Propane Industry Adapts to FMCSA Regulations with ACE Services for Driver Training

Regulations governing entry-level driver training went into effect last year on February 7, 2022, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Candidates for a Class A or Class B commercial driver’s license (CDL) or a hazardous materials endorsement (HME) must adhere to these rules.

The Administrative Compliance Experts (ACE) Services program was created by the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) and the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) to ensure adherence to these regulations.

Regarding complying with the rules, ACE Services offers assistance to propane marketers. The program aids drivers in completing theory classes and hands-on training while also facilitating filing of paperwork and information to FMCSA.

The required documentation can be submitted to FMCSA on behalf of CDL and HME applicants by NPGA since it is an FMCSA-registered training provider. The entire on-road community, outside of the propane industry, is prioritized for compliance by this fee-based program.

Andrea Pavon, senior manager of ACE Services at NPGA, said, “The program’s first year went above and beyond our expectations. Our ACE Services entry-level driver training programs have attracted more than 2,000 drivers. The over-the-road community based outside the propane industry is starting to participate more frequently, and we have hundreds of propane companies using ACE Services across the U.S.

The ACE program is available to propane retailers, who can sign up and choose the course that best suits their needs at npga.org/ace. Upon completing the enrollment process, the program is fully accessible online.

According to Pavon, the chosen course package and the applicant’s NPGA membership status affect pricing. It is more affordable than enrolling drivers in outside driving schools.

The propane industry has praised ACE Services since it first began operations. The members value the convenience of completing the requirements for entry-level driver training without having to attend the training materials physically.

ACE Services provide regulatory compliance advice, and drivers can access the online theory training course through PERC, continues Pavon. Drivers can now receive on-site driving instructions thanks to this.

The NPGA is steadfast in its commitment to tracking legal requirements and modifying the program. The association also hopes to broaden the program’s appeal to assist the over-the-road community and the propane industry.

ACE Services has a bright future, says Pavon in her conclusion. With the help of this program, we hope to keep advancing the propane industry.