Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot Information Session (July 25, 2022)

Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot Information Session

The “Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot Information Session” YouTube video discusses the Safe Driver Apprenticeship Program, which is a collaboration between the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Department of Labor, and Commercial Drivers License division. The program, established under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021, aims to enroll 1000 carriers and focuses on safety, particularly for drivers aged 18-19 or 20 with a clean driving record. Motor carriers, experienced drivers, and apprentice drivers must meet certain requirements, including having proper authority and registration, clean safety records, CDL, and completion of a certain number of hours of on-the-job training and related classroom instruction. Vehicles used in the program must have safety features such as forward and in-cab facing cameras, automatic or automatic manual transmission, and active braking collision mitigation systems. The program will run from July 2022 to July 2025 and offers resources and support for creating or joining registered apprenticeship programs. Carriers can apply through the website and will be required to attend a separate webinar for further details. Applications are anticipated to open on July 26, 2022, with a review period and approved carriers will be added to a database for roadside enforcement personnel to identify them. The program allows only drivers under the age of 21 to participate and has several vehicle requirements, including an onboard monitoring system and active braking collision mitigation system. No assistance is provided for insurance costs