Appendix A to Part 380 - Class A - CDL Training Curriculum
49:5.1.1.2.23.7.11.13.4 : Appendix A
Appendix A to Part 380 - Class A - CDL Training Curriculum
Class A CDL applicants must complete the Class A CDL curriculum
outlined in this Appendix. The curriculum for Class A applicants
pertains to combination vehicles (Group A) as defined in 49 CFR
383.91(a)(1). Class A CDL applicants who possess a valid Class B
CDL may complete the Theory Instruction Upgrade Curriculum in lieu
of the Theory Instruction Standard Curriculum. There is no required
minimum number of instruction hours for theory training, but the
training instructor must cover all topics set forth in the
curriculum. There is no required minimum number of instruction
hours for BTW (range and public road) training, but the training
instructor must cover all topics set forth in the BTW curriculum.
BTW training must be conducted in a CMV for which a Class A CDL is
required. The instructor must determine and document that each
driver-trainee has demonstrated proficiency in all elements of the
BTW curriculum, unless otherwise noted. Consistent with the
definitions of BTW range training and BTW public road training in §
380.605, a simulation device cannot be used to conduct such
training or to demonstrate proficiency. Training instructors must
document the total number of clock hours each driver-trainee spends
to complete the BTW curriculum. The Class A curriculum must, at a
minimum, include the following:
Theory Instruction Standard Curriculum Section A1.1 Basic Operation
This section must cover the interaction between driver-trainees
and the CMV. Driver-trainees will receive instruction in the
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) and will be
introduced to the basic CMV instruments and controls. Training
providers will teach driver-trainees the basic operating
characteristics of a CMV. This section must also teach
driver-trainees how to properly perform vehicle inspections,
control the motion of CMVs under various road and traffic
conditions, employ shifting and backing techniques, and properly
couple and uncouple combination vehicles. Driver-trainees must
familiarize themselves with the basic operating characteristics of
a CMV.
Unit A1.1.1 Orientation
This unit must introduce driver-trainees to the combination
vehicle driver training curriculum and the components of a
combination vehicle. The training providers must teach the safety
fundamentals, essential regulatory requirements (e.g., overview of
FMCSRs and Hazardous Materials Regulations), and driver-trainees'
responsibilities not directly related to CMV driving, such as
proper cargo securement. This unit must also cover the
ramifications, including driver disqualification provisions and
fines, for non-compliance with parts 380, 382, 383, and 390 through
399 of the FMCSRs. This unit must also include an overview of the
applicability of State and local laws relating to the safe
operation of the CMV, stopping at weigh stations/scales, hazard
awareness of vehicle size and weight limitations, low clearance
areas (e.g., CMV height restrictions), and bridge formulas.
Unit A1.1.2 Control Systems/Dashboard
This unit must introduce driver-trainees to vehicle instruments,
controls, and safety components. The training providers must teach
driver-trainees to read gauges and instruments correctly and the
proper use of vehicle safety components, including safety belts and
mirrors. The training providers must teach driver-trainees to
identify, locate, and explain the function of each of the primary
and secondary controls including those required for steering,
accelerating, shifting, braking systems (e.g., ABS, hydraulic,
air), as applicable, and parking.
Unit A1.1.3 Pre- and Post-Trip Inspections
This unit must teach the driver-trainees to conduct pre-trip and
post-trip inspections as specified in §§ 392.7 and 396.11,
including appropriate inspection locations. Instruction must also
be provided on enroute vehicle inspections.
Unit A1.1.4 Basic Control
This unit must introduce basic vehicular control and handling as
it applies to combination vehicles. This unit must include
instruction addressing basic combination vehicle controls in areas
such as executing sharp left and right turns, centering the
vehicle, maneuvering in restricted areas, and entering and exiting
the interstate or controlled access highway.
Unit A1.1.5 Shifting/Operating Transmissions
This unit must introduce shifting patterns and procedures to
driver-trainees to prepare them to safely and competently perform
basic shifting maneuvers. This unit must include training
driver-trainees to execute up and down shifting techniques on
multi-speed dual range transmissions, if appropriate. The training
providers must teach the importance of increased vehicle control
and improved fuel economy achieved by utilizing proper shifting
techniques.
Unit A1.1.6 Backing and Docking
This unit must teach driver-trainees to back and dock the
combination vehicle safely. This unit must cover “Get Out and Look”
(GOAL), evaluation of backing/loading facilities, knowledge of
backing set ups, as well as instruction in how to back with the use
of spotters.
Unit A1.1.7 Coupling and Uncoupling
This unit must provide instruction for driver-trainees to
develop the skills necessary to conduct the procedures for safe
coupling and uncoupling of combination vehicle units, as
applicable.
Section A1.2 Safe Operating Procedures
This section must teach the practices required for safe
operation of the combination vehicle on the highway under various
road, weather, and traffic conditions. The training providers must
teach driver-trainees the Federal rules governing the proper use of
seat belt assemblies (§ 392.16).
Unit A1.2.1 Visual Search
This unit must teach driver-trainees to visually search the road
for potential hazards and critical objects, including instruction
on recognizing distracted pedestrians or distracted drivers.
Unit A1.2.2 Communication
This unit must instruct driver-trainees on how to communicate
their intentions to other road users. Driver-trainees must be
instructed in techniques for different types of communication on
the road, including proper use of headlights, turn signals,
four-way flashers, and horns. This unit must cover instruction in
proper utilization of eye contact techniques with other drivers,
bicyclists, and pedestrians.
Unit A1.2.3 Distracted Driving
This unit must instruct driver-trainees in FMCSRs related to
distracted driving and other key driver distraction driving issues,
including improper cell phone use, texting, and use of in-cab
technology (e.g., §§ 392.80 and 392.82). This instruction will
include training in the following aspects: visual attention
(keeping eyes on the road); manual control (keeping hands on the
wheel); and cognitive awareness (keeping mind on the task and safe
operation of the CMV).
Unit A1.2.4 Speed Management
This unit must teach driver-trainees how to manage speed
effectively in response to various road, weather, and traffic
conditions. The instruction must include methods for calibrating
safe following distances taking into account CMV braking distances
under an array of conditions including traffic, weather, and CMV
weight and length.
Unit A1.2.5 Space Management
This unit must teach driver-trainees about the importance of
managing the space surrounding the vehicle under various traffic
and road conditions.
Unit A1.2.6 Night Operation
This unit must instruct driver-trainees in the factors affecting
the safe operation of CMVs at night and in darkness. Additionally,
driver-trainees must be instructed in changes in vision,
communications, speed space management, and proper use of lights,
as needed, to deal with the special problems night driving
presents.
Unit A1.2.7 Extreme Driving Conditions
This unit must teach driver-trainees about the specific problems
presented by extreme driving conditions. The training provider will
emphasize the factors affecting the operation of CMVs in cold, hot,
and inclement weather and on steep grades and sharp curves. The
training provider must teach proper tire chaining procedures.
Section A1.3 Advanced Operating Practices
This section must introduce higher-level skills that can be
acquired only after the more fundamental skills and knowledge
taught in the prior two sections have been mastered. The training
providers must teach driver-trainees about the advanced skills
necessary to recognize potential hazards and must teach the
driver-trainees the procedures needed to handle a CMV when faced
with a hazard.
Unit A1.3.1 Hazard Perception
The unit must teach driver-trainees to recognize potential
hazards in the driving environment in order to reduce the severity
of the hazard and neutralize possible emergency situations. The
training providers must teach driver-trainees to identify road
conditions and other road users that are a potential threat to the
safety of the combination vehicle and suggest appropriate
adjustments. The instruction must emphasize hazard recognition,
visual search, adequate surveillance, and response to possible
emergency-producing situations encountered by CMV drivers in
various traffic situations. The training providers must teach
driver-trainees to recognize potential dangers and the safety
procedures that must be utilized while driving in construction/work
zones.
Unit A1.3.2 Skid Control/Recovery, Jackknifing, and Other
Emergencies
This unit must teach the causes of skidding and jackknifing and
techniques for avoiding and recovering from them. The training
providers must teach the importance of maintaining directional
control and bringing the CMV to a stop in the shortest possible
distance while operating over a slippery surface. This unit must
provide instruction in appropriate responses when faced with CMV
emergencies. This instruction must include evasive steering,
emergency braking, and off-road recovery, as well as the proper
response to brake failures, tire blowouts, hydroplaning, and
rollovers. The instruction must include a review of unsafe acts and
the role the acts play in producing or worsening hazardous
situations.
Unit A1.3.3 Railroad-Highway Grade Crossings
This unit must teach driver-trainees to recognize potential
dangers and the appropriate safety procedures to utilize at
railroad (RR)-highway grade crossings. This instruction must
include an overview of various Federal/State RR grade crossing
regulations, RR grade crossing environments, obstructed view
conditions, clearance around the tracks, and rail signs and
signals. The training providers must instruct driver-trainees that
railroads have personnel available (“Emergency Notification
Systems”) to receive notification of any information relating to an
unsafe condition at the RR-highway grade crossing or a disabled
vehicle or other obstruction blocking a railroad track at the
RR-highway grade crossing.
Section A1.4 Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions
This section must provide entry-level driver-trainees with
sufficient knowledge of the combination vehicle and its systems and
subsystems to ensure that they understand and respect their role in
vehicle inspection, operation, and maintenance and the impact of
those factors upon highway safety and operational efficiency.
Unit A1.4.1 Identification and Diagnosis of Malfunctions
This unit must teach driver-trainees to identify major
combination vehicle systems. The goal is to explain their function
and how to check all key vehicle systems, (e.g., engine, engine
exhaust auxiliary systems, brakes, drive train, coupling systems,
and suspension) to ensure their safe operation. Driver-trainees
must be provided with a detailed description of each system, its
importance to safe and efficient operation, and what is needed to
keep the system in good operating condition.
Unit A1.4.2 Roadside Inspections
This unit must instruct driver-trainees on what to expect during
a standard roadside inspection conducted by authorized personnel.
The training providers must teach driver-trainees on what vehicle
and driver violations are classified as out-of-service (OOS),
including the ramifications and penalties for operating a CMV when
subject to an OOS order as defined in section 390.5.
Unit A1.4.3 Maintenance
This unit must introduce driver-trainees to the basic servicing
and checking procedures for various engine and vehicle components
and to help develop their ability to perform preventive maintenance
and simple emergency repairs.
Section A1.5 Non-Driving Activities
This section must teach driver-trainees the activities that do
not involve actually operating the CMV.
Unit A1.5.1 Handling and Documenting Cargo
This unit must teach the basic theory of cargo weight
distribution, cargo securement on the vehicle, cargo covering, and
techniques for safe and efficient loading/unloading. The training
providers must teach driver-trainees the basic cargo security/cargo
theft prevention procedures. The training provider must teach
driver-trainees the basic information regarding the proper handling
and documentation of HM cargo.
Unit A1.5.2 Environmental Compliance Issues
This unit must teach driver-trainees to recognize environmental
hazards and issues related to the CMV and load, and also make the
driver-trainee aware that city, county, State, and Federal
requirements may apply to such circumstances.
Unit A1.5.3 Hours of Service Requirements
This unit must teach driver-trainees to understand that there
are different hours-of-service (HOS) requirements applicable to
different industries. The training providers must teach
driver-trainees all applicable HOS regulatory requirements. The
training providers must teach driver-trainees to complete a
Driver's Daily Log (electronic and paper), timesheet, and logbook
recap, as appropriate. The training providers must teach
driver-trainees the consequences (safety, legal, and personal) of
violating the HOS regulations, including the fines and penalties
imposed for these types of violations.
Unit A1.5.4 Fatigue and Wellness Awareness
This unit must teach driver-trainees about the issues and
consequences of chronic and acute driver fatigue and the importance
of staying alert. The training providers must teach driver-trainees
wellness and basic health maintenance information that affect a
driver's ability to safely operate a CMV.
Unit A1.5.5 Post-Crash Procedures
This unit must teach driver-trainees appropriate post-crash
procedures, including the requirement that the driver, if possible,
assess his or her physical condition immediately after the crash
and notify authorities or assign the task to other individuals at
the crash scene. The training providers must teach driver-trainees
how to protect the area; obtain emergency medical assistance; move
on-road vehicles off the road in minor crashes so as to avoid
subsequent crashes or injuries; engage flashers; place reflective
triangles and other warning devices for stopped vehicles; and
properly use a fire extinguisher, if necessary. The training
providers must instruct driver-trainees in post-crash testing
requirements related to controlled substances and alcohol.
Unit A1.5.6 External Communications
This unit must teach driver-trainees the value of effective
interpersonal communication techniques/skills to interact with
enforcement officials. The training providers must teach
driver-trainees the specifics of the roadside vehicle inspection
process, and what to expect during this activity. Driver-trainees
who are not English speakers must be instructed in FMCSA English
language proficiency requirements. The training providers must
teach driver-trainees the impact that violating Federal and state
regulations has on their driving records and their employing motor
carrier's records.
Unit A1.5.7 Whistleblower/Coercion
This unit must teach the driver-trainees about the right of an
employee to question the safety practices of an employer without
incurring the risk of losing a job or being subject to reprisals
simply for stating a safety concern. The training providers must
instruct driver-trainees in the whistleblower protection
regulations in 29 CFR part 1978. The training providers must teach
the procedures for reporting to FMCSA incidents of coercion from
motor carriers, shippers, receivers, or transportation
intermediaries.
Unit A1.5.8 Trip Planning
This unit must address the importance of and requirements for
planning routes and trips. This instruction must address planning
the safest route, planning for rest stops, heavy traffic areas,
railroad-highway grade crossing safe clearance and ground clearance
(i.e., “high center”), the importance of Federal and State
requirements on the need for permits, and vehicle size and weight
limitations. The training providers must teach driver-trainees in
the correct identification of restricted routes, the pros and cons
of Global Positioning System (GPS)/trip routing software, and the
importance of selecting fuel-efficient routes.
Unit A1.5.9 Drugs/Alcohol
This unit must teach driver-trainees the rules applicable to
controlled substances (including prescription drugs) and alcohol
use and testing related to the operation of a CMV.
Unit A1.5.10 Medical Requirements
This unit must teach driver-trainees the Federal rules on
medical certification, medical examination procedures, general
qualifications, responsibilities, and disqualifications based on
various offenses, orders, and loss of driving privileges (49 CFR
part 391, subparts B and E).
Behind-the-Wheel - Range
BTW range training must teach driving exercises related to basic
vehicle control skills and mastery of basic maneuvers, as covered
in §§ 383.111 and 383.113 of this chapter, necessary to operate the
vehicle safely. The training providers will teach activities in
this unit on a driving range as defined in § 380.605. The training
provider must teach “Get Out and Look” (GOAL) to the driver-trainee
as it applies to units A2.2-2.6.
Unit A2.1 Vehicle Inspection Pre-Trip/Enroute/Post-Trip
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in conducting
pre-trip and post-trip inspections as specified in §§ 392.7 and
396.11, including appropriate inspection locations. Instruction
must also be provided on enroute vehicle inspections.
Unit A2.2 Straight Line Backing
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in proper
techniques for performing various straight line backing maneuvers
to appropriate criteria/acceptable tolerances.
Unit A2.3 Alley Dock Backing (45/90 Degree)
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in proper
techniques for performing 45/90 degree alley dock maneuvers to
appropriate criteria/acceptable tolerances.
Unit A2.4 Off-Set Backing
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in proper
techniques for performing off-set right and left backing maneuvers
to appropriate criteria/acceptable tolerances.
Unit A2.5 Parallel Parking Blind Side
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in proper
techniques for performing parallel parking blind side
positions/maneuvers to appropriate criteria/acceptable
tolerances.
Unit A2.6 Parallel Parking Sight Side
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in proper
techniques for performing sight side parallel parking maneuvers to
appropriate criteria/acceptable tolerances.
Unit A2.7 Coupling and Uncoupling
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in proper
techniques for coupling, inspecting, and uncoupling combination
vehicle units, as applicable.
Behind-the-Wheel - Public Road
The instructor must engage in active two-way communication with
the driver-trainees during all active BTW public road training
sessions. Skills described in paragraphs A3.8 through 3.12 of this
section must be discussed during public road training, but not
necessarily performed. Driver-trainees are not required to
demonstrate proficiency in the skills described in paragraphs A3.8
through 3.12.
Unit A3.1 Vehicle Controls Including: Left Turn, Right Turns, Lane
Changes, Curves at Highway Speeds, and Entry and Exit on the
Interstate or Controlled Access Highway
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in proper
techniques for initiating vehicle movement, executing left and
right turns, changing lanes, navigating curves at speed, entry and
exit on the interstate or controlled access highway, and stopping
the vehicle in a controlled manner.
Unit A3.2 Shifting/Transmission
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in proper
techniques for performing safe and fuel-efficient shifting.
Unit A3.3 Communications/Signaling
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in proper
techniques for signaling intentions and effectively communicating
with other drivers.
Unit A3.4 Visual Search
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in proper
techniques for visually searching the road for potential hazards
and critical objects.
Unit A3.5 Speed and Space Management
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in proper habits
and techniques for adjusting and maintaining vehicle speed, taking
into consideration various factors such as traffic and road
conditions. Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in
maintaining proper speed to keep appropriate spacing between the
driver-trainee's CMV and other vehicles. Instruction must include
methods for calibrating safe following distances under an array of
conditions including traffic, weather, and CMV weight and
length.
Unit A3.6 Safe Driver Behavior
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in safe driver
behavior during their operation of the CMV.
Unit A3.7 Hours of Service (HOS) Requirements
Driver-trainees must demonstrate proficiency in the basic
activities required by the HOS regulations, such as completing a
Driver's Daily Log (electronic and paper), timesheet, and logbook
recap, as appropriate.
Unit A3.8 Hazard Perception
Driver-trainees must demonstrate their ability to recognize
potential hazards in the driving environment in time to reduce the
severity of the hazard and neutralize possible emergency
situations. Driver-trainees must demonstrate the ability to
identify road conditions and other road users that are a potential
threat to the safety of the combination vehicle and suggest
appropriate adjustments.
Unit A3.9 Railroad (RR)-Highway Grade Crossing
Driver-trainees must demonstrate the ability to recognize
potential dangers and to demonstrate appropriate safety procedures
when RR-highway grade crossings are reasonably available.
Unit A3.10 Night Operation
Driver-trainees must be familiar with how to operate a CMV
safely at night. Training providers must teach driver-trainees that
night driving presents specific circumstances that require
heightened attention on the part of the driver. Driver-trainees
must be taught special requirements for night vision,
communications, speed, space management, and proper use of
lights.
Unit A3.11 Extreme Driving Conditions
Driver-trainees must be familiar with the special risks created
by, and the heightened precautions required by, driving CMVs under
extreme driving conditions, such as heavy rain, high wind, high
heat, fog, snow, ice, steep grades, and sharp curves.
Driver-trainees must demonstrate their ability to recognize the
changes in basic driving habits needed to deal with the specific
challenges presented by these extreme driving conditions.
Unit A3.12 Skid Control/Recovery, Jackknifing, and Other
Emergencies
Driver-trainees must know the causes of skidding and jackknifing
and techniques for avoiding and recovering from them.
Driver-trainees must know how to maintain directional control and
bring the CMV to a stop in the shortest possible distance while
operating over a slippery surface. Driver-trainees must be familiar
with proper techniques for responding to CMV emergencies, such as
evasive steering, emergency braking, and off-road recovery. They
must also know how to prevent or respond to brake failures, tire
blowouts, hydroplaning, and rollovers.
Theory Instruction Upgrade Curriculum Section BA1.1 Basic Operation
This section must cover the interaction between driver-trainees
and the CMV. Driver-trainees will receive instruction in the
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) and will be
introduced to the basic CMV instruments and controls. Training
providers will teach driver-trainees the basic operating
characteristics of a CMV. This section must also teach
driver-trainees how to properly perform vehicle inspections,
control the motion of CMVs under various road and traffic
conditions, employ shifting and backing techniques, and properly
couple and uncouple combination vehicles. Driver-trainees must
familiarize themselves with the basic operating characteristics of
a CMV.
Unit BA1.1.1 Orientation
This unit must introduce driver-trainees to the combination
vehicle driver training curriculum and the components of a
combination vehicle. The training providers must teach the safety
fundamentals, essential regulatory requirements (e.g.,
overview of FMCSRs and Hazardous Materials Regulations), and
driver-trainees' responsibilities not directly related to CMV
driving, such as proper cargo securement. This unit must also cover
the ramifications, including driver disqualification provisions and
fines, for non-compliance with parts 380, 382, 383, and 390 through
399 of the FMCSRs. This unit must also include an overview of the
applicability of State and local laws relating to the safe
operation of the CMV, stopping at weigh stations/scales, hazard
awareness of vehicle size and weight limitations, low clearance
areas (e.g., CMV height restrictions), and bridge
formulas.
Unit BA1.1.2 Control Systems/Dashboard
This unit must introduce driver-trainees to vehicle instruments,
controls, and safety components. The training providers must teach
driver-trainees to read gauges and instruments correctly and the
proper use of vehicle safety components, including safety belts and
mirrors. The training providers must teach driver-trainees to
identify, locate, and explain the function of each of the primary
and secondary controls including those required for steering,
accelerating, shifting, braking systems (e.g., ABS,
hydraulic, air), as applicable, and parking.
Unit BA1.1.3 Pre- and Post-Trip Inspections
This unit must teach the driver-trainees to conduct pre-trip and
post-trip inspections as specified in §§ 392.7 and 396.11,
including appropriate inspection locations. Instruction must also
be provided on en route vehicle inspections.
Unit BA1.1.4 Basic Control
This unit must introduce basic vehicular control and handling as
it applies to combination vehicles. This unit must include
instruction addressing basic combination vehicle controls in areas
such as executing sharp left and right turns, centering the
vehicle, maneuvering in restricted areas, and entering and exiting
the interstate or controlled access highway.
Unit BA1.1.5 Shifting/Operating Transmissions
This unit must introduce shifting patterns and procedures to
driver-trainees to prepare them to safely and competently perform
basic shifting maneuvers. This unit must include training
driver-trainees to execute up and down shifting techniques on
multi-speed dual range transmissions, if appropriate. The training
providers must teach the importance of increased vehicle control
and improved fuel economy achieved by utilizing proper shifting
techniques.
Unit BA1.1.6 Backing and Docking
This unit must teach driver-trainees to back and dock the
combination vehicle safely. This unit must cover “Get Out and Look”
(GOAL), evaluation of backing/loading facilities, knowledge of
backing set ups, as well as instruction in how to back with the use
of spotters.
Unit BA1.1.7 Coupling and Uncoupling
This unit must provide instruction for driver-trainees to
develop the skills necessary to conduct the procedures for safe
coupling and uncoupling of combination vehicle units, as
applicable.
Section BA1.2 Safe Operating Procedures
This section must teach the practices required for safe
operation of the combination vehicle on the highway under various
road, weather, and traffic conditions. The training providers must
teach driver-trainees the Federal rules governing the proper use of
seat belt assemblies (§ 392.16).
Unit BA1.2.1 Visual Search
This unit must teach driver-trainees to visually search the road
for potential hazards and critical objects, including instruction
on recognizing distracted pedestrians or distracted drivers.
Unit BA1.2.2 Communication
This unit must instruct driver-trainees on how to communicate
their intentions to other road users. Driver-trainees must be
instructed in techniques for different types of communication on
the road, including proper use of headlights, turn signals,
four-way flashers, and horns. This unit must cover instruction in
proper utilization of eye contact techniques with other drivers,
bicyclists, and pedestrians.
Unit BA1.2.3 Distracted Driving
This unit must instruct driver-trainees in FMCSRs related to
distracted driving and other key driver distraction driving issues,
including improper cell phone use, texting, and use of in-cab
technology (e.g., §§ 392.80 and 392.82). This instruction
will include training in the following aspects: visual attention
(keeping eyes on the road); manual control (keeping hands on the
wheel); and cognitive awareness (keeping mind on the task and safe
operation of the CMV).
Unit BA1.2.4 Speed Management
This unit must teach driver-trainees how to manage speed
effectively in response to various road, weather, and traffic
conditions. The instruction must include methods for calibrating
safe following distances taking into account CMV braking distances
under an array of conditions including traffic, weather, and CMV
weight and length.
Unit BA1.2.5 Space Management
This unit must teach driver-trainees about the importance of
managing the space surrounding the vehicle under various traffic
and road conditions.
Unit BA1.2.6 Night Operation
This unit must instruct driver-trainees in the factors affecting
the safe operation of CMVs at night and in darkness. Additionally,
driver-trainees must be instructed in changes in vision,
communications, speed space management, and proper use of lights,
as needed, to deal with the special problems night driving
presents.
Unit BA1.2.7 Extreme Driving Conditions
This unit must teach driver-trainees about the specific problems
presented by extreme driving conditions. The training provider will
emphasize the factors affecting the operation of CMVs in cold, hot,
and inclement weather and on steep grades and sharp curves. The
training provider must teach proper tire chaining procedures.
Section BA1.3 Advanced Operating Practices
This section must introduce higher-level skills that can be
acquired only after the more fundamental skills and knowledge
taught in the prior two sections have been mastered. The training
providers must teach driver-trainees about the advanced skills
necessary to recognize potential hazards and must teach the
driver-trainees the procedures needed to handle a CMV when faced
with a hazard.
Unit BA1.3.1 Hazard Perception
The unit must teach driver-trainees to recognize potential
hazards in the driving environment in order to reduce the severity
of the hazard and neutralize possible emergency situations. The
training providers must teach driver-trainees to identify road
conditions and other road users that are a potential threat to the
safety of the combination vehicle and suggest appropriate
adjustments. The instruction must emphasize hazard recognition,
visual search, adequate surveillance, and response to possible
emergency-producing situations encountered by CMV drivers in
various traffic situations. The training providers must teach
driver-trainees to recognize potential dangers and the safety
procedures that must be utilized while driving in construction/work
zones.
Unit BA1.3.2 Skid Control/Recovery, Jackknifing, and Other
Emergencies
This unit must teach the causes of skidding and jackknifing and
techniques for avoiding and recovering from them. The training
providers must teach the importance of maintaining directional
control and bringing the CMV to a stop in the shortest possible
distance while operating over a slippery surface. This unit must
provide instruction in appropriate responses when faced with CMV
emergencies. This instruction must include evasive steering,
emergency braking, and off-road recovery, as well as the proper
response to brake failures, tire blowouts, hydroplaning, and
rollovers. The instruction must include a review of unsafe acts and
the role the acts play in producing or worsening hazardous
situations.
Unit BA1.3.3 Railroad-Highway Grade Crossings
This unit must teach driver-trainees to recognize potential
dangers and the appropriate safety procedures to utilize at
railroad (RR)-highway grade crossings. This instruction must
include an overview of various Federal/State RR grade crossing
regulations, RR grade crossing environments, obstructed view
conditions, clearance around the tracks, and rail signs and
signals. The training providers must instruct driver-trainees that
railroads have personnel available (“Emergency Notification
Systems”) to receive notification of any information relating to an
unsafe condition at the RR-highway grade crossing or a disabled
vehicle or other obstruction blocking a railroad track at the
RR-highway grade crossing.
Section BA1.4 Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions
This section must provide entry-level driver-trainees with
sufficient knowledge of the combination vehicle and its systems and
subsystems to ensure that they understand and respect their role in
vehicle inspection, operation, and maintenance and the impact of
those factors upon highway safety and operational efficiency.
Unit BA1.4.1 Identification and Diagnosis of Malfunctions
This unit must teach driver-trainees to identify major
combination vehicle systems. The goal is to explain their function
and how to check all key vehicle systems, (e.g., engine,
engine exhaust auxiliary systems, brakes, drive train, coupling
systems, and suspension) to ensure their safe operation.
Driver-trainees must be provided with a detailed description of
each system, its importance to safe and efficient operation, and
what is needed to keep the system in good operating condition.
Unit BA1.4.2 Roadside Inspections
This unit must instruct driver-trainees on what to expect during
a standard roadside inspection conducted by authorized personnel.
The training providers must teach driver-trainees on what vehicle
and driver violations are classified as out-of-service (OOS),
including the ramifications and penalties for operating a CMV when
subject to an OOS order as defined in section 390.5.
Unit BA1.4.3 Maintenance
This unit must introduce driver-trainees to the basic servicing
and checking procedures for various engine and vehicle components
and to help develop their ability to perform preventive maintenance
and simple emergency repairs.
Section BA1.5 Non-Driving Activities
This section must teach driver-trainees the activities that do
not involve actually operating the CMV.
Unit BA1.5.1 Hours of Service Requirements
This unit must teach driver-trainees to understand that there
are different hours-of-service (HOS) requirements applicable to
different industries. The training providers must teach
driver-trainees all applicable HOS regulatory requirements. The
training providers must teach driver-trainees to complete a
Driver's Daily Log (electronic and paper), timesheet, and logbook
recap, as appropriate. The training providers must teach
driver-trainees the consequences (safety, legal, and personal) of
violating the HOS regulations, including the fines and penalties
imposed for these types of violations.
Unit BA1.5.2 Fatigue and Wellness Awareness
This unit must teach driver-trainees about the issues and
consequences of chronic and acute driver fatigue and the importance
of staying alert. The training providers must teach driver-trainees
wellness and basic health maintenance information that affect a
driver's ability to safely operate a CMV.
[81 FR 88794, Dec. 8, 2016, as amended at 83 FR 22875, May 17,
2018; 84 FR 8040, Mar. 6, 2019]