Trucking Industry Updates: Key Developments for CDL Drivers

1. Upcoming License Downgrades: Immediate Action Required

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has announced that effective November 18, 2024, state licensing agencies will begin downgrading commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) for drivers listed as ‘prohibited’ in the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse. Currently, over 163,000 CDL holders are affected. To maintain your driving privileges, initiate the Return-to-Duty process promptly. 

163K drivers risk losing their CDL when license downgrades start in November
Truck drivers with a “prohibited” status in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse have just a few months to act before state licensing agencies begin removing their commercial driving privileges in November.

2. Addressing the CDL Testing Backlog in Minnesota

Minnesota has enacted new legislation to alleviate the backlog in CDL testing, which previously led to wait times of up to nine weeks. The law permits third-party testing and removes the 180-hour training requirement, aiming to streamline the licensing process for approximately 10,000 drivers annually. 

Law aims to ease backlog for new drivers after long waits ‘saw students fail’
TRUCKING companies experienced a backlog of drivers getting their Class A license – a new law aims to streamline the process. Truckers used to have to wait up to a few months for their licens…

3. Celebrating New CDL Graduates in Michigan

West Shore Community College, in partnership with Pinnacle Truck Driver Training, has celebrated the graduation of its first CDL program cohort. This initiative aims to address the driver shortage by equipping new professionals with essential skills. 

WSCC’s first CDL program cohort graduates after Pinnacle partnership
West Shore Community College and Pinnacle Truck Driver Training recently graduated the first cohort of students who were able to obtain a CDL.

4. Spotlight on Women in Trucking

The “Women Who Travel” podcast recently featured Desiree Wood, a long-haul truck driver, who shared her experiences navigating the industry. She highlighted the profession’s freedoms and challenges, emphasizing the need for safer training conditions for women. 

Women Who Travel Podcast: A Trucker on Seeing the US By Road
Desiree Wood tells host Lale Arikoglu about the freedom and dangers of life on the road.

5. Addressing License Revocations in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has implemented a “lifetime lookback” policy, leading to the revocation of CDLs for drivers with decades-old violations. This measure has faced criticism for its sudden impact on drivers’ livelihoods. The state has temporarily paused these revocations to allow affected drivers to appeal. 

My driver’s license was revoked over 30-year old issue – I can’t get it back
HUNDREDS of driver’s licenses have suddenly been revoked for decades-old violations. Lifelong professional truck drivers like Walter McCloskey were left picking up the pieces after the crackd…

6. Combatting Cargo Theft in Philadelphia

Philadelphia has experienced a series of cargo thefts targeting parked semi-trucks. Drivers are advised to remain vigilant, park in well-lit areas, and report any suspicious activity to authorities. 

Philly cargo thieves strike again
Another cargo theft in Philly has police looking for three suspects. One industry insider said what was stolen is a favorite among thieves.

7. New Training Opportunities in Illinois

Oakton College, in collaboration with 160 Driving Academy, has launched a CDL training program in Des Plaines, Illinois. The program offers accelerated training, hands-on learning, and strong employer partnerships, providing a fast track to high-paying trucking careers. 

Oakton College CDL Open House showcases a fast track to high-paying, in-demand trucking careers
The event highlighted hands-on training and career opportunities for aspiring commercial drivers Oakton College and 160 Driving Academy celebrated the one-year anniversary of bringing Commercial…

Stay informed and stay safe on the road!