25 www.ortrucking.org Issue 4 | 2023 a first career. According to the American Trucking Associations (ATA), the average age of a driver entering the industry is about 46 years old. That means professional truck driving is typically a second (or more) career for most drivers. Since under 21-year-olds can’t lawfully drive interstate, it isn’t a first career option under current law. This program has the potential to change that. Some motor carriers may be concerned that insurance carriers would not be willing to insure young drivers. From an insurer’s perspective, lack of experience can make a driver a higher risk. Less data on a driver can also make the risk more difficult to evaluate. Many of the requirements in the Pilot Program, such as the training requirements, are designed to help alleviate those concerns. Additionally, motor carriers with a strong relationship with their insurers are more likely to be successful pursuing a young driver hiring program. There are typically several individuals involved in a motor carrier insurance transaction, including the motor carrier, the insurance agent or broker, an underwriter, and an insurer Safety or Risk Control Representative. A relationship with good communication can help provide the best information between all of those parties. Additionally, underwriters will be more open to a new driver hiring program such as a young driver pilot or a finishing school when the underwriter has an advance opportunity to learn about the risk. The Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot Program provides a new opportunity for the trucking industry to hire young drivers and show that they can haul cargo safely in interstate commerce. At the recent ATA Management Conference and Exhibition, FMCSA and ATA staff emphasized that more participants are needed for the program to be effective. Since the FMCSA is actively looking for more participants, motor carriers should contact OTA if they are interested in trying the program.
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