However, it is illegal to overtake and pass other vehicles when driving on the shoulder. The Criminal Code of Canada applies to drivers of vehicles both on and off the highway. It is illegal to operate a farm tractor or a self-propelled implement of husbandry on or off the highway when impaired by alcohol or drugs. A subsequent offence incurs a minimum of one year's prohibition. A CVOR identifies those responsible for the operation of commercial motor vehicles having a registered gross weight of more than 4500 kilograms and the conduct of their drivers.
Farm plated vehicles are commercial motor vehicles.
For further information, contact the Carrier Control Office - Toronto. The regulation gives the busy farmer more freedom in assigning full or part-time helpers to drive his farm vehicle, e.g. during seeding or harvest time. Farmers must ensure that dangerous goods are transported in accordance with the Act and Regulations. While there are several exemptions provided in the regulations for the transportation of dangerous goods used in farming, there are many farm chemicals, fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, fuels, gases, etc., which may require special documentation, safety markers and driver training. Information regarding the regulations, as they apply to farming operations, can be obtained from any Ministry of Transportation District Office.