What is a FAST Driver?

If you’re interested in starting a lucrative career as a commercial truck driver, one aspect to consider is whether or not you want to do cross-border trucking across the U.S.-Canada border. These jobs pay higher than strictly local or domestic jobs. However, fleets often want FAST-approved or eligible drivers to take on these jobs. So, what exactly is a FAST driver, and how do you know whether you’re eligible to apply? Our driver recruitment experts at Nova Driver Services break it down for you.

What is FAST?

The Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program is a commercial clearance program for low-risk shipments entering the U.S. from Canada and Mexico. This program is meant to help expedite the shipping process for commercial carriers entering the United States from land border ports. In order to participate in the FAST program, every part of the supply chain, from manufacturers to fleets to drivers, must be certified under the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) program.

Who is eligible to become a FAST driver?

There are a few qualifications in order to be eligible for the FAST program. Only drivers that are U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Canadian lawful permanent residents, and Mexico nationals are eligible to apply for FAST membership. All applicants must be 18 years or older and possess a valid driver’s license as well.

What are the reasons for FAST program ineligibility?

Even if drivers meet all of the eligibility criteria, they may still be denied approval into the FAST program. Applicants that provide false information, have convictions or pending criminal charges, have previous customs or immigration violations in any country, are subjects to an ongoing investigation, or are inadmissible to the U.S. under immigration regulations are deemed ineligible.

What are the benefits of being a FAST driver?

Becoming a FAST driver has tons of advantages and can advance your commercial driving career. Not only do FAST drivers go through border customs faster, but carriers are always looking for FAST-approved drivers meaning you’ll have more job opportunities and can earn more!

If you’re a FAST driver looking for work, contact Nova Driver Services or check out our online job board. Our driver recruitment experts are always looking to fill positions at some of Canada’s top fleets.