A Maryland Transit Administration driver in Baltimore City. (MDOT)
Our nation’s transportation industry is a vital component of a well-functioning economy. Unfortunately, the supply of licensed truck drivers has not kept pace with growing demand. According to the American Journal of Transportation the nation will have 160,000 unfilled driving positions by 2030.
To help address this driver shortage, the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) has implemented several initiatives to assist candidates considering a career in commercial driving:
CDL Knowledge Testing in Spanish: In May 2024, the MVA started offering the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) knowledge test in Spanish as part of its continued focus on expanding customer service offerings to be more inclusive, accessible and convenient for the State of Maryland’s diverse communities. The new version of the CDL knowledge test permit individuals, whose primary language is Spanish, to become licensed school and truck drivers while maintaining rigorous testing requirements. The skills test and pre-trip inspection will continue to be administered in English.
12-month CDL Permits: During the 2023 legislative session, the MVA was instrumental in working with the General Assembly of Maryland to extend the CDL learner’s permit term from six to twelve months. This measure gives candidates an additional six months to complete their testing requirements and matches updated federal regulations. Additionally, CDL holders may now use their Medical Examiner’s Certificate to satisfy their vision certification requirement when renewing their license.
Modernized CDL Skills Test: When applicants are ready to take their CDL test, they will take a streamlined version as Maryland implemented a modernized commercial driver’s license skills test. One of the main changes involves the “pre-trip inspection,” which was reduced to around 50 items or less – depending on the vehicle – compared to the previous requirement of more than 100 items. The test focuses on knowledge and contains items a driver would typically experience on the job while still prioritizing road safety.
myMVA Services: Once a CDL applicant obtains a license, they have access to an array of online services while they’re on the road. CDL holders with proper documentation on file can order a correction or duplicate copy of their license through their myMVA account or at a 24-hour self-service kiosk.
These are just a few examples of the MVA’s commitment to helping Maryland residents achieve their career goals and supporting the growth of our community’s workforce. All these changes have created more opportunities for Marylanders to pursue their CDL and MVA will continue to find additional solutions for those attempting to obtain a CDL without compromising safety.
MVA Administrator Chrissy Nizer spoke with Louis Campion, president of the Maryland Motor Truck Association, during an episode of the Conversation with Chrissy podcast. Watch the interview to learn more about the various opportunities available for Maryland residents interested in acquiring their CDL and various interesting aspects of the trucking industry.
John Lazarou is Director of Media Relations at the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration.
