Motor Carrier Resources

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FMCSA will grant apprentice drivers approval to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce while they are under 21 years of age. During the pilot program’s probationary periods, apprentice drivers can operate in interstate commerce only when accompanied by a qualified, experienced driver in the passenger seat.

What required qualifications do you need to have?

Meet all safety requirements detailed in the Motor Carrier Fact Sheet.
Have an experienced driver in the passenger seat alongside the Apprentice Driver.
Provide vehicles equipped with forward-facing cameras, automatic transmission, active braking collision mitigation system.
Have proper operating authority, if required, and registration.
Have at least the minimum levels of financial responsibility required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs)
Not be a high- or moderate-risk carrier.
Not have a conditional or unsatisfactory safety rating.
Not have any open enforcement actions in the previous 6 years.
Not have a crash rate above the 2021 national average (0.96 crashes per million vehicle miles travelled).
Not have a driver out of service (OOS) rate above the 2021 national average (5.30%).
Not have a vehicle OOS rate above the 2021 national average (19.40%)
Provide proof of insurance for under 21 drivers prior to being issued an exemption from FMCSA for the age requirements found in 49 CFR 391.11(b)(1).