Wyoming’s Big Move: Faster, Easier Permits for Truckers on the Way!

Wyoming’s Big Move: Faster, Easier Permits for Truckers on the Way!

State Also Takes Tougher Stance on Young CDL Drivers With DUIs

Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon has signed two laws that will take effect on July 1, aimed at simplifying the commercial permitting process while introducing stricter regulations for commercial drivers.

House Bill 0132 expands permitting options for haulers of hay, forestry products, agricultural machinery, and prefabricated structures. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Scott Smith and backed by other Republican lawmakers, extends permit durations from 90 days to one year, increasing fees from $50 to $200. The change is expected to reduce bureaucracy and make it easier for truckers to operate without frequent renewals. However, a state analysis predicts a $527,000 annual reduction in Highway Fund revenue due to fewer required permits.

For example, drivers transporting hay year-round will now have the option to pay a single $200 annual fee instead of renewing their permit multiple times a year. Similarly, shed haulers, who currently require a new permit each time a load changes, will be able to obtain a single $400 permit for the entire period.

In addition to permit reforms, House Bill 0028 introduces updates to Wyoming’s commercial driver’s license (CDL) regulations. The state will align its policies with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s “Even Exchange” program, allowing qualified military drivers to bypass the knowledge test when applying for a CDL. Wyoming will also exempt military CDL holders from the driving skills test, joining 21 other states with similar policies.

Further provisions in the CDL law impose stricter penalties for violations, including a mandatory retest for individuals found to have fraudulently obtained a CDL. Failure to retest within Wyoming will result in a one-year disqualification from commercial driving.

Additional safety regulations will prohibit truck drivers from texting, writing messages, or using handheld electronic devices while operating a commercial vehicle. The state is also increasing penalties for CDL holders under 21 who are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), whether in a commercial truck or personal vehicle. Unlike before, their DUI conviction will now remain on their permanent record instead of being automatically cleared at age 21.

These legislative changes aim to make trucking operations in Wyoming more efficient while reinforcing road safety for all drivers.

source:https://www.ttnews.com

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