The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is allowing State driver’s licensing agencies to waive the “under-the-hood” portion of the vehicle inspection skills test for public transit operators seeking a commercial driver’s license (CDL). The waiver is in effect until July 16, 2027. The “under-the-hood” test refers specifically to the engine compartment component of the vehicle inspection test, as outlined in 49 CFR §383.113(a)(1)(i). Under-the-hood requires CDL applicants to point to, name, and identify components of the engine compartment.
FMCSA is providing States the option to waive these components because public transit agencies employ mechanics and other qualified personnel to provide roadside assistance in the case of a vehicle malfunction. Operators do not perform under-the-hood maintenance or repairs, and some are even contractually banned from these functions. Under-the-hood is also becoming less relevant as many agencies transition to zero-emission buses, which have electrified engine components that are locked and inaccessible to untrained personnel.
As part of its overall efforts to support transit agencies and address ongoing operator shortages, APTA encourages States to adopt the under-the-hood waiver for transit operators. Adopting the waiver will make it easier for agencies to hire new operators without impacting safety or decreasing the skills of operators to safely operate a transit bus.
FMCSA will be evaluating the success of the waiver and considering whether to renew it based on State implementation. Implementing the waiver helps demonstrate to FMCSA that public transit agencies are benefiting from the relief the waiver offers, and will bolster the arguments being made by APTA and NSTA to make such relief permanent.
Fact Sheets
- “Under-the-Hood” CDL Waiver for Transit Bus Operators (February 2026)
- Transit Agency Briefing Document (February 2026)
State Profiles
