FMCSA Launches New Training Provider Registry

The Federal Motor Carrier Administration (FMCSA) has finally launched its long-awaited Training Provider Registry. This comes five years after the agency published its Entry-Level Driver Training rule.

The registry goes into effect on February 7, 2022, and from then on, only registry-listed training providers will be eligible to train pre-CDL drivers.

Who is Eligible for the Registry?

While registering, training providers must self-certify that they meet the requirements listed in the rule.

These include that they:

• Follow training curriculum listed in the rule
• Use facilities, vehicles and instructors that meet criteria outlined in the rule
• Meet recordkeeping requirements
• Are licensed, certified, registered, or authorized to provide training in accordance with state laws and regulations where they are conducting training

What are Curriculum Requirements?

Overall training must encompass both behind-the-wheel and theory training, and must cover these general topics:

• Orientation
• Basic operation
• Safe operating practices
• Advanced operations
• Nondriving activities

Some of the behind-the-wheel and theory training curricula must include:

• Basic control
• Shifting/Operating Transmissions
• Backing and docking
• Distracted driving
• Speed management and space management
• Night operation
• Extreme driving conditions
• Roadside inspections
• Hours of Service requirements
• Post-crash procedures

The above lists are in no way exhaustive. To read the full rule and curriculum requirements, go here.

Driver-students must pass both knowledge and skills tests that include all maneuvers and operations practiced during behind-the-wheel instructions for the specific type of training program being taught. To pass, they must answer at least 80 percent of questions on each knowledge test correctly and demonstrate that they can perform all skills addressed in the rule.

Trainers can develop their own tests and scoring systems.

Driver certification information then submitted to the Registry will include:

• Driver-trainee name, date of birth, and license/permit number and state of issuance.
• CDL class/endorsement and type of training completed (behind-the-wheel or theory).
• Total number of clock hours spent behind-the-wheel (if applicable).
• Training provider name, location, and registry ID number.
• Date of successful completion of training.

How to Register

Training providers must use or create a login.gov username (requiring an email address and password) to access the registry.

They must also submit:

• Their name and contact information.
• Their facility name and contact information.
• Whether driver enrollment is open to the public or by private enrollment.
• The type of training provided, average training hours, and average training cost.
• Any third-party affiliations, certifications, or accreditations.

One person from each company can register, and once approved, that user must register all training locations separately. They can also invite other people from their company to register and work on their behalf.

The list of registered training providers will be made public later in 2021.

What is the Registry—and Why Was it Established?

FMCSA’s entry-level driver training rule establishes minimum training requirements for entry-level commercial motor vehicle operators in interstate and intrastate commerce. This applies to all those applying for a Class A or Class B CDLs for the first time, those upgrading their CDLs, or those applying for a hazmat, passenger, or school bus endorsement for the first time.

The rule was initially published on Dec. 7, 2016 and had been set to go into effect on Feb. 7, 2020. However, at that time the FMCSA officially extended the compliance date for another year.

According to the agency, the registry is intended to improve highway safety by ensuring that only qualified drivers are behind the wheel of commercial motor vehicles. It will connect entry-level drivers with training providers who can provide them with the proper knowledge to safely operate CMVs for which commercial learner’s permits or commercial drivers’ licenses are required.

Questions or concerns about requirements or how to register? Contact Foley today!