Younger Drivers Cleared to Get Class A Commercial License in New York

There may be a less wrinkled face behind the wheel of the big rig that passes you on the interstate in the near future.

New York State Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo says Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a law she introduced to create a Young Adult Commercial Driver’s License Class "A" program for 18 to 20-year-olds.

Currently New York State Law allows 18 to 20-year-old drivers to obtain a CDL Class "B" license to drive within state lines, however they cannot apply for a Class "A" license until they are 21.  The new law allows younger drivers to get the Class “A” license to drive tractor-trailers and other large vehicles following strict training and safety guidelines.

The Endwell Democrat says the legislation helps to address the shortage of truck drivers by attracting younger drivers at an integral point in their lives where they are choosing a career.

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The bill was introduced in the State Senate by Senator Tim Kennedy, a Democrat representing the 63^rd District in the Buffalo area.

According to a news release from Lupardo’s office, New York is the last state in the country to allow younger drivers the opportunity to get their Class “A” CDL before the age of 21.