It is highly recommended that companies consult their insurance company before implementing any student driver programs. Insurance companies may approve or disapprove the exposures associated with these programs. In any event, it is a good idea to let them know your intentions. The insurance company may even be able to provide assistance in developing the program. We recommend contacting the Professional Truck Driver Institute, Inc. (PTDI) for additional guidance in developing a student driver training program.
The success of a student driver training program can be affected by many elements, including but not limited to:
- Thoroughness of the basic driver training and instructor effectiveness.
- Student selection.
- OJT (on-the-job training), content, length, and instructor effectiveness.
- Student evaluation and corrective training.
- Continuing education and evaluation.
On-the-Job Training (OJT) We recommend that the student on-the-job training program meet the standards outlined in the PTDI Student Finisher Program, as a minimum.
Student Evaluation Driver trainers should complete written detailed evaluations of students’ progress at regular intervals throughout the program.
Student Continuing Education Student drivers should receive short training sessions every 30-45 days after the student begins solo driving. This training should continue through at least the first six months of the student driver’s solo driving.
