J.J. Keller Offers Entry-Level Driver Training Checklist as FMCSA Targets ELDT Providers
New Certification Program for Mastering Federal Motor Carrier Regulations
J.J. Keller is offering new in-depth training and certification on Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), as the Trump administration's DOT focuses on trucking safety enforcement.

A new training and certification program for trucking safety professionals focuses on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
HDT Graphic
With the Trump administration's Department of Transportation focusing on regulatory compliance for motor carriers and drivers, it's a good idea to make sure your trucking fleet's safety professionals have a good grasp of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs).
J.J. Keller is now offering a training and certification program for fleet professionals for mastering the FMCSRs.
The Certified Transportation Regulatory Expert (CTRE) Certification Program provides in-depth training designed to make participants more effective at improving trucking fleet compliance and protecting their truck drivers and assets.
More Than Memorizing Motor Carrier Regulations
The program goes beyond topic memorization by engaging participants in live drills, interactive lessons, tabletop exercises, and audit simulations that show how to apply the FMCSRs in real-world scenarios.
The program’s curriculum covers:
FMCSR Foundations: Structure and interpretation of regulations, DOT registration, insurance and recordkeeping requirements
Driver Qualification and Drug/Alcohol Testing: Building compliant DQ files, Drug and Alcohol Testing Clearinghouse protocols and audit exposure prevention
Driving and Hours-of-Service Rules: Proper use of electronic logging devices, log audits, HOS exceptions and falsification prevention
Vehicle and Hazmat Compliance: Maintenance programs, driver vehicle inspection reports, cargo securement and advanced safety technologies
Enforcement and Audit Prep: CSA scoring, safety ratings and strategies for responding to Notices of Violations and Claims
The five-day, in-person program is held at J.J. Keller’s corporate headquarters in Neenah, Wisconsin, and includes small-group instruction, access to compliance resources, ongoing support, and updates to stay ahead of regulatory changes.
The J.J. Keller CTRE Certification is valid for three years, with recertification available via a remote exam.
Practical Strategies to Reduce Risk
“Fleet professionals are under constant pressure to maintain compliance while managing operational demands,” said Dustin Kufahl, vice president of consulting and training services at J.J. Keller, in a news release.
“The CTRE Certification Program gives them the tools, knowledge and confidence to not only meet the regulatory requirements, but to excel as leaders in their organizations. On top of that, they earn an industry credential recognizing their achievement.”
“This certification is more than a credential, it’s a career accelerator,” added Kufahl. “Participants walk away with practical strategies to reduce legal risk, improve safety practices and protect their fleets from costly violations.”
Enrollment is now open for upcoming sessions. The first is scheduled for March 2-6, 2026. For details, visit JJKeller.com/CTRE or call 833-708-4633.
More Safety & Compliance

Brake Safety Week to Focus on Drums and Rotors
Commercial vehicle inspectors will be focusing on brakes during CVSA's Brake Safety Week, August 23-29.
Read More →
Trump Administration Looks to Put More Veterans Behind the Wheel
The Freedom Haulers program pulls together existing and expanded programs at several federal agencies to recruit veterans to drive commercial heavy-duty trucks and cut the red tape for them to get a CDL, training, and employment.
Read More →
$604 Million Verdict Tests Broker Liability After Supreme Court Ruling
C.H. Robinson plans to appeal after a Texas jury found it bore the largest share of responsibility for a fatal 2021 crash, in a case that follows the Supreme Court's Montgomery decision allowing negligent hiring claims against freight brokers.
Read More →
How Fraley & Schilling Improved Logbook Compliance by Over 50%
Fraley & Schilling needed a way to close a compliance workflow gap in its ELD system without adding more work from driver training, reminders, and back-office follow-ups. It found the answer in a custom driver app.
Read More →
Farewell, CDL: Why I'm Giving Up My Commercial Driver's License
After more than 20 years as a CDL holder, HDT Executive Editor Jack Roberts is letting his commercial license expire. Not because he wants to — but because trucking's nuclear verdict crisis has made the risks of public-road test drives too great for editors, manufacturers, and everyone involved.
Read More →
Enhance Fleet Performance with High-Efficiency Auxiliary Power Units
Drive sustainable cost savings while increasing driver comfort during short- and long-haul logistics operations.
Read More →
Wabash Trailers Recalled for Improperly Installed Underride Guards
More than 900 Wabash dry van trailers may not comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard for rear impact guards.
Read More →
Why K&B Trucking Is Embracing AI and Driver Safety Technology
Crunching data and embracing artificial intelligence are key in K&B Trucking's safety efforts, says the company's safety director.
Read More →
The Hidden Problem Behind FMCSA's ELD Revocations
NMFTA researchers say dozens of registered ELDs may be built on the same software platforms, allowing compliance and security concerns to persist even after individual devices are removed from the market.
Read More →
ATRI Wants Motor Carriers for Driver-Facing Camera Study
In this new study, the American Transportation Research Institute will explore how driver-facing cameras can impact safety and operational metrics in trucking fleets.
Read More →
