What does 49 CFR 380.305 (Employer responsibilities) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 380.305 requires motor carriers to ensure that LCV driver training is provided by qualified instructors and that training institutions meet specific requirements, including accreditation and compliance with state training school requirements.

The rule says

"No motor carrier shall: (1) Knowingly allow, require, permit or authorize a driver-instructor in its employ, or under contract to the motor carrier, to provide LCV driver training unless such person is a qualified LCV driver-instructor under the requirements of this subpart" (49 CFR 380.305(a)(1))

"Contract with a training institution to provide LCV driver training unless the institution: (i) Uses instructors who are qualified LCV driver-instructors under the requirements of this subpart" (49 CFR 380.305(a)(2)(i))

In plain English

This rule is about making sure that motor carriers provide high-quality training to their drivers, specifically for long-combination vehicles (LCVs). The goal is to ensure that drivers are properly trained and qualified to operate these complex vehicles safely. Motor carriers must verify that their instructors are qualified and that any training institutions they contract with meet specific standards, including accreditation and compliance with state regulations. This helps to prevent accidents and improve road safety.

What to do

• Verify the qualifications of LCV driver-instructors before allowing them to provide training.
• Ensure that contracted training institutions are accredited and comply with state training school requirements.
• Maintain records of instructor qualifications and training institution compliance.
• Provide evidence of certifications when requested by authorized officials during a compliance review.