Training Drivers Under 21: FMCSA Requests Comments

FMCSA Requests Comments on ATA Under-21 Driver Exemption

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is requesting public comments on a new exemption application. The request was submitted by the American Trucking Associations (ATA).

The exemption would affect federal rules on the minimum age for interstate truck drivers. If approved, it would allow certain motor carriers to continue training drivers under the age of 21.

The notice is scheduled for publication in the Federal Register on January 28, 2026.

FMCSA Rules Set Minimum Age at 21 for Interstate Drivers

Federal regulations require interstate commercial drivers to be at least 21 years old. This requirement is listed in 49 CFR 391.11(b)(1).

FMCSA has authority under federal law to grant exemptions from some safety rules. These exemptions may last up to five years and may be renewed.

Before granting an exemption, the agency must review safety data and allow time for public comment.

SDAP Program Ended November 2025

FMCSA previously allowed younger drivers through the Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot program, also known as SDAP. The agency announced the program in January 2022.

Data collection began in November 2022. The SDAP program allowed approved motor carriers to train drivers aged 18 to 20 for interstate operations.

Federal law limited the pilot program to three years, and it ended on November 7, 2025.

ATA Requests Five-Year Exemption

ATA is requesting a five-year exemption from FMCSA. The request applies only to carriers that were approved to participate in the SDAP program.

If granted, these carriers could continue onboarding and training 18- to 20-year-old drivers.

ATA states that safety data from the SDAP program showed positive results. According to ATA, apprentice drivers logged millions of miles without reportable crashes.

ATA also says the exemption would create minimal administrative burden. They also state that participating carriers would face limited added requirements.

Safety Record and Program End Date

ATA argues that the SDAP program met an equivalent level of safety. The group points to FMCSA oversight during the pilot.

FMCSA confirmed it had authority to remove carriers or drivers if safety concerns arose. The agency did not end the program early.

The SDAP program ended when the exemption expired, not due to safety issues.

FMCSA Authority Governs Exemption Decisions

FMCSA’s authority to grant exemptions comes from federal laws 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 49 U.S.C. 31315(b).

The agency must publish exemption requests in the Federal Register and give the public time to review and comment.

Public Comment Period Open

Acceptance of public comments on the exemption request begin tomorrow. All submissions must reference Docket Number FMCSA-2025-1117.

Comments are requested from all interested parties. This includes truck drivers, motor carriers, and industry organizations.

Comments may be submitted through regulations.gov. They may also be submitted by mail, fax, or hand delivery.

Comments received by the deadline will be reviewed. Late comments may also be considered when practicable.

Decision Could Affect Limited Group of Carriers

If approved, the exemption would apply only to former SDAP carriers. It would not apply to all motor carriers.

The request reflects ongoing workforce discussions within the trucking industry. It also highlights FMCSA’s role in balancing workforce needs with safety standards.

The application, safety data, and public comments will be reviewed before a final decision is made.