FMCSA Revokes Nine ELDs Effective February 12, 2026
FMCSA Announces ELD Revocations On February 12, 2026, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) removed nine electronic logging devices (ELDs) from its Registered Devices list. The action was due to the providers’ failure to meet minimum technical requirements under 49 CFR Part 395, Appendix A to Subpart B. Revoked ELD Devices The revoked devices […]
How Long Does CDL Training Take? Timeline for Class A vs. Class B Licenses
Class A training (tractor-trailers) typically lasts 3–8 weeks (160+ ELDT hours), while Class B (straight trucks) is shorter at 2–6 weeks. In 2026, programs balance classroom, range, and road time for safe, compliant drivers. Class A Timeline Breakdown Class B Timeline Shorter focus on single-unit vehicles; often 2–4 weeks. Factors: Full-time vs. part-time, school vs. […]
How Much Do Truck Drivers Make in 2026? Salary Breakdown by Experience and Route
Truck driver salaries in 2026 reflect strong demand amid shortages, with national averages ranging from $60,000–$82,000 annually (higher for experienced/specialized roles). Entry-level pay starts around $50,000–$70,000, while top earners exceed $100,000 with bonuses, overtime, and safe-mile incentives. Pay varies by route, experience, endorsements, and company—clean records unlock the highest opportunities. Salary Breakdown by Key Factors […]
What Happens If You Fail a DOT Drug Test? Clearinghouse Guide for CDL Holders in 2026
Failing a DOT drug or alcohol test (positive result or refusal) immediately places you in “prohibited” status in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, barring you from safety-sensitive functions like driving. In 2026, states enforce mandatory CDL downgrades for prohibited drivers until Return-to-Duty (RTD) completion, with violations visible for 5 years or until cleared. Oral […]
Winter Driving Tips for Truck Drivers: Handling Snow and Ice in 2026
Winter conditions in 2026 amplify risks—black ice, reduced traction, longer stopping distances (up to 10x on ice), and fatigue from cold/dark hours. FMCSA HOS rules still apply strictly, but pilots may offer break flexibility for delays. Essential Winter Preparation and Driving Tips Plan routes for weather; delay if severe. CDL Consultants: Defense for Winter Violations […]
Switching from OTR to Local Truck Driving Jobs: Pros, Cons, and Tips for 2026
Many CDL drivers begin with over-the-road (OTR) for experience and higher miles, but switching to local routes offers better work-life balance in 2026’s market, where home time and predictability are increasingly valued amid fatigue concerns and family priorities. Local jobs (home daily, shorter hauls) suit drivers after 6–24 months OTR. Pros of Switching to Local […]
Owner-Operator Trucking: How to Start Your Own Business with a CDL
Becoming an owner‑operator is one of the most popular “trucking business ideas,” but it’s also one of the easiest ways to go broke if you guess at the numbers. CDL Consultants specializes in helping drivers move from company driver to business owner with a clear plan, realistic budgets, and compliance handled from day one. Know […]
Truck Driver Fatigue Management: Hours of Service Rules Explained
Every year, fatigue quietly causes more close calls and costly mistakes than most drivers like to admit—and CDL Consultants treats fatigue as a business risk as much as a safety risk. Understanding Hours of Service (HOS) is step one; using those rules to build a realistic fatigue management plan is where CDL Consultants helps fleets […]
Women in Trucking: Career Advice for Female CDL Drivers
Women are still underrepresented behind the wheel, but more are choosing trucking as a long-term, well-paying career—and CDL Consultants is helping them navigate the road from “new driver” to confident professional. With the right support, female drivers can turn a CDL into a flexible, resilient career that fits real life, not just the job description. […]
Trump’s Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Seeks Nominations for Critical Motor Carrier Advisory Groups
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEFriday, January 23, 2026Contact: fmcsa.publicaffairs@dot.gov USDOT Calls on Industry, Safety, and Medical Experts to Help Shape Future of Transportation WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy today announced the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is seeking nominations for qualified individuals to serve on two key federal advisory […]