CDL Training Schools May Have To Switch Gears

CDL Training Schools May Have To Switch Gears If the law in Ohio is an indication of the future, CDL training schools may have to switch gears–literally and both figuratively.New restrictionsin Ohio went into effect on July 1 (2015) requiring CDL drivers to have received training to drive manual transmission vehicles. This can be a problem for training schools that use fleets made up exclusively of automatic transmission trucks. To be clear, the new restrictions do not prevent drivers from operating automatic transmission trucks in the absence of manual transmission training. It only stipulates that someone who has not received the necessary training cannot drive a truck with a manual transmission. The American Trucking Association's P. Sean Garney says that drivers that have never been trained with manual transmissions may not understand the complexities of properly shifting gears. Any veteran truck driver knows the kinds of problems this can cause. Improper shifting can lead to stalling, excessively slow acceleration, accidents with other vehicles, and costly engine damage. Trucking Companies Must Choose It is not clear whether other states will follow Ohio's lead for truck licensing. However, if they do, trucking companies will have to decide how they want to handle driver recruitment in the future.