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New Jersey CDL School Challenges FMCSA Emergency Shutdown Order

Start CDL Inc., a Cinnaminson, New Jersey-based commercial driver training school, is contesting its removal from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's training registry. The school filed suit in District Court for the District of New Jersey against the Department of Transportation, FMCSA and Administrator Derek D. Barrs, seeking reinstatement. The agency's Oct. 31 notice eliminated Start CDL and more than 100 other providers from its registry, citing safety risks. FMCSA based the emergency shutdown on six trainees who received English-language-proficiency violations during roadside inspections after certification. The agency determined the drivers lacked required proficiency when certified, inferring material deficiencies and willful disregard. Start CDL's complaint questions the evidence, noting discrepancies including inspection records concerning different drivers and date inconsistencies in assessment documentation. The action reflects broader federal crackdowns on CDL training providers.