The driver of the big rig one lane over might soon be one of these teenagers

Tucker Bubacz, a 17-year-old senior, climbs into the cab of a semi truck just outside Williamsport High School in Williamsport, Md. on Monday, Oct. 17, 2022. (Amanda Berg for NPR)

On the grounds of Williamsport High School in western Maryland, three 17-year-olds pile into the cab of a white Volvo truck, pens and pads in hand.

They record the odometer, check for warning lights, honk the horn and test the brakes. It's all part of what's called a pre-trip inspection.