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FMCSA CDL Under-the-Hood Testing Waiver

APTA RESOURCES

To help address bus driver shortages, APTA has worked to simplify the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) test. Specifically, over the past two years, APTA requested and secured an FMCSA CDL “under-the-hood” testing exemption for drivers.

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). It 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.

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.

In addition, State adoption will demonstrate to FMCSA that there is ongoing demand for the waiver, and the agency will be more likely to extend it in 2027.

If you have questions regarding the FMCSA CDL under-the-hood testing waiver, please contact Stacie Tiongson (stiongson@apta.com) or Matthew Dickens (mdickens@apta.com) of the APTA staff.

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