PAM Transport Asks FMCSA to Let CLP Holders Drive Without a CDL Holder in the Front Seat
Arkansas carrier PAM has requested an exemption from the rule requiring a CDL holder beside a learner’s-permit driver. The company estimates it would cover 500 to 700 drivers a year.
Key facts
PAM Transport of Tontitown, Ark., is asking FMCSA for an exemption from 49 CFR 383.25(a)(1), which requires a CDL holder in the front seat while a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) holder drives.
The exemption would apply to drivers who have passed the CDL skills test but have not yet received their CDL from their home state.
PAM says it would let drivers “begin employment in a timelier manner” and estimates 500 to 700 CLP holders a year would operate under it.
The Federal Register notice was published Oct. 27; comments are open through Nov. 27 (Docket FMCSA-2026-3466).
Seven carriers already hold such exemptions, including Werner, CRST and CR England. Landair got a five-year one on Sept. 1 (8 of 10 comments opposed), and Agri-Tech Aviation’s request was denied.
Source: Land Line, Federal Register (docket FMCSA-2026-3466)