Short answer
Often yes, but it is harder. Federal rules set a minimum age of 21 for interstate drivers (49 CFR 391.11), Texas allows intrastate drivers from age 18 (37 TAC 4.12), and anyone getting a Class A or B CDL for the first time since February 7, 2022 must complete entry-level driver training. Beyond those legal floors, each trucking market sets its own experience guidelines, and many prefer drivers with prior verifiable commercial driving.
- A fleet that wants to hire newer drivers does best with a structured training and supervision program it can show the underwriter.
The legal floor
- Interstate: 49 CFR 391.11(b)(1) requires a driver to be at least 21 and, under (b)(3), able by experience, training, or both to safely operate the type of vehicle driven.
- Texas intrastate: 37 Texas Administrative Code 4.12(b)(5) sets the minimum age for an intrastate driver at 18.
- Entry-level driver training: FMCSA's rule, effective February 7, 2022, requires first-time Class A or B CDL applicants (and certain upgrades and endorsements) to complete training from a provider on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry before testing.
These are the minimums to drive. They are not insurance rules.
What underwriters look at
Insurance eligibility is set market by market. Underwriters usually review each driver's age, years of verifiable CDL experience, experience in the same type of equipment, and motor vehicle record. Some markets will not add drivers below their experience guideline; others will, with conditions. See what drivers trucking insurance can cover.
Experience in a dump truck does not always count the same as experience in a tractor-trailer, and hazmat or tanker work tends to draw stricter driver guidelines.
Making a newer driver insurable
- Put training in writing: ride-along hours, a road test, and a probation period with limited lanes or equipment.
- Keep a complete driver qualification file from day one.
- Pair the driver with a mentor and document check rides.
- Ask before you hire. Submit the driver's MVR and experience to your agent before the start date, not after an accident.
If you are a new authority whose owner is also a newer driver, see new authority truck insurance.
Common questions
Can an 18-year-old drive for my Texas company?
Texas allows intrastate drivers from 18. Interstate driving requires 21 under federal rules. Whether your insurer will accept a driver that young is a separate underwriting question.
Will a newer driver raise my premium?
It can, depending on the market and how the policy is rated. Some policies rate drivers individually; others price the fleet overall. Ask before you hire.
Does entry-level training count as experience?
It is the legal requirement to get the CDL. Underwriters typically look for driving experience after licensing in addition to training.
Sources
- 49 CFR 391.11, General qualifications of drivers (Cornell LII). Minimum age 21; experience or training to operate the vehicle safely.
- 37 Tex. Admin. Code 4.12, Exemptions and Exceptions (Cornell LII). Texas intrastate driver minimum age of 18.
- FMCSA, Training Provider Registry launch announcement. Entry-level driver training requirements effective February 7, 2022.
This page explains insurance, not law. Have your attorney review indemnity and contract language; our job is making the insurance match it.