This bill requires the Correction and Motor Vehicles departments (DOC and DMV, respectively) to take certain actions to make the commercial driver’s license (CDL) knowledge test available to incarcerated people who are (1) reentering the community within six months and (2) not subject to “disqualification” from driving a commercial vehicle or a driving privilege suspension, revocation, or cancellation in any state.

Specifically, the bill requires the DOC commissioner to make available, as necessary, suitable space and technology for (1) CDL test preparation provided by or in conjunction with a regional workforce development board and (2) test administration. It also requires the DMV commissioner to assign personnel and provide other resources, as necessary, to administer the CDL test in writing or electronically at corrections facilities that the DOC and DMV commissioners deem appropriate. The commissioners must do these things by January 1, 2023.

Under the bill, “disqualification” means the withdrawal of the privilege of driving a commercial vehicle due to (1) operating privilege suspension, revocation, or cancellation; (2) a determination that a person is no longer qualified to drive a commercial vehicle under federal standards; or (3) specified convictions or administrative actions (e.g., driving under the influence, using a motor vehicle in the commission of a felony).