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The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has recently announced a new under-21 pilot program. Additionally, this program would allow CDL holders under the age of 21 to operate and drive interstate.

Furthermore, the FMCSA just announced this program a few weeks ago.

Additionally, the FMCSA wants to clarify that their new proposed program does not include allowing 18-21 year olds to be driving without any restrictions. Still they are looking for comments from the public about this potential new program.

The FMCSA is looking for information and insight on the following topics:

• Available data on the safety performance of under-21 intrastate truckers
• Concerns over insuring under-21 drivers for both intrastate and interstate commerce
• Require minimum training for drivers in the pilot program?
• What kind of supervision should be required?
• Should there be training requirements for mentors, supervisors or co-drivers of under-21 truckers in the program?
• Can participating carriers be required to establish a formal apprenticeship program?
• Placing time or distance restrictions on younger drivers.
• Will younger drivers be prohibited from hauling hazmat and oversize/overweight?
• What standards should carriers and drivers have to meet to participate in the pilot?
• What should happen if drivers in the pilot are convicted of violations while operating interstate?
• At what point should a driver or carrier be removed from the program?
• Should FMCSA require safety equipment or on-board recording systems in the pilot?

Still, some veteran drivers are quick to criticize this program. They want stricter restrictions put in place. Do you agree? Let us know in the comments below.