WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is looking for comments on establishing minimum training requirements for entry-level commercial drivers.

The agency is seeking input from commercial driver and training organizations, truck and bus associations, motor carriers, state licensing and law enforcement agencies, labour unions, safety advocacy groups, insurance companies, and the public.

The comments will help advance the aims of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (also known as “MAP-21”) which directs FMCSA to establish minimum training requirements for individuals seeking to obtain an intrastate or interstate commercial driver’s license (CDL) and become a professional truck or bus operator.

In August, FMCSA announced that it had retained a neutral convener, and was exploring the possibility of proceeding with a negotiated rulemaking.

The convener interviewed stakeholders and has recommended proceeding with a negotiated rulemaking. The convener’s report is available online.

The negotiated rulemaking committee will examine minimum training requirements, including length of classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel experience, accreditation versus certification of CDL training programs and schools, curricula for passenger, property and hazardous materials carriers, instructor qualifications, as well as other areas.

FMCSA is soliciting nominations for members of the negotiated rulemaking committee. The agency seeks to ensure a wide range of candidates are considered to achieve a balanced committee.

Comments will be accepted through January 9, 2015.