Indiana & Wyoming Reduce HME Driver Age

In most states, you must be 21 years old to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) with a Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) for intrastate commerce – operating solely within the boundaries of a single state. This has long put the propane industry at a competitive disadvantage, as other industries that require a CDL – but not an HME – are able to engage with and hire workers ages 18-20. By the time these workers turn 21, they are already professionally invested in another industry.

Recently, both Indiana and Wyoming passed bills that will allow CDL holders, ages 18-20, to apply for and obtain an HME for intrastate commerce. Again, only operating within the confines of one state. This will greatly expand the applicant pool for drivers of bobtails, transports, and cylinder trucks. Importantly, it will allow propane companies in these states to engage younger workers before they are hired by a competing CDL interest. As the propane industry continues to confront an aging workforce, these types of state initiatives are invaluable.

Both the Indiana Propane Gas Association, led by State Executive Matt Solak, and the Rocky Mountain Propane Gas Association, led by State Executive Tom Clark, were engaged on these efforts in their respective states.

For more information, contact NPGA’s Director of State Affairs, Jacob Peterson.