ROUTE Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Hageman, Harriet M. [R-WY-At Large]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Feb 2, 2026
Bottom line
The ROUTE Act seeks to address the commercial truck driver shortage by allowing qualified young adults aged 18-20 to operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce within a limited radius and under specific safety protocols.
What it actually does
This bill, known as the ROUTE Act, amends federal law to permit commercial drivers aged 18 to 20 who hold an intrastate commercial driver's license (CDL) to operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce. This limited operation is restricted to a 150 air-mile radius from their normal work reporting location, with strict hours-of-service requirements mandating a return to base within 14 hours and 10 consecutive hours off-duty. The bill aims to create a pathway for younger drivers to gain interstate experience under controlled conditions.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill will help alleviate the severe shortage of commercial truck drivers by allowing a new cohort of already licensed and trained young adults to participate in interstate commerce, albeit under strict safety parameters. They contend that the current age restriction for interstate driving is arbitrary and prevents skilled individuals from entering a critical workforce, especially for shorter-haul routes, thereby hindering supply chain efficiency.
Opponents contend
Opponents may raise concerns about potential safety risks associated with allowing younger drivers, who statistically have less experience, to operate commercial vehicles across state lines, even with the proposed limitations. They might argue that the 150 air-mile radius still involves significant interstate travel and that the focus should remain on driver training and retention for older, more experienced drivers to ensure maximum road safety.
The bill is very short and straightforward, making it highly accessible for any reader to understand its core provisions quickly.
Section 2, amending Chapter 313 of title 49, United States Code, by adding section 31318.
Limited Interstate Operation for Drivers Under 21
This provision creates an exception to the current federal age requirement (21 years old) for interstate commercial motor vehicle operation. It permits drivers aged 18 to 20, who already possess an intrastate commercial driver's license, to cross state lines within a 150 air-mile radius of their home base. The bill mandates that these young drivers must return to their normal work reporting location within 14 consecutive hours and then take at least 10 consecutive hours off duty before their next shift, ensuring regulated rest periods.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision directly addresses the trucking industry's workforce challenges by tapping into a younger demographic already trained and licensed for commercial driving within their state. They emphasize the strict limitations on radius and hours-of-service as crucial safeguards to ensure safety while providing valuable experience that can lead to long-term careers.
Critics contend
Critics contend that despite the limitations, allowing drivers under 21 to operate commercial vehicles in interstate commerce could compromise road safety, citing general statistics about younger drivers' higher accident rates. They might argue that the experience gained from intrastate driving is not fully equivalent to the varied demands and complexities of interstate routes, even within a limited radius.
Tradeoffs
This provision navigates the tension between the economic need to address a critical driver shortage and public safety concerns related to driver experience. It attempts to mitigate potential risks by imposing geographical and hours-of-service restrictions, creating a controlled environment for younger drivers to gain interstate experience rather than a full deregulation.