Ask X3What does 49 CFR 391.11 (General qualifications of drivers) require?
Generated guidance. Confirm the source and its applicability before you act. How we check sources.
Short answer
To drive a commercial motor vehicle, a person must be at least 21 years old, able to read and speak English, and physically qualified, among other requirements. A motor carrier must not permit a person to drive unless they are qualified. The requirements include having a valid commercial motor vehicle operator's license and not being disqualified to drive.
The rule says
"A person shall not drive a commercial motor vehicle unless he/she is qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle." (49 CFR 391.11(a))
"A person is qualified to drive a motor vehicle if he/she (1) Is at least 21 years old; (2) Can read and speak the English language sufficiently to converse with the general public, to understand highway traffic signs and signals in the English language, to respond to official inquiries, and to make entries on reports and records" (49 CFR 391.11(b))
In plain English
In practice, this means that motor carriers must ensure their drivers meet these basic qualifications before allowing them to operate a commercial vehicle. This includes verifying the driver's age, language proficiency, and physical qualifications, as well as checking their license status and disqualification history. Failure to comply can result in penalties and fines.
What to do
- Verify the driver's age and language proficiency during the hiring process
- Check the driver's physical qualifications and medical certification
- Confirm the driver's license status and check for any disqualifications
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date driver qualification files to demonstrate compliance