Commercial Drivers’ License Even Exchange Bill: The estimated commercial driver shortage is over 80,000 drivers with the potential to grow to over 160,000 by the year 2028. SB 105/HB 88 by Senator Bo Watson and Representative Pat Marsh enables Tennessee to implement the “Even Exchange Program” as allowed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This program allows qualified military personnel,which includes activity duty, reservist, and national guard with driving experience, to be exempt from the knowledge test required to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL). FMCSA establishes the minimum standards that each state must follow in administering the program. Tennessee will join 18 other states that have implemented the program. TSRA was an active member of the coalition lead by the Beverage Association of Tennessee in support of this legislation. This new law will help alleviate the shortage of commercial drivers. This bill passed and became known as Public Chapter No. 422 in 2023.
