New online course connects courts with CDL drivers in the fight against human trafficking
January 8, 2025 -- A new NCSC course gives courts an opportunity to connect with Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders to raise awareness about human trafficking.
CDL Drivers and Courts: On the Road to End Human Trafficking is a free, 45-minute, interactive, self-paced online course developed by NCSC Creative Learning Services (CLS).
Courts are encouraged to share messaging about the course in notices or public information geared toward CDL drivers. Course completion may also be court ordered as an appropriate sentence requirement or condition of probation, parole, or community service.
“With about 8.7 million commercial motor vehicle drivers in the U.S., this initiative provides an opportunity to reach a significant number of commercial drivers with information to help them detect and report human trafficking,” said Derek Felton, NCSC CLS director. “State courts and judges can actively participate by promoting the course and reinforcing certain messaging at various CDL holder touchpoints.”
The course covers essential signs of trafficking, discusses how to report suspicious activity, and provides insights into potential victims, perpetrators, and common trafficking locations.
How courts can help
Additional resources available to courts and justice system partners to help raise awareness include a judicial bench card, a reference card for prosecutors, digital signage content, social media graphics, and flyers and rack cards.
Felton encourages courts to begin supporting the CDL Drivers and Courts initiative this month, which has been designated National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
To learn more about the course and access the implementation guide and resources, visit ncsc.org/cdlhtainfo.