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COVID-19 Coverage

COVID-19 waivers extended for CDL, CLP holders through May

Feb. 18, 2021

While this waiver began in March 2020, FMCSA urges truck drivers to renew their licenses and certifications as soon as 'practicable' as the waiver expires on May 31.

Catharine Conway

Following its extension of COVID-related hours of service, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is also allowing states to extend truck drivers’ commercial driver's license (CDL), as well as commercial learner’s permit (CLP). The previous waiver was set to expire on Feb. 28 but is now effective starting March 1 through May 31.

According to the FMCSA, the COVID-19 public health emergency has caused states to experience greater than normal employee absences, reduced hours of operation, or closed offices of their State Driver Licensing Agencies (SDLAs) in response to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 safety protocols.

“Many CDL and CLP holders may be unable to renew their CDLs and CLPs or provide medical certificates to their SDLA,” the waiver explained. “In addition, due to limited operations or backlogs, drivers may be unable to obtain appointments for physical examinations with medical examiners to comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs).”

While this waiver began in March 2020, FMCSA urges truck drivers to renew their licenses and certifications as soon as “practicable” as the waiver expires on May 31.

About the Author

Catharine Conway | Digital Editor

Catharine Conway previously wrote for FleetOwner with a Master of Science in Publishing degree and more than seven years’ experience in the publishing and editorial industries. Based in Stamford, Conn., she was critical to the coordination of any and all digital content organization and distribution through various FleetOwner and American Trucker channels, including website, newsletters, and social media.