Commercial Driver License Handbook
This section is for all commercial drivers
The California Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Program was enacted to improve traffic safety on our roadways. As a result, California has developed licensing and testing requirements for drivers of commercial vehicles which equals or exceeds federal standards.
It takes special skills and a professional
attitude to safely operate large trucks and buses. Only
professional drivers will receive and keep a Commercial
Driver License (CDL). A CDL is proof of your professional
skills and aptitude.
To operate commercial vehicles, you must apply for a CDL. Only California residents may obtain a California CDL. Residency is established by any of the following: registering to vote here, paying resident tuition at a public institution of higher education, filing for a California homeowner’s property tax exemption, obtaining a license (such as a fishing license), or any other privilege or benefit not ordinarily extended to nonresidents. You need a CDL if you operate a vehicle or combination of vehicles which requires a Class A or Class B license or Class C license with endorsements.
A commercial motor vehicle is a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles designed or used for either the transportation of persons for compensation or property and:
- Has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.
- Tows any vehicle with a GVWR of 10,001 pounds or more.
- Tows more than one vehicle or a trailer bus.
- Has three or more axles (excludes three axle vehicles weighing 6,000 pounds or less gross).
- Is any vehicle (bus, farm labor vehicle, general public paratransit vehicle, etc.) designed, used, or maintained to carry more than 10 passengers including the driver, for hire or profit, or is used by any nonprofit organization or group.
- Transports hazardous materials requiring placarding.*
- Transports hazardous wastes (Health and Safety
Code §§25115 and 25117).*
NOTE: Employees of school districts, private schools, community colleges, and California state universities who operate 15-passenger vans must have a CDL with a passenger transport vehicle (PV) endorsement. A 15passenger van is a van manufactured to accommodate 15 passengers, including the driver, or a van “designed” to carry 15 passengers, including the driver, even if seats have been removed to accommodate fewer than 15 passengers.
Endorsements
A special endorsement is also required to drive the following types of vehicles. The endorsement shows as a single letter on the driver license.
- Placarded or marked vehicles transporting hazardous materials or wastes—H
- Tank vehicles (including a cement truck)—N.
- Passenger transport vehicles—P.
- Double trailer combination—T.
- Tank vehicles transporting hazardous materials or wastes—X.(Hazardous waste must meet the definition of VC Sections 353 and 15278.)
Exceptions to the CDL requirements are:
- Persons exempted under Health and Safety Code §25163.
- Persons operating a vehicle in an emergency situation at the direction of a peace officer.
- Drivers who tow a fifth-wheel travel trailer over 15,000 pounds GVWR or a trailer coach over 10,000 pounds GVWR, when the towing is not for compensation. Drivers must have a noncommercial Class A license.
- Drivers of housecars over 40 feet but not over 45 feet, with endorsement.
- Drivers of only fire fighting vehicles or buses used to travel to and from the scene of any emergency situation. Drivers need either a Class A or B license with a fire fighter restriction. A fire fighter may add a “P” endorsement if the bus is owned by a federal or state agency, a city or county fire department, or a volunteer fire department and when the driving is restricted to operating buses as defined in VC §15250.6(g). All fire fighters, whether they have a CDL or a Class A or B fire fighter-restricted driver license, are subject to commercial driver sanctions.
- A fire fighter with a restricted license who transports compressed air tanks for breathing apparatuses that do not exceed 2,500 pounds.
- Noncivilian military personnel operating military vehicles.
- Implement of husbandry operators who are not required to have a driver license.
Special certificates may sometimes be required in addition to a CDL, depending on the type of vehicle or load you carry.
NOTE: It is unlawful to drive a school bus or transit vehicle while using a wireless (cell) telephone for non-work purposes. Emergency calls to law enforcement, a health care provider, a fire department, or other emergency services are permitted.
Apply at DMV field offices for the following certificates:
Ambulance Driver Certificate—required for driving an ambulance used commercially in emergency service (VC §2512). Persons who have an ambulance driver certificate must submit a copy of the medical report to DMV every two years.
Hazardous Agricultural Materials (HAM)*—exempts persons who transport hazardous waste or placarded loads from CDL requirements if the:
- Person is at least 21 years of age.
- Person is employed in an agricultural operation.
- Load is not being transported for compensation.
- Vehicle is owned or leased by a farmer.
- Person has completed a HAM program approved by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Although the person who qualifies for a HAM is not required to have a CDL, commercial motor vehicle penalties and sanctions will apply.
- Person submits to DMV every two years a copy of the medical report or health questionnaire.
- Person operates a vehicle which is an implement of husbandry OR requires a Class C license and does not exceed 50 miles from one point to another.
Verification
of Transit Training Document (VTT)—requires
drivers of transit bus vehicles
to comply with specified training requirements. Transit
bus vehicles provide the public with regularly scheduled
transportation for which a fare is charged. (Does not
include general public paratransit vehicle). Drivers
who have a school bus
certificate or school
pupil activity bus certificate do not need a
VTT.
Apply at CHP offices for the following certificates:
General Public Paratransit Vehicle Certificate (GPPV)*—required for any person who drives:
- A vehicle which carries not more than 24 persons including the driver and provides local transportation to the general public (e.g., Dial-A-Ride). (VC §§336 and 12523.5)
- Pupils at or below the 12th grade level to or from a public or private school or school activity.
School Bus Driver Certificate*—required of any person who drives a bus for any school district or any other party carrying public or private pupils (VC §§545, 12517, 12522, 34500, 34501.5). A school bus driver must also have a school bus (S) endorsement on his/her CDL. School bus drivers 65 years of age and older must submit an annual medical report to DMV. (VC §12517.2)
School Pupil Activity Bus Certificate (SPAB)*—required of any person who drives a bus for any school district or any other party carrying public or private pupils for school related activities. (VC §§546 and 12517)
Farm Labor Vehicle Certificate*—required to drive farm labor trucks and buses (VC §§322 and 12519). NOTE: The driver and all passengers in a farm labor vehicle are required to use seat belts.
Youth Bus Certificate*—required to operate any bus other than a school bus which carries not more than 16 children and the driver to or from a school, to an organized non-school related activity, or to and from home (after receiving additional CHP training). (VC §§680 and 12523)
Tow Truck Driver Clearance*—required for drivers in emergency road service organizations that provide freeway service patrol operations pursuant to an agreement or who contract with a specified public transportation planning entity (traffic commission).
Vehicle for Developmentally Disabled Persons (VDDP)*—required to operate a vehicle for a business or nonprofit organization or agency whose primary job is to transport for hire persons with developmental disabilities. (Welfare and Institutions Code §4512[A]and VC §12523.6)
* Drivers subject to the commercial driver sanctions.
Apply at any DMV field office for a CDL. You:
- May drive for hire within California if you are 18 years of age or older and do not engage in interstate commerce activities.
- Must be at least 21 years old to drive a commercial vehicle across state lines (interstate commerce) or to transport passengers or hazardous materials or wastes (intrastate or interstate commerce). (VC §12515)
Provide The Following Items:
- A completed Application for a Driver License (DL 44) form. Signing this form means you agree to submit to a chemical test to determine the alcohol or drug content of your blood. If you refuse to sign this form, DMV will not issue or renew your driver license.
- Your true full name.
- An approved medical form (or copy) completed by
a U.S. licensed doctor of medicine (M.D.), osteopathy
(D.O.), licensed physician assistant (P.A.), a nurse
practitioner (N.P.), advance practice nurse, or chiropractor
when you apply for a driver license or instruction
permit. Drivers who hold certificates to drive school
buses, SPAB, youth buses, GPPV, or farm labor vehicles
must have their medical examinations given by doctors
of medicine. (VC §12517.2)
Note: Do not mail your medical report to the CHP.
A medical report dated within the last two years is required for any CDL application and then every two years after that. Mail the interim medical to:Department of Motor Vehicles
Commercial Problem Drivers Inquiry Unit M/S G204
P.O. Box 942890
Sacramento, CA 94290-0001You will be given a Medical Certificate Card (DL 51A) to carry when you drive commercially. You can be given a citation for driving out-of-class if your medical certificate expires or you drive without a valid medical certificate in your possession. You may also be removed from your vehicle by a law enforcement officer for driving out of class.
You may also be removed from your vehicle by a law enforcement officer for driving out of class.
If you must have a CDL as part of your job, your employer shall pay the cost of the examination unless your examination was taken before you applied for the job (Labor Code §231).
Note: Customers who do not meet the minimum medical standards, will either be restricted or refused a CDL. The restrictions are:
— may not transport passengers commercially or transport materials which require placards. (VC §27903)
— may not drive in interstate commerce. - An acceptable birth date/legal presence (BD/ LP)
document. All applicants for an original DL/ID card
must submit proof of legal presence in the US as
authorized under federal law. If the name on your
BD/LP document is different from the name on your
DL application form, you must also bring in an acceptable
true full name document. Your true full name, as
shown on your BD/LP document, will appear on your
DL/ID card.(Refer to the California
Driver Handbook.)
An acceptable BD/LP or true full name document is one produced by an issuing authority (i.e., county, state, etc.). This document is a certified copy of the original (the original is always retained by the issuing authority) and will contain an impressed seal or an original stamped impression. The certified copy will be returned to you. If you make a copy of the certified copy, DMV will not accept it for BD/LP verification. - Your Social Security Card (cannot be laminated), Medicare card, or U.S. Armed Forces active, retired, or reserve DD2 form for an original CDL. The document must contain your name and SSN. Your SSN will be verified with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office.
- A Certificate of Driving Skill (DL 170) if your employer is authorized by DMV to issue such certificates. Both you and your employer sign this form.
- The applicable fee. This fee is good for 12 months from the application date. You are allowed a total of three attempts to pass the entire road test (pre-trip inspection, skills, and driving test) on a single application. If you fail any portion of the road test (pre-trip inspection, skills, or driving test), it will count as one failure towards the maximum three attempts you are allowed. Example: Failing the pre-trip inspection, skills test, and driving test counts as a three-time failure (or any failure combination equaling three). However, if you are required to take a driving test for separate types of vehicles (Class A or passenger transport vehicle), you are allowed three driving tests for the Class A vehicle and three driving tests for the passenger transport vehicle.
Fees subject to legislative change each January 1st.
|
|
||
| If the class of license is… | and the application type is… |
the fee is… |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial
Class A or B |
an original—no prior California DL (with/without a driving test) |
$64 |
| an original—prior California DL (with/without a driving test) |
$64 |
|
| to remove a restriction(s) imposed due to vehicle size or equipment |
$64 |
|
| to add a passenger transport endorsement |
$64 |
|
| a driving or skill retest fee |
$30 |
|
| a renewal |
$34 |
|
| an upgrade in class or endorsement other than PV |
$34 |
|
| add noncommercial Class A to a Class B |
$34 |
|
| add Class M1/M2 |
$34 |
|
| a duplicate |
$27 |
|
| a name change |
$20
|
|
|
|
||
| If the class of license is… | and the application type is… |
the fee is… |
| Fire fighters restricted Class A or B | a duplicate |
$27 |
| an original—prior California DL |
$34 |
|
| a renewal |
$34 |
|
| remove a restriction imposed due to vehicle size or equipment |
$34 |
|
| an endorsement requiring a driving test |
$34 |
|
| a name change |
$20 |
|
| an original—no prior California DL (with/without a driving test) |
$27
|
|
|
|
||
| If the class of license is… | and the application type is… |
the fee is… |
| Commercial Class C | an original—prior California DL (with/without a driving test) |
$64 |
| a renewal |
$34 |
|
| an upgrade or endorsement not requiring a driving test |
$64 |
|
| remove an air brake restriction |
$64 |
|
| a duplicate |
$27 |
|
| a driving or skill retest fee |
$30 |
|
| a name change |
$20 |
|
|
to upgrade a license requiring a driving test
|
$64 | |
CDL Offices
Call 1-800-777-0133 to schedule a CDL driving test in one of the following offices:
Required Testing
You must take and pass vision, knowledge (law), and performance (pre-trip and driving, if required) tests to get your original CDL and/ or endorsements or to upgrade to a different class of license. Law and vision tests may be required for renewals. A driving test is required:
- For an original CDL.
- To remove a restriction placed on your license because of vehicle size or equipment.
- To add a "P" endorsement.
- To renew a CDL expired for more than two year.
- General Knowledge Test, for all Class A and B applicants.
- Air Brakes Test, if you operate vehicles with air brakes.
- Combination Vehicles Test, if you drive Class A combination vehicles.
- Passenger Transport Vehicle Test, if you transport passengers.
- Hazardous Materials Test, if you transport hazardous materials or wastes requiring placards or markings.
- Tank Vehicle Test, if you transport liquids in bulk (including cement mixers).
- Doubles/Triples Test, if you pull double or triple trailers. (Triple trailers are illegal in California.)
NOTE: Your law and/or endorsement test(s) will not be returned to you.
After passing the required knowledge test(s), you will take the CDL performance tests which include a pre-trip inspection/knowledge test, basic control skills tests, and the driving test. You must use the same (or similar) vehicle for all three performance tests. Under certain specified conditions, the driving test requirements may be waived by DMV or CHP.
Pre-trip inspection. You demonstrate your knowledge of how the specific features and equipment on the test vehicle should be checked. This handbook contains inspection guides on pages 125 and 126 for handy reference. You may use only one of these guides when taking your pre-trip test. If you do not pass the pre-trip inspection test, the other tests will be postponed. There is no additional fee for repeat pre-trip tests on the same application. See Section 10 for pre trip information.
Skills tests. You perform various skills that test your control and ability to maneuver the vehicle. The tests consist of exercises marked by traffic cones or markers. The examiner will explain how each exercise is to be done. You will be scored on your ability to properly perform each exercise. Failure of any skill test ends the test and a retest fee is due for each retest. See Section 11 for skill test information.
Driving test. You drive on a DMV-specified route. The test is about 45 to 60 minutes long and includes left and right turns, intersections, railroad crossings, curves, up and down grades, rural or semi-rural roads, city multilane streets, and freeway driving. If you fail the driving test, a retest fee is charged for each additional driving test. See Section 12 for driving test information.
CDL Restrictions
Your CDL will be restricted to the type of vehicle you use for the driving test. For example, if your test vehicle does not have air brakes you will be restricted to driving vehicles without air brakes. If your passenger transport vehicle carries 15 persons or less including the driver, you will be restricted to driving a small size bus.
You may take the law test at any DMV office. Office hours vary. Please call for an Appointment(s) .
The driving test is given by appointment only at one of the CDL offices.
All commercial vehicle drivers must:
- Be a California resident before applying for a California CDL.
- Disclose all states in which they were previously licensed during the past ten years and surrender all out-of-state driver licenses (current or expired), if any.
- Certify that they do not have a driver license from more than one state or country.
- Notify their home state Department of Motor Vehicles of any conviction which occurred in other states within 30 days of the conviction.
- Notify their employer of any conviction within 30 days of the conviction using form Report of Traffic Conviction (DL 535).
- Notify their employer of any revocation, suspension, cancellation, or disqualification before the end of the business day following the action.
- Give their employer a 10-year employment history of commercial driving, if applying for a job as a driver.
Sanctions/Disqualifications
Please see the charts at the end of this section for required sanctions and disqualifications.
Violation Point Counts
The department keeps a public record of all your traffic convictions and accidents for 36 months or longer. A traffic conviction for driving unsafely counts as one point. Any accident you contributed to or were responsible or at fault for, is normally counted as one point.
If you are convicted of reckless driving, of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, or of hit-and-run driving, you are charged two points.
A violation received in a commercial vehicle carries one and one-half times the point count. A Class A or B driver who does not have a special certificate or an endorsement may be allowed two additional points before being considered a negligent operator.
If you get too many points, you lose your privilege to drive. You are considered a negligent operator of a commercial motor vehicle when your driving record shows the following point counts:
4 points in 12 months
6 points in 24 months
8 points in 36 months
You may be entitled to a higher point count (6, 8, or 10 points) if you request and appear for a hearing and if 4, 6, or 8 points were not obtained in a Class C vehicle.
A violation received in a commercial vehicle carries one and one-half times the point count. A Class A or B driver who does not have a special certificate or an endorsement may be allowed two additional points before being considered a negligent operator.
Convictions reported by other states are added to your driving record and may result in license sanctions.
NOTE: Commercial drivers may not attend a traffic violator school to have an offense dismissed for any traffic violation. (VC §42005[c])
All commercial drivers must know the state laws limiting the size and weight of vehicles and loads. All commercial vehicles must stop at locations posted for CHP testing and inspection. (VC §§2802 – 2805, 2813)
Any officer, who has reason to believe that a commercial vehicle is not safely loaded or that the height, width, length, or weight of a vehicle and load is unlawful, is authorized to require the driver to stop and submit to an inspection, measurement, or weighing of the vehicle. The officer may have the driver stop in a suitable area and reload or remove any part of the load.
Any person driving a commercial vehicle over a highway or bridge illegally is liable for all damage caused to the highway or bridge. When the driver is not the owner of the vehicle but is operating it with the permission of the owner, the owner and driver may both have to pay for the damage.
Commercial diesel-fueled vehicles with a GVWR greater than 10,000 pounds are subject to the following idling restrictions effective February 1, 2005. You may not:
- idle the vehicle’s primary diesel engine for greater than five minutes at any location. (For exceptions visit the California Air Resources Board website at: www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/idling/idling.htm)
- operate a diesel-fueled auxiliary power system which powers a heater, air conditioner, or any additional equipment for sleeper-berth equipped vehicles during sleeping or resting periods for greater than five minutes at any location within 100 feet of a restricted area.
Drivers are subject to both civil and criminal penalties for violations of this regulation.
The California Air Resources Board conducts random inspections of heavy duty trucks and buses at CHP weigh stations. They inspect for emissions and tampering of emission systems. Penalties for failing the emissions inspection or for tampering with emission systems start at $300. For further information visit www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/hdvip/hdvip.htm or call 1-800-END-SMOG.
Length Of Vehicle/Loads—Single Vehicles
The maximum length for a single vehicle is 40 feet. This length may be exceeded by parts complying with fender and mudguard provisions of the California Vehicle Code.
NOTE: Some vehicles are conditionally exempted from the 40 foot maximum length (i.e., semitrailers, buses, housecars).
The front bumper of a vehicle must not extend more than two feet ahead of fenders, cab, or radiator, whichever is foremost.
On a bus, a front and/or rear safety bumper may extend an additional foot, and a wheel chairlift may extend up to 18 inches ahead of the bus. Additional extensions up to 36 inches in front or ten feet in the rear of some buses maybe added to transport bicycles.
Length Of Vehicle/Loads—Combination Vehicles
In a combination of vehicles, auxiliary parts or equipment which do not provide space for carrying a load or are not used to support or carry the vehicle may exceed the single vehicle length limit, but the combination may not exceed the length limit for combinations.
An articulated bus or trolley coach cannot exceed a length of 60 feet.
A semitrailer being towed by a motor truck or truck tractor may exceed 40 feet when certain conditions are met. (VC §35400b[4])
A combination of a truck tractor and a trailer coupled together shall not exceed a total length of 65 feet except as provided in VC §§35401 and 35401.5.
A combination of vehicles consisting of a truck tractor, a semitrailer, and a trailer cannot be longer than 75 feet, providing the length of either trailer does not exceed 28 feet 6 inches.
If posted, cities and counties may prohibit a combination of vehicles in excess of 60 feet in length on highways they control.
Other exceptions can be found in VC §35401.5. Extension devices are allowed with restrictions. See VC §35402.
The load length on any vehicle or combination of vehicles may not be more than 75 feet long measured from the front of vehicle or load to the back of vehicle or load.
Length Exceptions
Some length exceptions are listed below:
- If the load consists only of poles, timbers, pipes,
integral structural materials, or single unit component
parts, including: missile components, aircraft assemblies,
drilling equipment, and tanks not exceeding 80 feet
in length; provided they are being transported on
one of the following:
— pole or pipe dolly or other legal trailer used as a pole or pipe dolly pulled by a motor vehicle.
— semitrailer.
— semitrailer and a pole or pipe dolly pulled by a truck tractor to haul flexible integral structural material. (VC §35414) - Public utilities. Refer to VC §35414(B) for load exceptions.
- The load on any vehicle or combination of vehicles must not extend more than three feet beyond the foremost part of the front bumper or tires. There are exceptions for booms or masts of shovels or cranes, or water well drilling and servicing equipment. (VC §35407) A load composed solely of vehicles may extend four feet ahead of the front tires or the front bumper.
- The load on any single vehicle may not extend to the rear, beyond the last point of support, more than two-thirds the length of the wheel base of the vehicle. On a semitrailer, the wheelbase extends from the center of the last axle of the towing vehicle to the center of the last axle on the semitrailer.
Width Of Vehicles And Loads
The outside width of the body of the vehicle or load must not exceed 102 inches (8½ feet). The width of a vehicle with pneumatic (air filled) tires, measured from the outside of one wheel to the outside of the opposite wheel, must not exceed 108 inches (9 feet).
Permitted devices limited to door handles, hinges, cable cinchers, chain binders, and placard holders may extend three inches (six inches on one side for vehicles used for recreational purposes) on each side of the vehicle or load.
Required devices limited to lights, mirrors, or other devices may extend up to 10 inches on each side.
Cities and counties may post highways, which they control, to permit wider vehicles, but may also prohibit vehicles wider than 96 inches (8 feet).
Special mobile equipment and special construction and highway maintenance equipment may not be more than 120 inches (10 feet) wide.
Motor coaches or buses may be 102 inches wide. When operated by common carriers for hire in urban or suburban service, they may be 104 inches wide.
When a vehicle is carrying loosely piled agricultural products such as hay, straw, or leguminous plants in bulk rather than crated, baled, boxed, or stacked, the load and the racks that hold the load, may be no more than 120 inches wide.
A special trip permit may be obtained from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to transport trusses and similar one piece construction components up to 12 feet wide. (VC §35780)
Variances for Farm Equipment. (VC §§36000 and 36600) Implements of husbandry (farm equipment) are generally exempted from width and length limitations if they are being operated, transported, or towed over a highway incidental to normal farming operations. Owners and operators of such equipment should refer to the Vehicle Code provisions which apply. A Caltrans transportation permit may be necessary.
Height Of Vehicles And Loads
The vehicle height limit and/or load limit, measured from the surface of the roadway on which the vehicle stands, is 14 feet.
Exceptions:
- Double deck buses may not exceed 14 feet, 3 inches.
- Farming equipment moved incidentally over a highway.
Weight Limits—General
Caltrans has authority to post signs at bridges and along state highways stating the maximum weight they will sustain. Such weight may be greater or lesser than the maximum weight limits for a vehicle specified in the Vehicle Code. (VC §35550-557)
Counties and cities may post higher or lower weight limits along highways and at bridges they control. Alternate routes may be given for vehicles which are too heavy for posted highways and bridges.*
* Weight limitations by local ordinance do not prevent commercial vehicles from entering posted streets or highways by direct route to (a) make pickups or deliveries of goods, wares, and merchandise, (b) deliver materials for bona fide construction, repair, etc. of a structure for which a permit has been obtained, or (c) make public utility construction or repairs.
Axle Weight Limits
The gross weight which can be carried by the wheels of any one axle must not exceed 20,000 pounds (20,500 pounds for buses). Additionally, the load limit stated by the tire manufacturer (molded on at least one sidewall) shall not be exceeded.
The weight carried by the wheel or wheels on one end of an axle must not exceed 10,500 pounds. This limitation does not apply to vehicles transporting livestock. (VC §35550)
Combinations of vehicles made up of a trailer or semitrailer, and each vehicle in the combination, must meet either the weight provisions of VC §35551 or the following:
- The gross weight placed on a highway by the wheels on any one axle of a vehicle must not exceed 18,000 pounds. The gross weight on any one wheel, or wheels, supporting one end of an axle and resting on a roadway must not exceed 9,500 pounds.
- Exceptions:
— the gross weight placed on a highway by the wheels on any front steering axle of a motor vehicle must not exceed 12,500 pounds.
— vehicles carrying livestock are exempt from the gross weight limit which applies to a wheel at one end of an axle.
A complete listing of vehicles exempt from front axle weight limits can be found in VC §35551.5(b).
The total gross weight, with load, placed on a highway by any two or more consecutive axles of a combination of vehicles, or a vehicle in the combination, where the distance between the first and last axles of the two or more consecutive axles is 18 feet or less, must not exceed that given for the respective distance as shown in the table in VC §35551.5(c).
When the distance between the first and last axles is more than 18 feet, use the table shown in VC §35551.5(d).
Weight Limit—Logs
Weight limits for vehicles transporting logs are contained in VC §§35552 and 35785. Such additional weight may not be transported on interstate highways.
Height To Axle Ratio (VC §35551)
Highways and bridges are designed to carry only a certain amount of weight per foot of distance between axles. Vehicles carrying heavy loads must not put too much weight on any point. The Vehicle Code shows limitations in the tables found in VC §§35551 and 35551.5.
The total gross weight in pounds placed on the highway by any group of two or more consecutive axles must not exceed that given for the respective distance in that table.
In addition to the weight specified in the previously mentioned table, two consecutive sets of tandem axles may carry a gross weight of 34,000 pounds each, if the distance between the first and last axles of the sets of axles is 36 feet or more. The gross weight on each set of tandem axles must not exceed 34,000 pounds and the gross weight on two consecutive sets of tandem axles must not exceed 68,000 pounds. (VC §35551[b])
Loading/Unloading (VC §35553)
Load limits are not enforced when vehicles are loading or unloading in the immediate vicinity of a loading or unloading area.
A driver moving a load under a special permit may not change the route. Exception: to avoid violating a local city traffic regulation, the driver may detour the route on nonresidential streets only and return to the route as soon as possible.
Penalties For Weight Restriction Violations
A driver who changes from the permitted route for an extralegal load, without a peace officer's authorization to do so, is guilty of a misdemeanor.
CHP Uniform Weight Standard
A standard for enforcing weight laws has been established by the CHP. The standard states, “Vehicles weighing in excess of the legal limits by 100 pounds or more shall not be permitted to proceed until the overload has been adjusted or removed.”
In practice, CHP will allow for a 200 pound variation factor. After applying the variation factor, any vehicle exceeding the axle weight, axle group weight, or gross weight limits by 100 pounds or more will be issued a citation and required either to adjust the load to make it legal or obtain an overweight permit before proceeding.
Hazardous materials cargoes may be allowed to proceed unless unloading or load adjustment can be handled with reasonable safety to the driver and the public.
Livestock and field-loaded bulk perishable agricultural products destined for human consumption being transported from the field to the first point of processing have a special exemption. The vehicles transporting livestock and perishable agricultural products will be cited and allowed to proceed as long as the weight does not exceed legal limits by 1,000 pounds on any axle or axle group of a single truck or 2,000 pounds gross weight on a combination of vehicles.
Permits
Transporting an oversize extralegal load without a permit is punishable by a $500 fine or six months in jail or both. Also, excess load penalties may be imposed.
It is against the law in California to drive or move, on any street or highway, any vehicle which is wider, higher, or heavier than the limits described here. Permits for oversized vehicles may be obtained from:
- Caltrans—for state highways
- The city or county—for city or county highways.
Motor Carrier Permits
Any person who operates any commercial motor vehicle either for hire or privately (not for hire) must obtain a motor carrier permit (MCP). (VC §34620)
The MCP definition for a commercial motor vehicle is any:
- Self-propelled vehicle listed in VC §34500(a), (b), (f), (g), and (k).
- Motor truck with two or more axles weighing more than 10,000 lbs. GVWR.
- Other motor vehicle used to transport property
for hire.
NOTE: An MCP commercial motor vehicle does not include vehicles operated by household goods carriers (PUC §5109), pickup trucks (VC §471), or two-axle daily rental trucks (noncommercial use) weighing less than 26,001 lbs. gross.
To obtain MCP forms and information, contact www.dmv.ca.gov or write or call:
DMV MCP M/S G875
PO Box 932370
Sacramento, CA 94232-3700
(916) 657-8153
Speed Limits
| The maximum speed limit in California is 55 miles per hour (mph) for the following listed vehicles (VC §22406): |  |
- Any truck or truck tractor having three or more axles.
- Any vehicle pulling any other vehicle.
- A school bus transporting any pupil.
- A farm labor vehicle transporting passengers.
- Any vehicle transporting explosives.
- A trailer bus
For all other vehicles, the maximum speed limit on most California highways is 65 mph. However, for two-lane undivided highways, the maximum speed limit is 55 mph, unless posted for a higher speed. On some highways the maximum speed limit is 70 mph, but only if there are signs posted showing 70 mph.
No person shall drive at such a slow speed as to impede or block normal and reasonable movement of traffic, except when reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or for compliance with the law or when the size and weight of the vehicle or combination makes reduced speed unavoidable.
Right Lane Rule
Vehicles listed in VC §22406 must be driven in the designated lane or lanes when signs are posted.
When no signs are posted, these vehicles must be driven in the right-hand traffic lane or as close as possible to the right edge or curb. On a divided highway with four or more traffic lanes in one direction, these vehicles may also be driven in the lane just to the left of the right hand lane. When overtaking or passing another vehicle going in the same direction, drivers of such vehicles must use either: (1) the designated lane, (2) the lane just to the left of the right-hand lane, or (3) the right-hand traffic lane when such use is permitted.
Designated System Access
This does not apply to a driver who is: (1) preparing for a left- or right-hand turn, (2) in the process of entering or exiting a highway, or (3) driving in a lane other than the right-hand lane "to continue on the intended route."
Buses, except school buses or trailer buses, may drive in any lane as long as they are not towing any other vehicle.
Movement off or onto the designated (freeways/highways) system by larger trucks is allowed only at interchanges or exits which have the following signs:
Movement is allowed along signed routes to reach terminals. Terminals are locations where:
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Movement is allowed up to one mile from the identified exits or entrances leading to or from specified highways to obtain:
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Slow Vehicle Rule
On a two-lane highway where passing is unsafe, a slow-moving vehicle with five or more vehicles behind it must turn off the roadway at the nearest place designated by signs as a turnout, or wherever sufficient area for a safe turnout exists, to let the following vehicles pass.
Hours Of Service
You are required to comply with California's driver hours of service regulations when you are involved in INTRAstate commerce. You are considered to be involved in intrastate commerce when you do not:
- Cross the state line.
- Transport cargo which originated from another state.
- Transport cargo destined outside of California.
- Transport any hazardous substance or waste. (49 CFR 171.8)
You are required to comply with federal hours of service regulations when you are involved in INTERstate commerce. You are considered to be involved in interstate commerce when the cargo you transport:
- Originates out of state.
- Is destined out of state.
- Consists of hazardous substances or wastes. (49 CFR 171.8)
- Any combination of the above.
Driver's Record Of Duty Status
The California Highway Patrol is authorized to develop additional safety and driving regulations. (VC §§34501 and 34501.2)
A driver’s record of duty status must be used to record all of the driver’s hours. Drivers of commercial vehicles must be in compliance with the hours of service requirements of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 49, §395.8 and the California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 13, §§1201–1213.
A driver’s record of duty status, in duplicate, must be kept by each driver and each co-driver while driving, on duty but not driving, or resting in a sleeper berth. The record of duty status must be presented for inspection immediately upon request by any authorized CHP employee, any regularly employed and salaried police officer, or deputy sheriff. There may be instances when you do not need to maintain a record of duty status.
| Condition | Federal (Interstate commerce) | California (Intrastate commerce) |
|---|---|---|
| Driving time | You may not drive for more than 11 hours following 10 consecutive hours off duty. | You may not drive for more than 12 hours following 8 consecutive hours off duty. |
| On duty time | You may not drive beyond the 14th hour after coming on duty following 10 hours off duty. You may perform work, except for driving, after being on duty for 14 hours. | You may not drive after having been on duty for 15 hours. You may perform work, except for driving, after being on duty for 15 hours. |
| Multiple day on duty time limitations | You are not eligible to drive after having been on duty for 60 hours in a 7-day period. However, if a motor carrier has commercial motor vehicles operating 7 days a week, the driver is not eligible to drive after having been on duty for 70 hours in an 8-day period. A driver may restart a 7/8 consecutive day period after taking 34 or more consecutive hours off duty. | You are not eligible to drive after having been on duty for 80 hours in any 8 consecutive day period or if transporting farm products after having been on duty 112 hours in any consecutive 8-day period. |
| Off duty time |
After driving for 11 hours or being on duty for 14 hours, you may not drive again until you have had 10 consecutive hours off duty Exception: If the truck is quipped with a sleeper berth, these 10 hours may be broken up into 2 periods provided neither is less than 2 hours. |
After driving for 12 hours or being on duty for 15 hours, you may not drive again until you have had 8 consecutive hours off duty. Exception: If the truck is equipped with a sleeper berth, these 8 hours may be broken up into 2 periods provided neither period is less than 2 hours. |
| Adverse driving condition | You may drive an additional 2 hours if you encounter adverse weather conditions which were not apparent at the start of the trip. | You may drive an additional
2 hours if you encounter adverse weather conditions
which were not apparent at the start of the trip.
Regardless of the adverse conditions, you are not allowed to drive for more than 14 hours or after having been on duty more than 15 hours. |
NOTE: The changes to hours of service
(HOS) rules do not affect bus drivers, at this time.
For up-to-date HOS rules, visit www.fmcsa.dot.gov
or www.chp.ca.gov.
Accident Reporting
Every driver involved in an accident which results in death, injury, or property damage over $750 must report the accident on a Report of Traffic Accident (Form SR 1) to DMV. The report forms are available at DMV and CHP offices.
You (or your authorized representative) must submit the report within 10 days of the accident whether you caused the accident or not and even if the accident occurred on private property. This form is required in addition to any other report made to or by the police, CHP, or your insurance company if the accident resulted in any damage over $750 and/or an injury or death. If you do not report the accident to DMV, your driving privilege will be suspended.
California law states that you must notify your employer within five days if you have an accident while driving your employer’s vehicle. (VC §16002) However, your employer may require you to notify him or her immediately.
Financial Responsibility Requirements
Motor Carriers of Property. Most commercial vehicles transporting property are under the regulation of the Department of Motor Vehicles, whose liability and property damage requirements are listed below. The following limits do not apply to pickup trucks as defined in VC §471 and two-axle daily rental trucks with a GVWR less than 26,001 pounds when operated in noncommercial use.
- Transporting general freight exclusively in vehicles under 10,000 pounds GVWR: $300,000 combined single limit.
- Transporting general freight in vehicles having a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or more: $750,000 combined single limit.
- Transporting petroleum products in bulk on the highways: $500,000 for injury or death of one person, $1,000,000 for injury or death to two or more persons, $200,000 for damage to property, or $1,200,000 combined single limit.
- Transporting oil, hazardous materials or waste: combined single limit of $1,000,000.
- Transporting hazardous substances, compressed gas, liquefied compressed gas in cargo tanks, portable tanks, or hopper type vehicles with capacities in excess of 3,500 water gallons; or transporting Class A or B explosives, poison gas, or highway route controlled quantities of radioactive materials: combined single limit of $5,000,000.
Information on transporting hazardous materials or wastes may be obtained from the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and the CHP.
NOTE: Not all coverage requirements are listed in this section. For questions related to motor carriers, call the DMV Motor Carrier Permit Branch at (916) 657-8153.
Financial responsibility may be maintained by one of the following:
- An MCP Certificate of Insurance (DMV 65).
- A surety bond.
- Qualifying as a self-insurer.
Whenever DMV determines or is notified that a motor carrier's certificate of insurance or surety bond will lapse or end, DMV will suspend the permit. (VC §34630[c]) To avoid permit suspension, ask your insurance provider to submit evidence of valid liability coverage.
Proof Of FR Before A Driving Test
Drivers must show evidence of financial responsibility prior to taking the driving test. In addition to the list above, evidence is also met if the vehicle(s):
- Displays a CAL-T number issued to highway carriers by the PUC.
- Displays the CA number issued by CHP and DMV for the Motor Carrier Permit.
- Is owned, or leased by, or under the direction of, the United States or any public entity (displays "E" plates).
A driver is disqualified from operating
a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) if convicted of
any of the following offenses while operating either
a COMMERCIAL or NONCOMMERCIAL motor vehicle (non-CMV): |
|||||
Offense |
1 st conviction or DUI test refusal
in CMV |
1 st conviction or DUI test refusal
in non-CMV |
1 st conviction or DUI test refusal
in CMV transporting Hazmat |
2 nd conviction or DUI test refusal
in separate incident of any of these offenses in
CMV |
2 nd conviction or DUI test refusal
in separate incident of any of these offenses in
non-CMV |
Under the influence of alcohol |
1 year |
1 year |
3 years |
Life |
Life |
Under the influence of controlled
substance |
1 year |
1 year |
3 years |
Life |
Life |
BAC of 0.04% or higher while
operating CMV |
1 year |
Not applicable |
3 years |
Life |
Not applicable |
Refusing to take DUI test required
by implied consent laws |
1 year |
1 year |
3 years |
Life |
Life |
Leaving the scene of an accident |
1 year |
1 year |
3 years |
Life |
Life |
Using vehicle in felony not involving
a controlled substance |
1 year |
1 year |
3 years |
Life |
Life |
Driving CMV while DL is revoked,
suspended, or canceled or when disqualified from
operating a CMV |
1 year |
Not applicable |
3 years |
Life |
Not applicable |
Negligent operation of CMV causing
a fatality |
1 year |
Not applicable |
3 years |
Life | |