For years, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation have explored whether farmers should be mandated to hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) when handling larger trucks. Thanks to advocacy from state legislators and farm groups, no new regulations were enacted. Nevertheless, obtaining a CDL can offer advantages for farmers. Most states currently permit farmers, family members, or employees to transport agricultural goods, machinery, and supplies within state borders or up to 150 air miles across state lines without needing a CDL. However, exemptions do not apply if vehicles are used in for-hire operations or require hazardous material placards. This article delves into the complexities surrounding CDL requirements for farmers and highlights the benefits of obtaining one.
In certain situations, the exemption from requiring a CDL may not always align with modern farming practices. For instance, Krystina Dowler, a senior transportation enforcement investigator for Missouri MoDot Motor Carrier Services, explained that hauling grain for a neighbor, even without direct payment but receiving reimbursement for fuel, could technically qualify as a for-hire operation. Moreover, variations exist between states regarding CDL exemptions. In Kansas, a regular driver's license suffices for vehicles up to 26,000 pounds, whereas in Missouri, most farm trucks necessitate a Class E license regardless of weight limits. The challenge arises when farmers haul grain long distances to markets or travel out of state for equipment purchases, often surpassing the 150-mile limit.
Dave Pfiffner, former director of the Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) Transportation Institute in central Iowa, emphasized that possessing a CDL enhances flexibility for farmers. DMACC offers various training programs, including a six-week commercial vehicle operator course, CDL refresher sessions, defensive driving, and test preparation for experienced tractor-trailer operators seeking certification. Pfiffner noted that while many graduates pursue careers as over-the-road truckers, some farmers enroll to expand their commodity-hauling opportunities during off-seasons or secure seasonal employment with trucking firms. Additionally, DMACC provides classroom-based hazmat endorsement courses for those interested in transporting chemicals or fertilizers.
The cost structure for these programs varies. An entry-level course precedes the full program at $140, while the comprehensive six-week, 240-hour program costs $4,760 and includes approximately 60 hours of practical driving instruction. Other specialized courses, such as CDL test prep, come with separate pricing. Typically, CDL testing fees range from $75 to $100, contingent on the state, required endorsements, and potential credit for remaining time on an existing license.
Military personnel and veterans who recently operated military equivalents of commercial motor vehicles benefit from a skills test waiver when applying for a CDL, provided they apply within one year of leaving active duty. Despite this, knowledge-based written tests remain mandatory for service members. Beyond exemptions for specific operators like legitimate farm-to-market participants, spouses, children, parents, siblings, and extended family members operating farm-related vehicles also qualify under certain conditions.
As farming evolves, so too does the relevance of a CDL. While exemptions persist for many traditional farm activities, the increasing complexity of agricultural logistics underscores the value of enhanced qualifications. Whether for expanded business opportunities or improved safety standards, obtaining a CDL represents a strategic decision for contemporary farmers navigating today's dynamic transportation landscape.