PAM Transport wants commercial learner-permit holders who have passed their driving skills tests to begin driving without a licensed supervisor sitting in the front passenger seat while they wait for their license credentials. A qualified commercial driver's license holder would still have to be inside the vehicle.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration published the application for comment October 27. This is a request, not an approved exemption.
What PAM proposes
PAM seeks a five-year exemption from the front-seat requirement. It estimates that approximately 500 to 700 permit holders each year would operate under the proposed exemption.
The company says this would let newly tested drivers participate in revenue-generating trips back to their home states to obtain their commercial driver's license documents. PAM argues that the waiting period delays productive employment and can create financial hardship. Those are the applicant's claims, not measured benefits established by FMCSA in this notice.
PAM says drivers would need a valid learner's permit and state driver's license, proof of passing the skills test, required endorsements and medical qualifications. They could not be subject to an out-of-service order or suspended driving privileges. A properly qualified licensed driver would remain physically present in the vehicle, though not necessarily in the passenger seat.
Safety review remains open
Current rules generally require the licensed driver to sit next to the learner-permit holder and maintain observation and direct supervision. PAM asserts its proposed conditions would provide equivalent or greater safety.
FMCSA says it will review the application, safety analyses and public comments before granting or denying the exemption. It must publish its decision. This notice does not predict that outcome.
How to comment
Comments must be received on or before November 27, 2026, identified with docket FMCSA-2026-3466. The notice gives online, mail, delivery and fax options and asks commenters to use only one method and explain their recommendations.
DOT warns that public comments are posted without changes, including personal information provided. The notice separately explains how to mark and submit confidential business information outside the public docket.