Younger drivers could apply for a commercial driver’s license (CDL) under a bill approved this week by the House Transportation Utilities and Infrastructure Committee.

HB 479 by Rep. Dexter Grimsley, D-Newville, would permit Alabama to issue Class A commercial driver’s licenses for intrastate travel to applicants at least 18 years of age and under 21 years of age. Younger drivers would still be required to comply with state and federal laws and safety regulations. 

The license could only be used within the state unless federal law changes allowing drivers under 21 to operate a commercial vehicle in interstate commerce. An amendment approved in committee also would prohibit younger drivers from hauling hazardous materials or pulling over-sized loads.

The measure will now go to the full House of Representatives for consideration.