New training requirements for commercial truck drivers go into effect this month. As of February 7, 2022, entry-level drivers may be subject to new training requirements. These training requirements are an effort to make the roads safer for everyone. Here, we will provide general information regarding how to obtain your commercial driver license in Nevada as well as information about the new training requirements.
We hope the below discussion helps you understand the new training requirements for commercial truck drivers. If you are injured in a truck accident, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer. A personal injury lawyer will help to protect your rights and ensure you receive maximum compensation.
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Commercial Driver Licensing
Truck drivers are prominent in the United States. In 2020, there were 3.36 million truck drivers employed in the United States. While this was a 6.8 percent decrease from 2019, the number of truck drivers in this country is significant.
Commercial truck drivers must meet certain requirements. In Nevada, a Commercial Driver License (CDL) is required to drive a commercial motor vehicle.
What Is a Commercial Motor Vehicle?
Not all vehicles are commercial motor vehicles. You probably know that the car parked in your driveway is not a commercial motor vehicle. But what about a large van? Is that a commercial motor vehicle? It might be, depending on its size and use.
A commercial motor vehicle is a motor vehicle or combination of motor vehicles used in commerce to transport passengers or property if the motor vehicle:
- Has a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more inclusive of a towed unit(s) with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds; or
- Has a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more; or
- Is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver; or
- Is of any size and is used in the transportation of hazardous materials that require placarding.
Now that you understand how a commercial motor vehicle is defined, we can continue to discuss CDL requirements.
Does a CDL Have Age Requirements?
We all know that a traditional driver license has age restrictions. CDLs also have age restrictions. The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles provides the following information on age requirements for CDLs:
- You must be at least 21 years of age to be issued a CDL to operate a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce and to receive endorsements for passengers or hazardous materials.
- You must be at least 25 to receive an endorsement for vehicle combinations over 70 feet in length.
- CDLs issued to applicants age 18 to 20 will contain Restriction R (no passengers or hazmat) and Restriction 2 (intrastate commerce only).
What Is the CDL Application Process?
In Nevada, drivers must complete an application process to obtain their CDL. You should check the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles website for detailed information regarding the application process. The application process in Nevada may require you to do the following:
- Provide your driving history from all states for the past ten years
- Meet the residency and proof of identity requirements
- Self-certify the type of driving you do
- Submit a Medical Examiner’s Certificate if necessary
- Complete an Application for Commercial Driving Privileges
Do CDLs Require Training?
CDLs may require training, depending on your experience. Most entry-level commercial drivers are now required to undergo mandatory training under new federal regulations. We will discuss the Entry-Level Driver Training regulations in more detail below.
Even the most responsible commercial truck driver can be injured in an accident. If you have been injured in a truck accident, you should contact an experienced truck accident attorney. An experienced accident attorney can protect your rights and help you receive maximum compensation. The lawyers at Anthem Injury Lawyers are experienced and dedicated personal injury lawyers. Contact Anthem Injury Lawyers today at (702) 857-6000 to make an appointment for a free consultation.
Entry-Level Driver Training
As of February 7, 2022, entry-level drivers subject to the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations must complete the required training from a registered training provider before obtaining a CDL or specified endorsement for the first time. In Nevada, CDL applicants must complete the required training before taking the skills test.
What Are the ELDT Regulations?
The Federal ELDT regulations cover both classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the regulations were developed to “ensure that entry-level drivers receive the knowledge and skills necessary to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle.”
Who Is Subject to the ELDT Regulations?
Individuals subject to the ELDT regulations include those applying to:
- Obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time;
- Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL; or
- Obtain a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time.
If you obtain your Commercial Learner Permit on or after February 7, 2022, you must also complete ELDT.
What Is the Training Provider Registry?
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s FMCSA just launched its Training Provider Registry. According to the FMCSA, the Training Provider Registry is an online database that aims to improve highway safety by:
- Maintaining the list of registered training providers that have self-certified they meet Federal training requirements; and
- Retaining a record of all individuals who have completed the required entry-level driver training.
If you are trying to obtain ELDT then you must use the Training Provider Registry to find a training provider. Additionally, the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles will now use the information in the Training Provider Registry to verify that a CDL applicant has completed the required training before administering the applicable skills test.
EXPERIENCED LAS VEGAS PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS
We hope the above discussion helps you understand new CDL training requirements. If you are injured in a truck accident, the most important thing you can do is to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer. A personal injury lawyer can help you protect your rights and navigate the complications that come with a truck accident.
Sometimes people are unsure if they need an attorney, or if a truck accident attorney can really make a difference in receiving compensation. Our experienced team of personal injury attorneys gives you the best opportunity to get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Well-meaning friends may tell you that a truck accident lawyer in Las Vegas is too expensive. This is not true! We work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you won’t have to worry about affordability. Plus, with our extensive truck accident case experience, you have the best chance for a positive outcome for your case.
Remember—when it comes to seeking maximum compensation, you’ll want to put your case in the hands of the experts at Anthem Injury Lawyers. We have over 25 years of experience representing Las Vegas truck accident victims. Contact us today at (702) 745-8172 to make an appointment for a free consultation.
