UNCLASSIFIED
Army Regulation 600 – 55
Personnel-General
The Army
Driver and
Operator
Standardization
Program
(Selection,
Training,
Testing, and
Licensing)
Headquarters
Department of the Army
Washington, DC
17 September 2019
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AR 600-55: Operator Licensing Regulation for Army Vehicles and Equipment, Study notes of Communication
The policies and procedures for selecting, training, testing, and licensing motor vehicle drivers and equipment operators in the US Army. It covers various topics such as restricted permits, special operations, renewals, replacements, strikeovers, mechanical equipment, night vision devices, and qualification training. The regulation applies to all wheeled, tracked, and mechanical or ground support equipment that requires operator licensing.
What you will learn
- What procedures must be followed for special operations within the confines of a port facility?
- What are the qualifications required to operate mechanical or ground support equipment?
- What is the process for renewing, suspending, or revoking permits?
- What are the requirements for obtaining a restricted permit in the Army?
- How are permits replaced after they are lost or stolen?
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UNCLASSIFIED
Army Regulation 600– 55
Personnel-General The Army Driver and Operator Standardization Program (Selection, Training, Testing, and Licensing) Headquarters Department of the Army Washington, DC 17 September 2019
SUMMARY of CHANGE
AR 600 – 55
The Army Driver and Operator Standardization Program (Selection, Training, Testing, and Licensing) This administrative revision, dated 15 May 2020– o Identifies the incorporation of AD 2018 – 07 – 2, removing Accident Avoidance Course training as a mandatory training requirement (throughout). This major revision, dated 17 September 2019— o Revises commander responsibilities (company, battalion, and brigade commanders) and adds responsibilities for squad leaders/first line supervisors, and operators/senior occupants (para 1 – 4 ). o Updates license criteria for Army Servicemembers (para 2 – 2 ). o Changes criteria for license requirements outside the United States (para 2– 2 c ). o Updates license criteria for Department of the Army Civilian drivers (para 2 – 3 ). o Defines commercial driver’s license criteria for Department of the Army Civilians and contractors (para 2 – 5 ). o Updates waiver requirements for licensing non-tactical vehicles (para 2 – 6 ). o Adds new figures to depict operator selection and license flow (chaps 3 and 4 ). o Adds roles for master drivers, license instructors, and license examiners (chap 4). o Adds training requirements for master driver manager, master driver, and license instructors/license examiners (para 4– 1 ). o Defines qualification training by Phases (I, II, and III) (para 4 – 3 ). o Defines annual check ride requirements (para 4 – 5 ). o Adds information pertaining to validation of reassigned operators (para 4 – 6 ). o Defines training requirements for track vehicles (para 4 – 8 ). o Updates criteria for mechanical and ground support licensing (para 4 – 9 ). o Clarifies criteria for training and licensing on trailers (para 4 – 11 ). o Updates criteria for training and licensing on commercial off the shelf items (para 4 – 12 ). o Adds clarity for hazardous material certifications for Army Servicemembers, Department of the Army Civilians, and contractors (para 4 – 13 ). o Adds criteria for testing procedures that correlate to training phases (para 5 – 1 ). o Updates criteria for renewing operator permits following change of command (para 6 – 2 ).
*This regulation supersedes AR 600–55, dated 1 May 2017. AR 600–55 • 17 September 2019
UNCLASSIFIED
i Headquarters Department of the Army Washington, DC
*Army Regulation 600 – 55
17 September 2019 (^) Effective 17 October 2019 Personnel-General
The Army Driver and Operator Standardization Program (Selection, Training,
Testing, and Licensing)
History. This publication is an adminis- trative revision. The portions affected by this administrative revision are listed in the summary of change. Summary. This regulation governs the selection, training, testing, and licensing of motor vehicle drivers and equipment operators. Applicability. This regulation applies to the Regular Army, the Army National Guard/Army National Guard of the United States, and the U.S. Army Re- serve, unless otherwise stated. It also ap- plies to all Department of the Army Civil- ian employees, non-appropriated fund employees, Youth/Student Assistant Pro- gram employees, foreign nationals di- rectly and indirectly employed by Depart- ment of the Army, and contractor person- nel, where stated, operating Army vehi- cles and equipment. This regulation is ap- plicable during full mobilization. Proponent and exception authority. The proponent of this regulation is the Deputy Chief of Staff, G– 3/5/7. The pro- ponent has the authority to approve ex- ceptions or waivers to this regulation that are consistent with controlling law and regulations. The proponent may delegate this approval authority, in writing, to a di- vision chief within the proponent agency or its direct reporting unit or field operat- ing agency, in the grade of colonel or the civilian equivalent. Activities may request a waiver to this regulation by providing justification that includes a full analysis of the expected benefits and must include formal review by the activity’s senior le- gal officer. All waiver requests will be en- dorsed by the commander or senior leader of the requesting activity and forwarded through their higher headquarters to the policy proponent. Refer to AR 25 – 30 for specific guidance. Army internal control process. This regulation contains internal control provisions in accordance with AR 11 – 2 and identifies key internal controls that must be evaluated (see appendix M). Supplementation. Supplementation of this regulation and establishment of command and local forms are prohibited without prior approval from the Deputy Chief of Staff, G– 3/5/7 (DAMO – TRI), 450 Army Pentagon, Washington, DC 20310 – 0200. Suggested improvements. Users are invited to send comments and sug- gested improvements on DA Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms) directly to the Deputy Chief of Staff, G– 3/5/7 (DAMO – TRI), 450 Army Pentagon, Washington, DC 20310 – 0200. Distribution. This publication is avail- able in electronic media only and is in- tended the Regular Army, the Army Na- tional Guard/Army National Guard of the United States, and the U.S. Army Re- serve. Contents (Listed by paragraph and page number) Chapter 1 Introduction, page 1 Purpose • 1 – 1, page 1 References and forms • 1 – 2, page 1 Explanation of abbreviations and terms • 1 – 3, page 1 Responsibilities • 1 – 4, page 1 Records management (recordkeeping) requirements • 1 – 5, page 3 Chapter 2 Driver Applicants, page 4 License requirements • 2 – 1, page 4 Army Servicemembers • 2 – 2, page 4 Department of the Army Civilian drivers • 2 – 3, page 4 Department of Defense service operators and other U.S. Government agencies • 2 – 4, page 5
Contents—Continued
Chapter 1
Introduction
1 – 1. Purpose This regulation establishes standards, policies, and procedures for the selection, training, testing, and licensing of operators of Army Government-owned or Government-leased vehicles and equipment. 1 – 2. References and forms See appendix A. 1 – 3. Explanation of abbreviations and terms See the glossary. 1 – 4. Responsibilities a. On behalf of the Chief of Staff of the Army, the Director of Army Safety will manage Armywide safety policy and guidance for safe vehicle operations. b. The Assistant Secretary of the Army (Installations, Energy and Environment), as the designated agency safety and health official will–– (1) Maintain oversight of the safety and occupational health policy. (2) Define strategic goals and ways to measure the effectiveness of the motor vehicle operations that focus on preventing motor vehicle accidents. (3) Oversee the Army Driver and Operator Standardization program. c. The Deputy Chief of Staff, G – 1 will–– (1) Develop policy to recruit individuals for driver initial entry training (IET). (2) Manage distribution of military occupational specialty (MOS) trained drivers. d. The Deputy Chief of Staff, G – 3/5/7 will–– (1) Develop policy for selecting, testing, and licensing vehicles and equipment operators. (2) Develop policy for training drivers and operators in IET and MOS producing programs. e. Chief, National Guard Bureau (CNGB) will— (1) Select, train, test, and license vehicle and equipment operators. (2) Ensure that sufficient qualified and experienced vehicle operators are available to support mobilization require- ments. (3) Ensure compliance with DOT rules at 49 CFR Part 382 regarding DA Civilian employees who perform DOT safety sensitive functions including alcohol and controlled substance testing and training for supervisors of these DA Civilian employees. (4) Implement this regulation and any additional requirements (not in conflict with this regulation) made necessary by local traffic conditions, civil restrictions, accident data, and desired standards of operator performance and preven- tive maintenance. Ensure licensing programs adequately address federal, state, local, and host-nation (HN) traffic laws. f. Commanding General, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), will develop training circulars (TCs) and training support packages (TSPs) for all major wheeled and tracked vehicle fleet variants, and generic support packages for material handling equipment, engineer equipment, and mechanical and ground support equip- ment operator training, including critical tasks, prescribed conditions, and standards, as necessary. (1) Institutional training conducted by TRADOC organizations is for the purpose of training Soldiers in required MOS skills during initial entry training, Noncommissioned Officer Education System courses, and Officer Education System courses. It will include sequential and progressive instruction in academic subjects and on driving in accord- ance with an approved program of instruction (POI). Student operators will not participate in any hands-on vehicle or operators’ training without a valid Optional Form (OF) 346 (U.S. Government Motor Vehicle Operator’s Identifica- tion Card) or DA Form 5984 – E (Operator’s Permit Record) (see chap 6 ). DA Form 5984 – E is generated electronically through Global Combat Support System-Army (GCSS-Army). (a) Academics and driving. The POI provides requirements and guidelines for commanders to use in implementing training programs, to include academic subjects as well as hands-on training. (b) Evaluation. During training, the student operator must successfully complete the performance-based (written) tests and performance tests required by the POI. Student operator’s DA Form 348 (Equipment Operator’s Qualification
Record (Except Aircraft)) will be annotated with test results as a record of training. Equipment proponent will obtain input from Commandant, U.S. Army Transportation School (USATSCH), (ATZF – ADSO), Fort Lee, VA 23801 – 2102 on the general aspects of driver training and submit the training packages and products to USATSCH for comman- dant’s approval. However, specific vehicle-oriented training packages and training support materials will be produced by the TRADOC school that is the hardware proponent. (2) The Commandant, U.S. Army Transportation School (USATSCH) is the proponent for wheeled vehicle driver training, Army Driver’s Training Strategy, and the Master Driver certification course. (3) The mission proponent for military police vehicles, fire trucks, crash or rescue vehicles, and ambulances will develop mission specific training. As part of the developmental process for wheeled vehicles, USATSCH will identify (upon request) and provide critical operator or driver tasks, conditions, and standards to the TRADOC hardware pro- ponent. Final products will be coordinated with USATSCH for approval. g. Commanding General, U.S. Army Materiel Command will— (1) Acquire vehicles and equipment that foster maximum safe operations, are crashworthy, and are equipped with required occupant restraint systems. (2) Develop operator procedures, including emergency procedures for vehicles and equipment. h. Commanders of Army commands (ACOMs), Army service component commands (ASCCs), U.S. Army Re- serve (USAR) geographic and functional commands (GFCs), and direct reporting units (DRUs) will— (1) Select, train, test, and license vehicle and equipment operators. (2) Ensure that sufficient qualified and experienced vehicle operators are available to support mobilization require- ments. (3) Ensure compliance with DOT rules at 49 CFR Part 382 regarding DA Civilian employees who perform DOT safety sensitive functions including alcohol and controlled substance testing and training for supervisors of these DA Civilian employees. (4) Implement this regulation and any additional requirements (not in conflict with this regulation) made necessary by local traffic conditions, civil restrictions, accident data, and desired standards of operator performance and preven- tive maintenance. Ensure licensing programs adequately address federal, state, local, and host-nation (HN) traffic laws. i. Brigade commanders or DA Civilian directors of organizations general schedule (GS)-15 will— (1) Select, train, test, and license vehicle and equipment operators. (2) Delegate to subordinate commanders (battalion level or civilian division chief/GS – 14) in writing the authority to train, test, and license noncommercial vehicle and equipment operators. Initial Operator Training programs (Phase I) should be managed at the highest level possible (battalion level and above), however certain circumstances may require program management and training execution at company size or below. Brigade commanders and civilian directors (GS– 15) may delegate in writing to company level commanders the authority to conduct driver and operator training, testing, and licensing only when these organizations are geographically separated from higher commands, which prevents consolidated training management. (3) Appoint, in writing, a noncommissioned officer (NCO) (SFC/E7 or comparable civilian equivalent/GS – 7 and above) to the position of brigade master driver manager to manage subordinate organization licensing programs (see para 4 – 1 for role of master driver managers). (4) Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure subordinate organizations are provided clear guidance on training, certifying, and licensing operators on vehicles and equipment. j. Battalion commanders or civilian division chiefs (GS – 14) will–– (1) Develop and publish guidance for implementing operator licensing program within the organization. (2) Appoint, in writing, an NCO (SSG/E – 6 and above, or comparable civilian equivalent/GS – 7 and above) to the position of battalion master driver to manage licensing program (see 4 – 1 for role of master drivers). (3) Ensure vehicle and equipment operators are properly licensed and trained according to this regulation and other local requirements. Training will include driver responsibilities, laws and regulations, basic operating procedures, emergency response procedures, accident causes and reporting, hazards and safety measures, operation of government vehicles off post/base, transportation of personnel, maintenance responsibilities and forms, convoy operations, equip- ment/vehicle hands on training, and training validation concludes with a performance road test (see chap 4 and app E for POI requirements). k. Company commanders or civilian branch chiefs (GS – 12 and above) will–– (1) Develop and publish guidance for interviewing and selecting driver candidates (see interview details in para 3 – 2 , and sample interview questions in app B). (2) Certify and appoint, in writing, sufficient numbers of license instructors and license examiners within the or- ganization to conduct required training, test administration, and training validation/performance road tests. Certifying
forms, and reports are located in ARIMS/RRS – A at https://www.arims.army.mil. If any record numbers, forms, and reports are not current, addressed, and/or published correctly in ARIMS/RRS – A, see DA Pam 25 – 403 for guidance.
Chapter 2
Driver Applicants
2 – 1. License requirements a. This chapter identifies licensing requirements of applicants for motor vehicle operator positions. All Department of Defense (DOD) military and civilian personnel (excluding contractors), to include foreign nationals whose position requires them to operate an Army Government-owned or Government-leased vehicle will have a valid civilian driver’s license issued by a State, the District of Columbia, a U.S. possession (Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, or Guam), or foreign country (foreign nationals only) as a requisite for employment, and be selected, trained, tested, licensed, and recorded in accordance with this regulation and AR 385 – 10. DA Civilian personnel required to operate Army motor vehicles (AMVs) as a part of their occupational duties will have pre-employment license requirements clearly detailed in the position description. b. DOD contractor employees assigned to operate Government-owned or Government-leased equipment in the performance of their contract will be in compliance with the licensing requirements of the federal, state, local, and applicable foreign nation motor vehicle laws and certified, by the contractor and at the contractor’s expense, as being fully qualified to operate the equipment which they are assigned. The prime contractor must document all required operator qualifications and provide this documentation (commercial drivers’ license (CDL), and hazardous material endorsements) to the administrative contracting officer prior to the contract employee engaging in equipment opera- tion. The administrative contracting officer will retain this documentation. c. DA Civilians appointed under direct-hire authority in cases of Office of Personnel Management (OPM) registers, reinstatements, position changes or transfers, and noncompetitive job appointments must comply with the provisions of this regulation. d. OF 346 cannot be placed on the website for security reasons. Federal agencies can place an order for this form at https://www.gsaglobalsupply.gsa.gov or https://www.gsaadvantage.gov with either a Government purchase card or Activity Address Code. The national stock number is 7540 – 00 – 634 – 3999. Note. Government contractors will need to have their Government department, agency, or office sponsor their request before placing an order. 2 – 2. Army Servicemembers The following minimum licensing requirements apply to military operators of AMVs: a. Driving off the installation. Within the United States or U.S. possessions, operators must have— (1) A valid OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E. However, commanders have the option to waive the OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E requirement for Army Servicemembers to operate non-tactical administrative DOD motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight less than 10,000 pounds (see para 2 – 6 for waiver requirements and situations when the waiver of an OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E is prohibited). (2) A valid civilian driver’s license issued by a State (not necessarily the State in which the activity is located), the District of Columbia, or a U.S. possession (Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, or Guam). b. Driving vehicles exclusively on the installation. Within the United States or U.S. possessions (as a prerequisite for awarding an MOS), operators— (1) Are not required to have a civilian driver’s license (tactical vehicles operated on the installation only). (2) Must have a valid OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E. c. Driving outside the United States or United States possessions. Operators must— (1) Have a valid OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E. (2) Possess a valid civilian driver’s license issued by the civil authorities of HN or by any state or territory of the United States unless the operational ACOM or ASCC commander waives requirements in a deployed situation that does not violate HN laws or status of forces agreements (SOFAs). (3) Meet any additional HN laws. 2 – 3. Department of the Army Civilian drivers The following licensing requirements apply to DA Civilians operating AMVs: a. Driving within the United States or United States possessions, including those who exclusively drive Army motor vehicles on the installation. Operators must have—
(1) A valid OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E. However, the OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E is not required for DA Civilian personnel who operate non-tactical administrative DOD motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight less than 10, pounds (see para 2 – 6 for waiver requirements of DA Civilian drivers and situations when the waiver of an OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E is prohibited). (2) A valid civilian driver’s license issued by a State or U.S. possession for the size and class of vehicle to be operated. b. Driving outside the United States or United States possessions. Operators must— (1) Have a valid OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E. (2) Possess a valid civilian driver’s license issued by the civil authorities of HN or by any state or territory of the United States for the size and class of vehicle to be operated. (3) Meet any additional HN and operational ACOM or ASCC requirements. 2 – 4. Department of Defense service operators and other U.S. Government agencies Valid operator’s permits of active members of other U.S. military Services or Government agencies may be honored as a matter of reciprocal courtesy by garrison/senior commanders provided local military and civilian requirements have been met. 2 – 5. Commercial drivers’ license a. The CDL program was established by the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986, Section 31301, Title 49 United States Code (49 USC 31301). This Act is applicable only within the United States and applies to every person who operates a commercial motor vehicle in interstate, foreign, or intrastate commerce, to all employers of such persons, and to all States. b. Military operators of equipment owned or equipment leased by the DOD are granted a waiver of the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986’s requirements (that is, are not required to obtain a State CDL). This waiver applies to any active duty military personnel and members of the USAR and ARNG on active duty; including personnel on full-time National Guard duty, personnel on part-time National Guard training, and ARNG military technicians (ci- vilians who are required to wear military uniforms and are subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice). This exception is not applicable to USAR military technicians. c. DA Civilian and contractor-employed civilians (except firefighters) must have a CDL to operate the following Government-owned or Government-leased vehicles on public roadways (see para 4 – 13 d for description of public roadways): (1) Class A combination vehicle. Any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating of 26, or more pounds provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. (2) Class B heavy straight vehicle. Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR. (3) Class C small vehicle. Any single vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that meets neither the definition of class A or class B as defined in paragraphs 2 – 5 c (1) and 2 – 5 c (2), but is either designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver, or is used to transport hazardous materials (HAZMAT) or waste in any amount. d. DA civilian drivers are not required to possess a CDL when operating Class A – C Government-owned or Gov- ernment-leased motor vehicles exclusively within a contiguous Federal facility boundary where public access is con- trolled or restricted, however must be trained and licensed according to this regulation and possess a valid OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E. e. Refer to paragraph 4 – 13 for hazardous material endorsement requirements, and appendix C for the Wheeled Vehicle Fleet Classification System, which categorizes Army tactical wheeled vehicles according to CDL vehicle classes. f. Additional CDL qualification requirements are contained in Part 383, Title 49, Code of Federal regulations ( CFR 383). g. Additional CDL requirements are contained in Part 382, Title 49, Code of Federal regulations (49 CFR 382). 2 – 6. Waivers a. Department of the Army Civilian drivers. The OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E requirement is waived for DA Civilian personnel who operate non-tactical administrative DOD motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of less than 10,000 pounds (see para 2 – 6 e for situations when the waiver of an OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E does not apply to DA Civilian personnel). b. Department of the Army Civilian waiver criteria. For the waiver to apply, DA Civilian drivers must have––
c. The driver interview should be used judiciously by the commander or authorized representative to assess the strengths of potential operators. Commands should exercise discretion and use the interview process to select the best qualified individuals to operate vehicles or equipment (see fig 3 – 1 for operator selection flow chart). d. The commander or authorized representative will have their signature block located at the bottom of the inter- view checklist, and will include, full printed name, position, signature, and date the interview was conducted. Addi- tionally, the prospective driver is required to sign the interview checklist validating all questions have been answered truthfully. 3 – 3. Physical examination and evaluation a. Physical characteristics. Review technical manual requirements and evaluate the physical characteristics of prospective operators to ensure that they can effectively and safely control the vehicle while occupying the driver’s compartment. b. Physical examinations. Army Servicemembers are required to undergo periodic medical examinations by qual- ified medical personnel according to AR 40 – 501. Physical readiness will be validated prior to issuance of operator permit and validated annually by reviewing operator’s medical readiness status in Medical Protection System (MEDPROS). See paragraph 4 – 2 b for annual review criteria and documentation requirements. DA Civilian drivers who are required to obtain a CDL must meet the physical standards in accordance with 49 CFR 391.41 through 49 CFR 391.49. c. Physical limitations. (1) Certain physical limitations may be compensated for or corrected so that they alone are not sufficient grounds to deny a standard license. Other limitations may restrict the individual’s operation of specific vehicles or equipment under specific conditions; DA Form 348 and OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E will be annotated with such restrictions. Provisions of AR 750 – 10 apply concerning modification to vehicles and equipment when hand controls or other driver-aid devices are necessary. Medical restrictions will be noted in the individual’s personnel file. Driver and op- erator responsibilities of a person with physical limitations are the same as those of other licensed drivers and opera- tors. (2) A driver applicant with any medical (pathological, psychological, or physiological) restrictions that would limit their ability to operate vehicles or equipment will report these restrictions to their commander or supervisor as soon as they are known. The commander or supervisor will verify this information with appropriate medical personnel. The restrictions will be annotated on the OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E and DA Form 348. (3) Persons who fail any portion of the medical examination will be evaluated by appropriate medical authorities to determine if they are physically or mentally qualified for driving. Such personnel may be qualified to drive if, in the opinion of the medical authorities, weaknesses may be corrected or compensated for with counseling or other corrective measures prior to licensing. d. Physical evaluation measures. Physical evaluation measures are a series of physical tests using a standard driver testing and training device to evaluate an applicant’s physical qualifications or limitations and to provide a basis for counseling and guidance by commanders or supervisors. This test will be conducted by qualified driver testing per- sonnel prior to issuing a license (OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E) and will be reassessed every 5 years (see app D for testing procedures). Results of the physical evaluation measure testing will be recorded on DA Form 348. Organiza- tions that do not possess the driver testing and training device must coordinate with their higher headquarters to pro- cure the device (see app D for national stock number).
Figure 3–1. Operator selection 3 – 4. Operator license inquiries a. The Department of Transportation (DOT) maintains the National Drivers Register at a central driver records facility that contains information on drivers whose civilian licenses have been denied, suspended, or revoked. Each State provides DOT with data for the register. Army commanders will not provide DOT with data on OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E. Suspension and revocation information will not be provided to the DOT. b. Agencies that issue permits using the OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E will conduct a prompt, thorough inquiry whenever there is any reasonable doubt regarding the authenticity or validity of an individual’s state motor vehicle operator’s license, when the agency has reason to suspect a poor driving record, or when the applicant does not possess a valid state driver’s license. The licensing agency must conduct the inquiry prior to issuing or renewing the individ- ual’s OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E. This applies to both Army Servicemembers and DA Civilian drivers. (1) When an Army Servicemember without a State license is awaiting issue of an OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E, and there is no reason to believe they have had a State license revoked or suspended, issuing agencies are permitted to issue a limited permit OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E for tactical vehicle operation on the installation only while awaiting the inquiry results. (2) A driver who has had their State license revoked will have their OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E revoked as well, and will not be issued a new OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E during the period of revocation.
License examiners are required to administer the Phase I: Initial Operator Training exam, Phase II: Equipment Train- ing exam, and the Phase III: Training Validation/Performance Road Test exam. License examiners must–– (1) Be appointed in writing as a license examiner for specific types of vehicles or equipment. (2) Be a non-commissioned officer (or comparable civilian). (3) Have technical knowledge and experience as outlined in appendix F. (4) Successfully complete the License Instructor and Examiner distance learning course on Army Learning Man- agement System. e. An individual may be appointed by the commander to be both a license instructor and a license examiner. How- ever, when feasible the license examiner that administers written exams and road tests should not be the same indi- vidual that instructed the classroom or hands-on training. The practice of having different personnel administer exam- inations and road tests is to ensure training is completed to standard without bias. f. Training materials. The license instructors will use training materials and tools developed and/or approved by TRADOC. These tools include TCs available at https://armypubs.army.mil/default.aspx, TSPs available at https://rdl.train.army.mil, computer-based training devices, simulators, and the other materials made available through the Unit Training Assistance Program at https://utap.army.mil/home.aspx. 4 – 2. Documentation a. Unless otherwise stated, the provisions of this chapter apply to both Army Servicemembers and DA civilian drivers (except contractor) operators of Government-owned or Government-leased vehicles and equipment. b. All training for vehicles and equipment which require licensing under this regulation will be documented on a DA Form 348, and updated on the GCSS-Army Operator Qualification Record prior to issuing an OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E (see app E and local policies for training topics). The unit will maintain a copy of the manual DA Form 348 and return the original form to the Soldier. Upon permanent change of station (PCS) or expiration of term of service, Soldiers will receive the updated DA Form 348 as part of the individual Soldier’s out processing (see DA Pam 750 – 8 for more information on DA Form 348 use). (1) A DA Form 348 provides a means for recording the complete history of an individual’s qualification and pre- vious driving and equipment operating experience. A DA Form 348 will be maintained by the unit on every individual who operates a vehicle or equipment owned or leased by the U.S. Army. The only exception to the DA Form 348 requirement is for DA Civilian drivers who are only permitted to operate non-tactical administrative DOD motor vehicles as indicated by the waiver guidance in paragraph 2 – 6. When a Soldier or DA Civilian executes a PCS or permanently leaves an organization, they will bring their original DA Form 348 and OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E to their gaining organization. (2) DA Form 348 and DA Form 348 – 1 (Equipment Operator’s Qualification Record (Except Aircraft)) are perma- nent records and will not be destroyed. Reproductions of manual DA Form 348 or DA Form 348 – 1 may only be produced if the Soldier can provide verifiable data in accordance with paragraph 4–2a(9) verifiable entries. All manual entries will be in black ink or typed unless otherwise stated. Rubber stamps may be used providing they fit within the space or block. Erasures, correction fluid (white-out), and correction tape will not be used to make corrections. Ink or typed corrections will be made by drawing one line through the incorrect entry and reentering the correct entry on the next open line in that section. (3) The Army will use the GCSS-Army generated personnel number on all forms associated with this regulation. (4) GCSS-Army assigns equipment by model specific end item codes. All qualifications entered for vehicles and/or equipment on the DA Form 348, OF 346, or DA Form 5984 – E will be model specific using the end item code (EIC), except for specialized training required by local command. The use of generic series, family, or below (for example, M113 Family, Generators 200 kilowatt and below, Bus 90 pass and below, Backhoe-all models, or pintle towed trailer) is prohibited. (5) DA Form 348 will be initiated during operator selection, and updated when the individual completes the Phase I examination, and prior to issuing an OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E. (6) The DA Form 348 will be reviewed annually for— (a) Driver or operator awards. (b) Expiration of permits. (c) Accidents and moving traffic violations. (d) Remedial, required, or refresher training. (e) Reexamination. (f) License suspension. (g) Physical examinations will be validated by reviewing operator’s medical readiness status in MEDPROS. An overall MEDPROS readiness status that is amber or red is an indicator the individual may not be physically capable
of safely operating vehicles and should be referred to the command for review and possible consultation with medical professionals. (h) Once all of the listed topics have been reviewed for accuracy and completion, the individual (designated by the commander) who conducts the review will sign and date in section III of the DA Form 348. Procedures for incorrect or missing entries are covered in paragraph 4 – 2 b (9). (7) When individuals are transferred or released from regular driver or operator duties, the designated records reviewer will ensure all required information has been accurately posted to the DA Form 348, to include the following: (a) Information on official qualifications. (b) Background and experience. (c) Examination findings. (d) Performance record. (e) Driver or operator awards. (f) All chargeable moving traffic violations or accidents while operating a military or privately owned vehicle. (g) Suspension or revocation of state or HN driving privileges. (h) Total miles driven. (8) When sections of the DA Form 348 are to be continued, a DA Form 348 – 1 will be initiated and attached to the original DA Form 348. DA Form 348 – 1 is prepared in the same manner as the DA Form 348. (9) If an operator reports in from another unit with incomplete, incorrect, or illegible entries on their DA Form 348 and DA Form 348 – 1, the gaining unit will correct the entries as follows: (a) Verifiable entries. Some incomplete or illegible data may be verified by reviewing other documents or con- tacting the losing unit. For example, if section III states that the driver received winter driving training, but the entry is not dated or not initialed, the Soldier may have a training certificate or memorandum for record to verify the date that they received the training. For these types of errors, the gaining unit may add the missing information or line through the illegible entry and rewrite the entry on the next line and initial next to the correction. See paragraph 4 – 6 for training validation requirements for reassigned drivers/operators. (b) Non-verifiable entries. Incomplete, incorrect, or illegible information which cannot be verified will be lined through and initialed by the gaining unit. A Soldier will not receive credit for non-verifiable entries on the driving record and must be trained and tested in order to receive credit. 4 – 3. Qualification training Qualification training will include sequential and progressive instruction in academic subjects and on driving. The process for qualification training applies to all wheeled, tracked, and mechanical or ground support equipment that requires operator licensing. Operators will not participate in any hands-on vehicle or equipment training without a valid OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E (see also fig 3 – 1 and chap 6). License instructors and license examiners are re- sponsible to ensure risk assessments are conducted prior to training execution. See paragraph E – 2 or details on risk mitigation procedures. a. Academics and driving. The Army framework for operator licensing consists of three progressive phases of training. Phase I constitutes the initial operator training that instructs trainees on regulations, forms, operator technical manuals, and basic operator skills. Phase II instructs the trainee on how to operate a specific vehicle model or equip- ment. Phase III is the culminating event that validates training completion prior to the trainee being issued an Army license. New operators are required to complete all three phases of training when licensed on the first vehicle or piece of equipment. Once an individual has been issued an Army license, Phases II and III are required for each additional vehicle or piece of equipment that the individual is to be licensed on. Details for each phase are provided: (1) Phase I: Initial operator training consists of classroom training to instruct prospective operators on the admin- istrative, technical, and regulatory aspects of operating Army equipment (see fig 4 – 1 for training flow chart, para 5 – 1 for testing procedures, and app E for program of instruction). (a) Classroom instruction to be offered by appointed license instructors or master drivers. (b) Training completion will be validated by written exam to be administered by a license examiner that has been appointed in writing.
(2) Phase II: The primary focus for all equipment training during the classroom and hands-on portions is based on the content of the equipment operator - 10 technical manual (TM). Equipment training consists of classroom and hands- on instruction for each piece of equipment on which an operator is to be licensed. This includes instruction on equip- ment capability, PMCS inspection, and operation in a variety of environments (to include the usual and unusual con- ditions as defined in the operator TM). See figure 4 – 2 for training flow chart, paragraph 5 – 1 for testing procedures and appendix E for POI. (a) The classroom and hands-on portion of Phase II training will be offered by an appointed license instructor. (b) The trainee is issued an OF 346 learner’s permit upon completion of the introduction to the vehicle or equip- ment, and successful completion of the written examination administered by a license examiner. Once a valid learner’s permit has been issued, the trainee may begin the hands-on portion of instruction. (c) The hands-on portion consists of vehicle equipment operation and driving (see app E for details). (d) In order to gain proficiency, the operator may continue to operate the vehicle with a learner’s permit provided a licensed driver, license instructor, or license examiner accompanies the trainee in the vehicle or on the equipment. Details for learner’s permit issuance and control to include expiration periods are located in paragraph 6 – 2 of this regulation. (e) Training completion will be validated when the license instructor or supervisor feels the trainee is proficient at operating the vehicle or equipment and is ready for the Phase III: Training validation/Performance Road Test.
Figure 4–2. Phase II: Equipment Training (3) Phase III: Training Validation/Road Test is the culminating event to certify a trainee is proficient at operating the vehicle or equipment. (a) The Training Validation/Performance Road Test for wheeled vehicles consists of a PMCS hands-on test, vehi- cle controlled driving test, and road driving test. Track vehicle operators are required to complete a PMCS hands-on test, road driving test in a controlled driving course, and an off-road driving course. Mechanical and ground support equipment operators must conduct PMCS hands-on test and satisfactorily demonstrate knowledge on employing equipment in accordance with the applicable operator technical manuals. (b) Phase III certification must be administered by a license examiner that is appointed in writing and licensed on the equipment for which the trainee is being tested. Appendix G of this regulation provides details on administering a road test. b. Qualification. Upon passing all three phases of training, the student may be issued an OF 346 or DA Form 5984 – E standard permit or limited permit according to chapter 6. Commands may issue a training certificate or mem- orandum for record to individuals that successfully complete the training. These documents may be used at a later time to validate the DA Form 348 in the event it is lost, damaged, or has incomplete entries. Successful completion of the Phase III certifies a driver to operate vehicles during the daytime and night time operations using vehicle headlights