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Get ready for the new DOT entry-level driver training
Set to take effect on February 7, 2022, the FMCSA's new entry-level driver training requirement will overhaul the agency's existing rules.

Brandon Wiseman
Mar 21, 20214 min read
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FMCSA proposes to eliminate annual certificate of violations requirement
The FMCSA is proposing to do away with the requirement that drivers submit a list of traffic convictions to motor carriers at least annually

Brandon Wiseman
Dec 17, 20202 min read
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FMCSA extends and expands COVID-19 emergency declaration
The FMCSA has extended its COVID-19 emergency declaration through February 28, 2021 and expanded it to include transportation of vaccines.

Brandon Wiseman
Dec 2, 20202 min read
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Spotlight on DOT Agricultural Exemptions
The federal safety regulations contain several agriculture-related exemptions. We explore each of them in this article.

Brandon Wiseman
Nov 30, 20208 min read
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Who needs a CDL? A primer on commercial drivers' licenses.
Drivers of certain types of commercial vehicles need a commercial driver's license to operate them. We address the specifics of CDLs...

Brandon Wiseman
Nov 19, 20205 min read
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When is a DOT post-accident drug and alcohol test required?
In this article, we'll explore the specific circumstances that implicate the federal drug/alcohol post-accident testing requirements for...

Brandon Wiseman
Nov 12, 20205 min read
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What you should know about personal conveyance
Personal conveyance is one of the more amorphous concepts in commercial trucking. Here's what you should know about the topic.

Brandon Wiseman
Nov 5, 20208 min read
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5 tips for a successful DataQs appeal
DataQs, when used correctly, are great tools to help motor carriers improve their CSA scores. Here are 5 steps for filing a successful DataQ

Brandon Wiseman
Nov 2, 20207 min read
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What is a CMV and why does it matter?
Perhaps more so than any other term, the term CMV carriers a special significance in commercial transportation. We'll explore why...

Brandon Wiseman
Oct 30, 20205 min read
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What is a DOT-recordable accident?
Accidents are an unfortunate reality in commercial transportation. But certain types of accidents carry specific regulatory obligations.

Brandon Wiseman
Oct 28, 20208 min read
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How are CSA scores calculated?
CSA scores are used, in part, to prioritize carriers for enforcement action. But how are they calculated? We'll explore the methodology...

Brandon Wiseman
Oct 27, 20208 min read
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What is a DQ file and what must it include?
Motor carriers are required to create and maintain DQ—or driver qualification—files on all drivers who operate commercial vehicles for them

Brandon Wiseman
Oct 27, 20208 min read
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Who's exempt from the ELD requirement?
Certain drivers and operations are exempt from the FMCSA's electronic logging device mandate. We explore the various exemptions.

Brandon Wiseman
Oct 26, 20204 min read
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DOT short-haul exemption explained
Commercial drivers who qualify for the short-haul exemption are relieved of some, but not all, regulatory requirements.

Brandon Wiseman
Oct 14, 20206 min read
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Upgrading your DOT safety rating
A step-by-step guide to upgrading a Conditional or Unsatisfactory DOT safety rating.

Brandon Wiseman
Oct 9, 202010 min read
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What is the FMCSA's Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse?
The Clearinghouse is a central repository administered by the FMCSA for drug & alcohol testing violation data on all commercial drivers.

Brandon Wiseman
Oct 7, 20206 min read
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Hours-of-service rule changes go into effect, despite federal court challenge
Despite efforts by safety advocates to derail it, the FMCSA's final rule on hours-of-service changes goes into effect today, September 29th.

Brandon Wiseman
Sep 29, 20202 min read
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FMCSA proposes under-21 commercial driver pilot program
FMCSA proposes pilot program to allow 18-20 year old drivers to operate commercial vehicles in interstate commerce under certain conditions.

Brandon Wiseman
Sep 14, 20202 min read
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FMCSA proposes pilot program to test 14-hour pause
FMCSA to conduct pilot program to allow certain drivers to pause their 14-hour driving window with an off-duty break once per day.

Brandon Wiseman
Aug 31, 20203 min read
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Protecting your DOT safety rating
A comprehensive guide to DOT safety ratings, including how to check, improve, and protect your rating.

Brandon Wiseman
Aug 30, 20207 min read
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