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They're not Hondas. Experience is EXTREMELY important, and the kids these days don't even want to drive, much less bother to get good at it.
I'm not huge on federal regulations generally however if they're going to regulate commercial drivers then it should be at least 21, if not 25. The entire point of regulating is to create a safer environment for the People, right? 18 year olds shouldn't be driving big rigs. It's not safe.
Well first of all. In most(if not all States) it is already legal for an 18-year-old to get a CDL and drive a Truck. However, they are restricted to Intra-State travel. The only thing this does is remove the restrictions on Interstate Travel.
Second, teens that don't want to drive are going to be very unlikely to actually go through the training and licensing required to get a Class A. So I think I would consider that as a non-starter for to any concerns.
Third, why 25? Who says someone getting a CDL at a license at 25 has the right experience compared to someone younger? Not everyone gets their learner's permit at 16 or license at 18. But if we are concerned about limitations on younger drivers, what about the age-old question of older drivers? Out of "safety" concerns should we put a maximum age on drivers?
Now, is that not to say that there should be some regulations at to WHAT they may carry...yes. I would have no issues with them being restricted to the length of the trailers or type of cargo(I.E. No Hazardous Material), but I would prefer that to be more based on years of experience than something like age.
In an effort to repair a damaged supply chain, the federal government is changing the minimum age for driving a big rig from 21 to 18. It's a test for now, but if the kid truckers don't get into too many wrecks, they'll make it permanent.
How many wrecks aren't too many??
What do you think about teens driving big rigs??
We put 18 year olds on SEAL Teams and send them to do the most sensitive work of our country. They can handle a flatbed in traffic with proper training. It’s one way or the other.
I was driving a fire engine (Class B driver's license) when I was 18. I don't ever recall anyone expressing worry about someone of that age arriving on the scene of an emergency with the engine.
Well first of all. In most(if not all States) it is already legal for an 18-year-old to get a CDL and drive a Truck. However, they are restricted to Intra-State travel. The only thing this does is remove the restrictions on Interstate Travel.
We're talking about federal restrictions. I don't care what the states are doing in this context. I also explicitly stated that I don't support the regulations. It was a "if they're going to do it, it should be done like this" comment.
Quote:
Originally Posted by FrankNSense
Second, teens that don't want to drive are going to be very unlikely to actually go through the training and licensing required to get a Class A. So I think I would consider that as a non-starter for to any concerns.
People do jobs all the time which they hate and which require training. Sorry but this is just wishful thinking.
Quote:
Originally Posted by FrankNSense
Third, why 25? Who says someone getting a CDL at a license at 25 has the right experience compared to someone younger? Not everyone gets their learner's permit at 16 or license at 18. But if we are concerned about limitations on younger drivers, what about the age-old question of older drivers? Out of "safety" concerns should we put a maximum age on drivers?
The insurance industry identified that age a long time ago as the age at which young people start driving more responsibly. I have pretty much zero doubt that their collective assessment is correct. Take it up with them if you have an issue with it.
The Feds can authorize a license for anyone they like, I guess.
I'm waiting to see if the insurance companies, who don't want to insure anyone under 25 unless they have to, will buy into the idea.
First not whiny (and valid) counterpoint I read.
As long as they pass the CDL. I might add a 1 year total generic driving experience requirement in addition.
Lots of kids not getting DL until age 17 or 18 now. In NJ age 16 DL is a nightmare. 17 a bit less so. NJ has a requirement for new drivers to drive with a "please give me an easy ticket for your quota" reflector sticker requirement.
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