring the knowledge and skills tests.
    (4) Passing scores must meet the requirements of paragraph (b) of 
this section.
    (5) Each knowledge test must address the training provided during 
both classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction, and include at least 
one question from each of the units listed in the relevant part of 
appendix B of this part.
    (6) Each skills test must include all the maneuvers and operations 
practiced during the proficiency development units of instruction 
described in the relevant part of appendix B of this part.
    (b) Proficiency determinations. The driver-student must meet the 
following conditions to be certified as having successfully completed 
training under this subpart:
    (1) Answer correctly at least 80 percent of the questions on each 
knowledge test; and
    (2) Demonstrate that he/she can successfully perform all of the 
skills addressed in paragraph (a)(6) of this section.
    (c) Automatic test failure. Failure to obey traffic laws or 
involvement in a preventable crash during the skills portion of the 
test will result in automatic failure. Automatic test failure 
determinations are made at the sole discretion of the qualified CMV 
driver-instructor.

Appendix to Part 380 [Amended]

    12. The appendix to part 380 is redesignated as appendix A to part 
380.
    13. Add appendix B to part 380 to read as follows:

Appendix B to Part 380--Entry-Level Driver Training Curriculum

Part I. Entry-Level Driver Training; Required Minimum Program of 
Instruction for Class A CDL Applicants

Section 1--Basic Operation
    Unit 1.1--Orientation
    Unit 1.2--Control systems
    Unit 1.3--Vehicle inspection
    Unit 1.4--Basic control
    Unit 1.5--Shifting
    Unit 1.6--Backing
    Unit 1.7--Coupling and uncoupling
    Unit 1.8--Proficiency development
Section 2 --Safe Operating Practices
    Unit 2.1--Visual search
    Unit 2.2--Communication
    Unit 2.3--Speed management
    Unit 2.4--Space management
    Unit 2.5--Night operations
    Unit 2.6--Extreme driving conditions
    Unit 2.7--Proficiency development
Section 3--Advanced Operating Procedures
    Unit 3.1--Hazard perception
    Unit 3.2--Emergency maneuvers
    Unit 3.3--Skid control and recovery
    Unit 3.4--Special situations
Section 4--Vehicle Maintenance
    Unit 4.1--Vehicle systems
    Unit 4.2--Preventative maintenance and servicing
    Unit 4.3--Diagnosing malfunctions
Section 5--Non--Driving Activities
    Unit 5.1--Handling cargo
    Unit 5.2--Hours of service requirements
    Unit 5.3--Crash procedures
    Unit 5.4--Trip planning
    Unit 5.5--Miscellaneous topics

    For Class A applicants, the mandatory minimum hours of behind-the-
wheel training must be conducted in a traditional tractor-trailer or 
truck-trailer combination vehicle for which a Class A CDL would be 
required.
    In this appendix, the term ``tractor trailer'' includes a truck-
trailer combination vehicle for which a Class A CDL would be required.

Section 1--Basic Operation

[MINIMUM HOURS--Classroom--20; BTW--24; Total Hours--44]

    The units in this section must cover the interaction between the 
driver and the CMV. The student will receive instruction in the 
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) and will be 
introduced to the basic CMV instruments and controls. The student 
will also receive basic instruction in the Hazardous Materials 
regulations issued by

[[Page 73245]]

the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). 
The units in this section must also teach entry-level CDL driver-
trainees how to properly perform vehicle inspections, control the 
motion of CMVs under various road and traffic conditions, shifting 
and backing techniques, and how to properly couple and uncouple 
tractor-trailers.
    During the off-street driving exercises required by this 
section, entry-level CDL driver-trainees must first familiarize 
themselves with the basic operating characteristics of a CMV. Then, 
students must be able to perform the skills in each unit to a level 
of proficiency required to permit safe transition to on-street 
driving.
    Unit 1.1--Orientation. This unit must introduce students to the 
tractor-trailer driver-training curriculum and the components of a 
tractor-trailer. The student will learn the safety fundamentals, 
essential regulatory requirements (i.e., overview of FMCSRs/HM 
regulations), and driver responsibilities not directly related to 
driving. This unit must also include an overview of the 
applicability of State and local laws relating to the safe operation 
of the CMV.
    Unit 1.2--Control systems. This unit must introduce students to 
vehicle instruments and controls. The student will learn to read 
gauges and instruments correctly and learn proper use of vehicle 
safety components, including safety belts and mirrors. The student 
will also learn to identify, locate, and explain the function of 
each of the primary and secondary controls including those required 
for steering, accelerating, shifting, braking, and parking.
    Unit 1.3--Vehicle inspection. This unit must stress to students 
the importance of vehicle inspections and help them develop the 
skills necessary for conducting pre-trip, en-route, and post-trip 
inspections.
    Unit 1.4--Basic control. This unit must introduce basic 
vehicular control and handling as it applies to tractor-trailers. 
This must include instruction addressing basic tractor-trailer 
controls in areas such as executing sharp left and right turns, 
centering the vehicle, and maneuvering in restricted areas.
    Unit 1.5--Shifting. This unit must introduce shifting patterns 
and procedures to the students so that they can proficiently perform 
basic shifting maneuvers. This must include training each student to 
execute up and down shifting techniques on multi--speed dual range 
transmissions.
    Unit 1.6--Backing. This unit must prepare students to back-up 
the tractor-trailer safely.
    Unit 1.7--Coupling and uncoupling. This unit must provide 
instruction for the student to develop the skills necessary to 
conduct the procedures for safe coupling and uncoupling of tractor-
trailer units.
    Unit 1.8--Proficiency development. The purpose of this unit is 
to enable entry-level CDL driver-trainees to gain proficiency and 
demonstrate the skills taught in Units 1.1 through 1.7. The 
activities of this unit must consist of driving exercises that 
provide practice for the development of basic control skills and 
mastery of basic maneuvers. Nearly all activity in this unit will 
take place on the driving range or on streets or roads that have 
low-density traffic conditions.

Section 2--Safe Operating Practices

[MINIMUM HOURS--Classroom--8; BTW--17; Total Hours--25]

    The units in this section teach the practices required for safe 
operation of the tractor-trailer on the highway. Entry-level CDL 
driver-trainees must be taught how to apply their basic operating 
skills in a way that ensures their safety and that of other road 
users under various road, weather, and traffic conditions.
    Unit 2.1--Visual search. The purpose of this unit is to enable 
students to visually search the road for potential hazards and 
critical objects.
    Unit 2.2--Communication. The purpose of this unit is to enable 
students to communicate their intentions to other road users (e.g., 
proper signaling). Students will learn techniques for different 
types of communication on the road.
    Unit 2.3--Speed management. The purpose of this unit is to 
enable students to manage speed effectively in response to various 
road, weather, and traffic conditions. Emphasis must be placed upon 
maintaining safe vehicular speed.
    Unit 2.4--Space management. The purpose of this unit is to 
enable students to manage the space required for safe vehicle 
operation. Emphasis must be placed upon maintaining appropriate 
space surrounding the vehicle under various traffic and road 
conditions.
    Unit 2.5--Night operations. Students will learn how to operate 
safely at night. Emphasis must be placed upon the factors affecting 
operation of CMVs at night. Night driving presents specific factors 
that require special attention on the part of the driver. Changes in 
vehicle safety inspection, vision, communications, speed, and space 
management are needed to deal with the special problems night 
driving presents.
    Unit 2.6--Extreme driving conditions. This unit must provide 
instruction addressing the driving of CMVs under extreme driving 
conditions. Emphasis must be placed upon the factors affecting the 
operation of CMVs in cold, hot, and inclement weather and on steep 
grades and sharp curves. Changes in basic driving habits are needed 
to deal with the specific problems presented by these extreme 
driving conditions. Students will also learn proper tire chaining 
procedures in this unit.
    Unit 2.7--Proficiency development. This unit must provide entry-
level CDL driver-trainees an opportunity to refine, within the on-
street traffic environment, their vehicle handling skills learned in 
Units 1.4, 1.8, and the safe operating practices learned in Units 
2.1 through 2.6. Driver-student performance progress must be closely 
monitored to determine when the level of proficiency required for 
carrying out the basic traffic maneuvers of stopping, turning, 
merging, straight driving, curves, lane changing, passing, driving 
on hills, driving through traffic restrictions, driving through 
intersections, and parking has been attained. Driver-students must 
also be assessed for compliance with all traffic laws.
    Nearly all activity in this unit will take place on public 
roadways in a full range of traffic environments applicable to this 
vehicle configuration. To the extent possible, this must include 
urban and rural uncontrolled roadways, expressways, or freeways, 
under light, moderate, and heavy traffic conditions.

Section 3--Advanced Operating Procedures

[MINIMUM HOURS--Classroom--15; BTW--3; Total Hours--18]

    The units in this section must introduce higher level skills 
that can be acquired only after the more fundamental skills and 
knowledge taught in sections one and two have been mastered. 
Qualified driver-instructors must teach the perceptual skills 
necessary to recognize potential hazards, and must demonstrate the 
procedures needed to handle a CMV when faced with a hazard.
    Unit 3.1--Hazard perception. The purpose of this unit is to 
enable students to recognize potential dangers in the driving 
environment and to take appropriate defensive action(s) before the 
dangers develop into emergency situations. The unit must provide 
instruction addressing the principles of recognizing hazards in 
sufficient time to reduce the severity of the hazard and neutralize 
possible emergency situations. Students must identify road 
conditions and other road users that are a potential threat to the 
safety of the tractor-trailer and suggest appropriate adjustments. 
Emphasis must be placed upon hazard recognition, visual search, and 
response to possible emergency-producing situations encountered by 
CMV drivers in various traffic situations. Included in this unit 
should be a discussion of driver distraction issues (e.g., in-cab 
technology).
    Unit 3.2--Emergency maneuvers. The purpose of this unit is to 
enable students to carry out appropriate responses when faced with 
CMV emergencies. These must include evasive steering, emergency 
braking, off-road recovery, brake failures, tire blowouts, 
hydroplaning, skidding, jackknifing, and the rollover phenomenon. 
The discussion must include a review of unsafe acts and the role 
they play in producing hazardous situations.
    Unit 3.3--Skid control and recovery. The purpose of this unit is 
to teach the causes of skidding and jackknifing and techniques for 
avoiding and recovering from skids and jackknifes. The student must 
be able to maintain directional control and bring the CMV to a stop 
in the shortest possible distance while operating over a slippery 
surface.
    Unit 3.4--Special situations. Students will learn to recognize 
potential dangers and appropriate safety procedures to utilize at 
railroad (RR) grade crossings, construction/work zones, and low 
clearance areas (e.g., CMV height restrictions).

Section 4--Vehicle Maintenance

[MINIMUM HOURS--Classroom--7; BTW--0; Total Hours--7]

    This section is intended to provide entry-level CDL driver-
trainees with sufficient knowledge of the tractor-trailer and its 
systems and subsystems to ensure that they understand and respect 
their role in vehicle

[[Page 73246]]

inspection, operation, and maintenance and the impact of those 
factors upon highway safety and operational efficiency.
    Unit 4.1--Vehicle systems. The purpose of this unit is to teach 
students to identify major tractor/trailer systems. The goal is to 
explain their function, and how to check all key vehicle systems, 
e.g., engine, engine exhaust auxiliary systems, brakes, drive train, 
coupling systems, and suspension. The student will be provided with 
a detailed description of each system, its importance to safe and 
efficient operation, and what is needed to keep the system in good 
operating condition.
    Unit 4.2--Preventative maintenance and servicing. The purpose of 
this unit is to introduce students to the basic servicing and 
checking procedures for various engine and vehicle components and to 
help develop their ability to perform preventative maintenance and 
simple emergency repairs.
    Unit 4.3--Diagnosing malfunctions. The purpose of this unit is 
to enable the students to diagnose vehicle malfunctions and to 
perform emergency maintenance procedures correctly.

Section 5--Non-Driving Activities

[MINIMUM HOURS--Classroom--26; BTW--0; Total Hours 26]

    The units in this section are designed to prepare entry-level 
CDL driver-trainees to handle those responsibilities of a tractor-
trailer driver that do not involve operating the CMV. The units in 
this section must ensure these activities are performed in a manner 
that ensures the safety of the driver, vehicle, cargo, and other 
road users.
    Unit 5.1--Handling cargo. The purpose of this unit is to enable 
students to understand the basic theory of cargo weight 
distribution, cargo securement on the vehicle, cargo covering, and 
techniques for safe and efficient loading/unloading in the classroom 
followed by practical demonstration and practice. Basic information 
regarding the proper handling and documentation of hazardous 
materials cargo will also be covered in this unit.
    Unit 5.2--Hours of service requirements. The purpose of this 
unit is to enable students to understand the basic concepts and 
requirements of the FMCSRs--Part 395, ``Hours of Service of 
Drivers''--and to develop the ability to complete a Driver's Daily 
Log and logbook recap. The issues of driver fatigue and staying 
alert will also be covered in this unit.
    Unit 5.3--Crash procedures. The purpose of this unit is to teach 
students how to follow safe and legal procedures at a crash scene.
    Unit 5.4--Trip planning. This unit must address the importance 
of and requirements for planning routes and trips. This instruction 
must address the importance of planning the safest route, including 
planning for rest stops, heavy traffic areas, rail-highway grade-
crossing safe clearance, etc. Classroom discussion must include 
information on the importance of and requirements for planning 
trips, Federal and State requirements on the need for permits, and 
vehicle size and weight limitations.
    Unit 5.5--Miscellaneous topics. In this unit, students will 
learn the Federal rules on medical certification, medical 
examination procedures, general qualifications, responsibilities, 
and disqualifications based on various offenses, orders, and loss of 
driving privileges (49 CFR part 391, subparts B and E).
    The student will learn about driver wellness. Basic health 
maintenance including diet and exercise and the importance of 
avoiding excessive use of alcohol must be covered in this unit.
    The right of an employee to question the safety practices of an 
employer without incurring the risk of losing a job or being subject 
to reprisals simply for stating a safety concern is included in this 
unit. The student will become familiar with the whistleblower 
protection regulations in 29 CFR Part 1978.

Part II. Entry-Level Driver Training; Required Minimum Program of 
Instruction for Class B and C CDL Applicants

Section 1--Basic Operation
    Unit 1.1--Orientation
    Unit 1.2--Control systems
    Unit 1.3--Vehicle inspection
    Unit 1.4--Basic control
    Unit 1.5--Backing
    Unit 1.6--Proficiency development
Section 2 --Safe Operating Practices
    Unit 2.1--Visual search
    Unit 2.2--Communication
    Unit 2.3--Speed management
    Unit 2.4--Space management
    Unit 2.5--Night operations
    Unit 2.6--Extreme driving conditions
    Unit 2.7--Proficiency development
Section 3--Advanced Operating Procedures
    Unit 3.1--Hazard perception
    Unit 3.2--Emergency maneuvers
    Unit 3.3--Skid control and recovery
    Unit 3.4--Special situations
Section 4--Vehicle Maintenance
    Unit 4.1--Vehicle systems
    Unit 4.2--Preventative maintenance and servicing
    Unit 4.3--Diagnosing malfunctions
Section 5--Non-Driving Activities
    Unit 5.1--Handling cargo
    Unit 5.2--Hours of service requirements
    Unit 5.3--Crash procedures
    Unit 5.4--Trip planning
    Unit 5.5--Miscellaneous topics

    For Class B applicants, the mandatory minimum hours of behind-
the-wheel training must be conducted in a representative vehicle for 
that class of license.
    For Class C applicants, the mandatory minimum hours of behind-
the-wheel training must be conducted in a straight-truck having a 
gross vehicle weight rating of at least 14,000 pounds. Where 
appropriate in Class C training, the use of a trailer in addition to 
the required straight-truck is recommended.

Section 1--Basic Operation

[MINIMUM HOURS--Classroom--15; BTW--18; Total Hours--33]

    The units in this section must cover the interaction between the 
driver and the commercial motor vehicle (CMV). The entry-level CDL 
driver-trainee will receive instruction in the Federal Motor Carrier 
Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) and will be introduced to the basic 
vehicle instruments and controls. The student will also receive 
basic instruction in the hazardous materials (HM) regulations issued 
by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 
(PHMSA). The units in this section must also teach students how to 
properly perform vehicle inspections and control the motion of the 
vehicle under various road and traffic conditions.
    During the driving exercises at off-highway locations required 
by this section, students must first familiarize themselves with the 
basic operating characteristics of the CMV. Students must be able to 
perform the skills learned in each unit to a level of proficiency 
required to permit safe transition to on-street driving.
    Unit 1.1--Orientation. This unit must introduce students to the 
driver training curriculum and the components of the vehicle. The 
student will learn the safety fundamentals, essential regulatory 
requirements (i.e., overview of FMCSRs/HM regulations), and driver 
responsibilities not directly related to driving. This unit must 
also include an overview of the applicability of State and local 
laws relating to the safe operation of the CMV.
    Unit 1.2--Control systems. This unit must introduce students to 
vehicle instruments and controls. The student will learn to read 
gauges and instruments correctly and learn correct use of vehicle 
safety components, including use of mirrors and proper safety belt 
use for both driver and passengers.
    Unit 1.3--Vehicle inspection. This unit must stress to students 
the importance of vehicle inspections and help them develop the 
skills necessary for conducting pre-trip, en-route, and post-trip 
inspections.
    Unit 1.4--Basic control. This unit must introduce basic 
vehicular control and handling. This must include instruction 
addressing basic vehicular control in areas such as executing sharp 
left and right turns.
    Unit 1.5--Backing. This unit must prepare students to back the 
vehicle safely, particularly related to the safety of pedestrians.
    Unit 1.6--Proficiency development. The purpose of this unit is 
to enable entry-level CDL driver-trainees to gain proficiency and 
demonstrate the skills taught in Units 1.1 through 1.5. The 
activities of this unit must consist of driving exercises that 
provide practice for the development of basic control skills and 
mastery of basic maneuvers. Nearly all activity in this unit will 
take place on the driving range or on streets or roads that have 
low-density traffic conditions.

Section 2--Safe Operating Practices

[MINIMUM HOURS--Classroom--8; BTW--12; Total Hours--20]

    The units in this section teach the practices required for safe 
operation of the vehicle on the highway. Entry-level CDL driver-
trainees must be taught how to apply their basic operating skills in 
a way that ensures their safety and that of other road users under 
various road, weather, and traffic conditions.
    Unit 2.1--Visual search. The purpose of this unit is to enable 
students to visually search the road for potential hazards and 
critical objects.

[[Page 73247]]

    Unit 2.2--Communication. The purpose of this unit is to enable 
students to communicate their intentions to other road users (e.g., 
proper signaling). Students will learn techniques for different 
types of communication on the road.
    Unit 2.3--Speed management. The purpose of this unit is to 
enable students to manage speed effectively in response to various 
road, weather, and traffic conditions. Emphasis must be placed upon 
maintaining safe vehicular speed.
    Unit 2.4--Space management. The purpose of this unit is to 
enable students to manage the space required for safe vehicle 
operation. Emphasis must be placed upon maintaining appropriate 
space surrounding the vehicle under various traffic and road 
conditions.
    Unit 2.5--Night operations. Students will learn how to operate 
safely at night. Emphasis must be placed upon the factors affecting 
operation of CMVs at night. Night driving presents specific factors 
that require special attention on the part of the driver. Changes in 
vehicle safety inspection, vision, communications, speed, and space 
management are needed to deal with the special problems night 
driving presents.
    Unit 2.6--Extreme driving conditions. This unit must provide 
instruction addressing the driving of CMVs under extreme driving 
conditions. Emphasis must be placed upon the factors affecting the 
operation of CMVs in the extreme driving conditions of ice, snow, 
rain, and wind. Changes in basic driving habits are needed to deal 
with the specific problems presented by these types of driving 
conditions.
    Unit 2.7--Proficiency development. This unit must provide entry-
level CDL driver-trainees an opportunity to refine, within the on-
street traffic environment, their vehicle handling skills learned in 
Section 1, and the safe operating practices learned in Section 2. 
Driver-student performance progress must be closely monitored to 
determine when the level of proficiency required for carrying out 
the basic traffic maneuvers of stopping, turning, merging, curves, 
lane changing, passing, driving through traffic restrictions, 
driving through intersections, and parking has been attained. 
Driver-students must also be assessed for compliance with all 
traffic laws.
    Nearly all activity in this unit will take place on public 
roadways in a full range of traffic environments applicable to the 
vehicle configuration. To the extent possible, this must include 
urban and rural uncontrolled roadways, expressways, or freeways, 
under light, moderate, and heavy traffic conditions.

Section 3--Advanced Operating Procedures

[MINIMUM HOURS--Classroom-11; BTW-2; Total Hours--13]

    The units in this section must introduce higher level skills 
that can be acquired only after the more fundamental skills and 
knowledge taught in sections one and two have been mastered. 
Qualified driver-instructors must teach the perceptual skills 
necessary to recognize potential hazards, and must demonstrate the 
procedures needed to handle a CMV when faced with a hazard.
    Unit 3.1--Hazard perception. The purpose of this unit is to 
enable students to recognize potential dangers in the driving 
environment and to take appropriate defensive action(s) before the 
dangers develop into emergencies. The unit must provide instruction 
addressing the principles of recognizing hazards in sufficient time 
to reduce the severity of the hazard and neutralize possible 
emergencies. Students must identify road conditions and other road 
users that are a potential threat to safety of the vehicle and 
suggest appropriate adjustments. Emphasis must be placed upon hazard 
recognition, visual search, and response to possible emergency-
producing situations encountered in various traffic situations. 
Included in this unit should be a discussion of driver/passenger 
relationships relating to driver distraction issues.
    Unit 3.2--Emergency maneuvers. The purpose of this is unit is to 
enable students to carry out appropriate responses when faced with 
CMV emergencies. These must include evasive steering, emergency 
braking, off-road recovery, brake failures, tire blowouts, 
hydroplaning, skidding, and the rollover phenomenon. Instruction 
about the vehicle's center of gravity and weight distribution shifts 
which increases the risk of rollover should be covered in this unit. 
The discussion must include a review of unsafe acts and the role 
they play in producing hazardous situations.
    Unit 3.3--Skid control and recovery. The purpose of this unit is 
to teach the causes of skidding and techniques for avoiding and 
recovering from skids. The student must be able to maintain 
directional control and bring the CMV to a stop in the shortest 
possible distance while operating over a slippery surface.
    Unit 3.4--Special situations. Students will learn to recognize 
potential dangers and appropriate safety procedures to utilize at 
railroad (RR) grade crossings and construction/work zones.

Section 4--Vehicle Maintenance

[MINIMUM HOURS--Classroom--5; BTW-0; Total Hours--5]

    This section is intended to provide entry-level CDL driver-
trainees with sufficient knowledge of the CMV and its systems and 
subsystems to insure that they understand and respect their role in 
vehicle inspection, operation, and maintenance and the impact of 
those factors upon highway safety and operational efficiency.
    Unit 4.1--Vehicle systems. The purpose of this unit is to teach 
students to identify major CMV systems. The goal is to explain their 
function, and how to check all key vehicle systems, e.g., engine, 
engine exhaust auxiliary systems, brakes, and drive train. The 
student will be provided with a detailed description of each system, 
its importance to safe and efficient operation, and what is needed 
to keep the system in good operating condition.
    Unit 4.2--Preventative maintenance and servicing. The purpose of 
this unit is to introduce students to the basic servicing and 
checking procedures for various engine and vehicle components and to 
help develop their ability to perform preventative maintenance and 
simple emergency repairs.
    Unit 4.3--Diagnosing malfunctions. The purpose of this unit is 
to enable the students to diagnose vehicle malfunctions and to 
perform emergency maintenance procedures correctly.

Section 5--Non-Driving Activities

[MINIMUM HOURS--Classroom--19; BTW-0; Total Hours 19]

    The units in this section are designed to prepare entry-level 
CDL driver-trainees to handle those responsibilities of a CMV driver 
that do not involve operating the vehicle. The units in this section 
must ensure these activities are performed in a manner that ensures 
the safety of the driver, vehicle, passengers, cargo, and other road 
users.
    Unit 5.1--Handling cargo. The purpose of this unit is to enable 
students to understand the basic theory of cargo weight 
distribution, cargo securement on the vehicle, covering, and 
techniques for safe and efficient loading/unloading in the classroom 
followed by practical demonstration and practice. Basic information 
regarding the proper handling and documentation of hazardous 
materials cargo will also be covered in this unit.
    Unit 5.2--Hours of service requirements. The purpose of this 
unit is to enable students to understand the basic concepts and 
requirements of the FMCSRs--Part 395, ``Hours of Service of 
Drivers''--and to develop the ability to complete a Driver's Daily 
Log and logbook recap. The issues of driver fatigue and staying 
alert will also be covered in this unit.
    Unit 5.3--Crash procedures. The purpose of this unit is to teach 
students how to follow safe and legal procedures at a crash scene.
    Unit 5.4--Trip planning. This unit must address the importance 
of and requirements for planning routes and trips. This instruction 
must address the importance of planning the safest route, including 
planning for rest stops, heavy traffic areas, etc.
    Unit 5.5--Miscellaneous topics. In this unit, students will 
learn the Federal rules on medical certification, medical 
examination procedures, general qualifications, responsibilities, 
and disqualifications based on various offenses, orders, and loss of 
driving privileges (49 CFR part 391, subparts B and E).
    The student will learn about driver wellness. Basic health 
maintenance including diet and exercise and the importance of 
avoiding excessive use of alcohol must be covered in this unit.
    The right of an employee to question the safety practices of an 
employer without incurring the risk of losing a job or being subject 
to reprisals simply for stating a safety concern is included in this 
unit. The student will become familiar with the whistleblower 
protection regulations in 29 CFR part 1978.
    The student will learn about proper passenger safety/protection 
including instruction in the proper use of emergency flares and fire 
extinguishers.

PART 383--COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE STANDARDS; REQUIREMENTS AND 
PENALTIES

    14. The authority citation for part 383 continues to read as 
follows:


[[Page 73248]]


    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 521, 31136, 31301 et seq., 31502; sec. 214 
of Pub. L. 106-159, 113 Stat. 1766, 1767; sec. 1012(b) of Pub. L. 
107-56, 115 Stat. 397; sec. 4140 of Pub. L. 109-59, 119 Stat. 1144; 
and 49 CFR 1.73.

    15. Amend Sec.  383.71 by adding paragraph (a)(10) to read as 
follows:

Sec.  383.71. Driver application procedures.

    (a) * * *
    (10) On and after [date 3 years after effective date of final 
rule], a person who operates or expects to operate in interstate 
commerce must provide to the State of issuance a copy of the Driver 
Training Certificate required by subpart F of part 380 of this 
subchapter showing that the applicant has successfully completed the 
training required therein. A person who operates or expects to operate 
entirely in intrastate commerce and is not subject to subpart F of part 
380 is subject to State driver qualification requirements and must 
certify that he/she is not subject to subpart F of part 380.
* * * * *
    16. Amend Sec.  383.73 by adding paragraph (a)(6), and revising 
paragraphs (a)(3)(ii), (d), and (g) to read as follows:


Sec.  383.73  State procedures.

    (a) * * *
    (3) * * *
    (ii) A check with the CDLIS to determine whether the driver 
applicant has already been issued a CDL, whether the applicant's 
license has been suspended, revoked, or canceled, or if the applicant 
has been disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle, and, 
if the CDL was issued on or after [date 3 years after effective date of 
final rule], whether the applicant has completed the training required 
by subpart F of part 390 of this subchapter;
* * * * *
    (6) On and after [date 3 years after effective date of final rule], 
for persons who operate or expect to operate in interstate commerce, or 
who are otherwise subject to subpart F of part 380 of this subchapter, 
obtain a copy of the Driver Training Certificate required by subpart F 
of part 380 showing that the applicant has successfully completed the 
training required therein, document such training in the CDLIS driver's 
history file, and maintain a copy of the certificate.
* * * * *
    (d) License upgrades. Prior to issuing an upgrade of a CDL, a 
State:
    (1) Must require such driver applicant to provide certifications, 
pass tests, and meet applicable hazardous materials standards specified 
in Sec.  383.71(d).
    (2) On and after [date 3 years after effective date of final rule], 
must require drivers upgrading to a Class A CDL from a Class B or C CDL 
to complete all of the training required in Part I of Appendix B to 
part 380 of this subchapter.
    (3) On and after [date 3 years after effective date of final rule], 
must require that a person with a CDL restricted to intrastate 
operations only who applies for an unrestricted CDL successfully 
complete the training required by subpart F of part 380 of this 
subchapter if the application is within 3 years of the issuance of the 
``intrastate operations only'' restricted CDL, or
    (4) On and after [Date 3 years after effective date of the final 
rule], may exempt from the training required by subpart F of part 380 a 
person with a CDL restricted to intrastate operations only who applies 
for an unrestricted CDL, if the application is more that 3 years after 
the date of issuance of the ``intrastate operations only'' restricted 
CDL and the applicant demonstrates that during the 3 years prior to 
applying for removal of the restriction, he/she:
    (i) Has not had more than one license;
    (ii) Has not had any license suspended, revoked, or canceled;
    (iii) Has not had any convictions for any type of motor vehicle for 
the disqualifying offenses contained in Sec.  383.51(b);
    (iv) Has not had more than one conviction for any type of motor 
vehicle for serious traffic violations contained in Sec.  383.51(c);
    (v) Has not had any conviction in a CMV for the disqualifying 
offenses in Sec.  383.51(d) or (e); and
    (vi) Has not had any conviction for a violation of State or local 
law relating to motor vehicle traffic control (other than a parking 
violation) arising in connection with any traffic crash, and has no 
record of a crash in which he/she was at fault.
    (5) Must complete a check of the driver applicant's record as 
described in Sec.  383.73(a)(3).
* * * * *
    (g) Penalties for false information. If a State determines, in its 
check of an applicant's license status and record prior to issuing a 
CDL, or at any time after the CDL is issued, that the applicant has 
falsified information contained in subpart J of this part or any of the 
certificates or certifications required in Sec.  383.71(a), the State 
must at a minimum suspend, cancel, or revoke the person's CDL or his/
her pending application, or disqualify the person from operating a 
commercial motor vehicle for a period of at least 60 consecutive days.
* * * * *
    17. Revise Sec.  383.95 to read as follows:


Sec.  383.95  Restrictions on the CDL.

    (a) Air brake restriction. (1) If an applicant either fails the air 
brake component of the knowledge test, or performs the skills test in a 
vehicle not equipped with air brakes, the State must indicate on the 
CDL, if issued, that the person is restricted from operating a CMV 
equipped with air brakes.
    (2) For the purposes of the skills test and the restriction, air 
brakes include any braking system operating fully or partially on the 
air brake principle.
    (b) Intrastate restriction. On and after [date 3 years after 
effective date of final rule] if an applicant has not completed the 
training specified in subpart F of part 380 of this subchapter, the 
State must restrict the license to intrastate operations only. This 
``intrastate operations only'' restriction may be removed without 
requiring the training so specified after three years if the driver 
meets the requirements in Sec.  383.73(d)(4).
    18. Amend Sec.  383.153 by adding paragraph (a)(10) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  383.153  Information on the document and application.

    (a) * * *
    (10) The restrictions on the driver's operating privileges, if any, 
indicated as follows:
    (i) ``A'' for air brakes.
    (ii) ``I'' for intrastate only.
* * * * *

PART 384--STATE COMPLIANCE WITH COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE PROGRAM

    19. The authority citation for part 384 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 31136, 31301 et seq., 31502; sec. 103 of 
Pub. L. 106-159, 113 Stat. 1753, 1767; sec. 4140 of Pub. L. 109-59, 
119 Stat. 1144; and 49 CFR 1.73.
    20. Add Sec.  384.230 to read as follows:


Sec.  384.230  Entry-level training certificate.

    On and after [date 3 years after effective date of final rule] a 
State may not issue a new CDL, a CDL upgraded from intrastate to 
interstate, or a CDL upgraded from one class to another, unless it 
follows the procedures prescribed in Sec.  383.73 of this subchapter 
for obtaining the Driver Training Certificate required by subpart F of 
part 380 of this subchapter showing that the applicant has successfully 
completed the entry-level driver training required therein. Prior to 
that date, a State may not require an applicant to present a

[[Page 73249]]

Driver Training Certificate in order to obtain a CDL.

    Issued on: December 17, 2007.
John H. Hill,
Administrator.
[FR Doc. E7-24769 Filed 12-21-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-EX-P