FMCSA Reviews CDL Exemption Request for CLP Holders

FMCSA Reviews Covenant Logistics CDL Exemption Request

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is reviewing a request from Covenant Logistics to renew an exemption that affects how newly trained drivers operate commercial trucks. The agency is now asking for public comments before making a final decision.

The request focuses on a federal rule tied to commercial learner’s permit (CLP) holders and how they are supervised while driving.

Rule for CLP Drivers Requires Front-Seat Supervision

Under current federal regulations, a driver with a commercial learner’s permit must be supervised at all times while operating a commercial motor vehicle.

This rule requires a fully licensed CDL holder with the proper class and endorsements to sit in the front passenger seat while the CLP holder is driving the truck.

The CDL holder must also directly observe and supervise the driver during operation.

FMCSA Exemption Request From Covenant Logistics

Covenant Logistics is asking FMCSA to renew an existing exemption for five more years. The exemption would apply to drivers who have already passed their CDL skills test but are still waiting for their official CDL to be issued by their home state.

If approved, the exemption would allow these drivers to operate a commercial motor vehicle without a CDL holder sitting in the front passenger seat.

The company states that a CDL holder would still be inside the truck, but not required to sit next to the driver.

This exemption was previously granted for two years in July of 2024. It is set to expire on July 30, 2026. The company is seeking to continue operating under the same conditions.

Why Covenant Seeks Exemption Renewal

Covenant Logistics says the exemption helps reduce delays between training and employment. According to the company, drivers affected by the exemption have already completed all required steps to qualify for a CDL, including passing the skills test.

The only remaining step is the administrative process of receiving the CDL from their state.

The company states that renewing the exemption would allow drivers to:

• Begin working immediately after passing the skills test
• Gain real-world driving experience sooner
• Earn income without waiting for paperwork to be finalized

Covenant Logistics reports that it hires about 1,200 new drivers each year and estimates that roughly 2,000 drivers annually could operate under the exemption.

Review Process and Public Comment Period

FMCSA has not yet approved or denied the request. Federal law requires the agency to publish exemption requests and allow the public to comment before making a decision.

The agency will review:

• The company’s safety analysis
• Public comments submitted during the comment period
• Whether the exemption maintains a level of safety equal to or greater than current regulations

After reviewing all information, FMCSA will decide whether to grant or deny the exemption.

FMCSA Decision Could Impact Truck Drivers

If the exemption is approved, newly trained drivers could begin working sooner after passing their CDL skills test. This may reduce waiting time between completing training and starting a driving job.

Drivers may also gain more independence behind the wheel earlier in their careers, as the requirement for a CDL holder to sit in the front seat would be removed under the exemption.

However, a CDL holder would still be present in the vehicle, meaning some level of oversight would remain.

Potential Impact on the Trucking Industry

For carriers, the exemption could help speed up the hiring and onboarding process for new drivers. By allowing drivers to begin working immediately after passing their skills test, companies may reduce downtime and improve efficiency.

The exemption may also help carriers address driver demand by bringing new drivers into active roles more quickly.

At the same time, FMCSA will evaluate whether the change maintains safety standards before making a final decision.

What Happens Next in the FMCSA Review

FMCSA is currently accepting public comments on the request. After the comment period closes, the agency will review all submitted information and issue a final decision.

If approved, the exemption would continue allowing certain CLP holders to operate commercial vehicles without a CDL holder seated in the front passenger seat, as long as all conditions are met.

The final ruling will determine whether this practice remains in place for the next five years.

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