CDL School Requests FMCSA Waiver for Training Under-21 Drivers from Wisconsin

Bianco Trucking Services, operating under the name CDL and Operator Training in Spalding, Michigan, has filed a petition with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requesting permission to train 18-20-year-old drivers from Wisconsin. The waiver, if approved, would allow drivers holding a Wisconsin-issued commercial learner’s permit (CLP) with a “K” restriction to attend Bianco’s driver training program. Bianco is a certified entry-level driver training (ELDT) provider listed in FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry (TPR).

Current Regulations and Bianco’s Proposal

Currently, federal regulations limit drivers under the age of 21 to operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) exclusively within their state of residence. Bianco, however, seeks to expand access to its training services to non-Michigan residents under this exemption.

The training center is located just 29 miles from the Wisconsin border, making it a convenient option for many Wisconsin-based students. According to FMCSA, Bianco shared that several young aspiring drivers from Wisconsin have expressed interest in joining because the facility is their nearest registered training provider.

Bianco also outlined safety precautions in its application. Under their proposal:

• Under-21 drivers would only operate CMVs when accompanied by a licensed training instructor.

• All range maneuvers would take place on Bianco’s insured and managed training lot.

• Every student must pass a pre-employment drug screening before beginning the program.

Public Input Requested

FMCSA is currently seeking public feedback on Bianco’s petition. Comments can be submitted through Feb. 14 here.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal