SAGE Offers complete programs for training entry level truck drivers in accordance with the U.S. D.O.T. rule. Training at any location includes materials and completion certificates.
A new Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rule requires
training for entry level-drivers. The requirements apply to drivers having less than one year of experience in operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in interstate commerce who are required to hold a CDL for the type of vehicle they operate or plan to operate.
An entry-level driver who first began operating a CMV in interstate commerce requiring a CDL between July 20, 2003, and July 20, 2004 must receive the training by Oct. 18, 2004.
An entry-level driver who will begin operating a CMV in interstate commerce on or after July 21, 2004, must receive this training before beginning to drive a CMV.
The training must include instruction in the following four areas:
1. Driver qualification
Training in this area must cover the federal rules on medical certification and 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).
2. Hours of service Instruction on this topic must include the limitations on driving hours, the requirement to be off duty for a certain period of time, a record of duty status preparation, and exceptions (49 CFR Part 395). Fatigue countermeasures as a means to avoid crashes must also be included in the hours of service training.
3. Driver wellness Training in this area must include information on basic health maintenance, including diet and exercise, as well as the importance of avoiding excessive use of alcohol.
4. Whistleblower protection The right of an employee to question the safety practices of an employer without risk of losing his/her job or being subject to reprisals for stating a safety concern must be included in the training (29 CFR Part 1978).
An employer who uses an entry-level driver must ensure the driver has received the required training and has received a training certificate or diploma verifying that he/she received the training. A copy of the certificate or diploma must be placed in the driver’s personnel or qualification file. The certificate or diploma must include:
Employer’s Record Retention and Availability
The employer must maintain records, as required under 49 CFR 390.31, and make them available for inspection at their principal place of business within two days of a request from an authorized FMCSA representative.
The employer must keep an employee’s records for the duration of the employee’s employment and for one year following employment.