Source: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/cdl_htm/sec1.htm
Timestamp: 2014-03-09 02:15:20
Document Index: 643317207

Matched Legal Cases: ['§391', 'art 73', '§353', '§25163', '§2512', '§336', '§545', '§12517', '§546', '§322', '§680', '§4512', '§12523', '§12517', '§231', '§27903', '§2802', '§35400', '§35401', '§35401', '§35402', '§35414', '§35414', '§35407', '§35780', '§36000', '§35550', '§35550', '§35551', '§35551', '§35551', '§35551', '§35552', '§35551', '§35551', '§34620', '§5109', '§471', '§22406', '§22406', '§34501', '§395', '§1201', '§16002', '§471']

Section 1: Introduction 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 require-ments 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. The commercial driving test will be administered in the English language only. This is pur-suant to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations §§391.11(b)(2) and 383.133(c)(5).
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.
This handbook will help you pass the written and skills tests. However, this handbook is not a substitute for a truck driver training class or program. Formal training is the most reliable way to learn the many special skills required for safely driving a large commercial vehicle and becoming a professional driver in the trucking industry.
A commercial motor vehicle is a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles that:
Has three or more axles (excludes three-axle vehicles weighing 6,000 pounds or less gross).
Is any size vehicle which requires hazardous material placards or is carrying material listed as a select agent or toxin in 42 CFR part 73.*
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 15-passenger 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.
A special endorsement is also required to drive the following types of vehicles. The en-dorsement shows as a single letter on the driver license.
Tank vehicles (including a cement truck)­­—(N).
Tank vehicles transporting hazardous materials or wastes–(X). (Hazardous waste must meet the definition of CVC §§353 and 15278.)
Firefighter—(F) (not required but optional for commercial class A or B license holders.)
* Drivers subject to the commercial driver sanctions.
Persons exempted under Health and Safety Code §25163.
Noncivilian military personnel operating military vehicles.
Implement of husbandry operators who are not required to have a driver license.
Ambulance Driver Certificate-required for driving an ambulance used commercially in emergency service (CVC §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)* Certificate—exempts persons who transport hazardous waste or placarded loads from CDL requirements if the:
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.
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 driver certificate or school pupil activity bus certificate do not need a VTT.
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) (CVC §§336 and 12523.5).
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 (CVC §§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 (CVC §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 (CVC §§546 and 12517).
Farm Labor Vehicle Certificate*—required to drive farm labor trucks and buses (CVC §§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) (CVC §§680 and 12523).
Tow Truck Driver Certificate*—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 CVC §12523.6).
May drive for hire within California if you are 18 years of age or older and do not engage in interstate commerce activities.
A completed Commercial Driver License
Application (DL 44C) 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.), licensed doctor of osteopathy (D.O.), licensed physician's assistant (P.A.), registered advanced practice nurse (APN), or licensed 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, licensed physician's assistant, or a registered advanced practice nurse (CVC §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 MS G204
PO Box 942890 Sacramento, CA 94290-0001
You will be given a Medical Certificate Card (DL 51A) to carry when you drive com-mercially. 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.
If you must have a CDL as part of your job, your employer shall pay the cost of the ex-amination 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 (CVC §27903).
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 social security number (SSN). Your SSN will be verified with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office. A Certificate of Driving Skill (DL 170 ETP) 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 three attempts to pass the written knowledge test and 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
an originalno prior California DL (with/without a driving test) $66
an originalprior California DL (with/without a driving test)
to remove a restriction(s) imposed due to vehicle size or equipment $66
to add a passenger transport endorsement
a driving or skill retest fee
a renewal by mail or internet
add an endorsement other than PV
add noncommercial Class A to a Class B
add Class M1/M2
Commercial Class C an originalprior California DL (with/without a driving test) $39
a renewal $39
add an endorsement not requiring a driving test
remove an air brake restriction
You must take and pass vision, knowledge (law), and performance (pre-trip, skills, 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:
General Knowledge Test, for all Class A, B, and commercial C 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.
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 Cali-fornia.)
Firefighter Endorsement Test, to operate firefighting equipment. (Not required but optional for commercial class A or B license holders).
NOTE: Your law and/or endorsement test(s) will not be returned to you.
You may take the law test at any DMV office. Office hours vary. Please go online at www.dmv.ca.gov or call 1-800-777-0133 to make an appointment.
After passing the required knowledge test(s), you must schedule a CDL performance test which includes 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.
Use of Testing Aids Prohibited The use of testing aids is strictly prohibited during the knowledge test. This includes, but is not limited to: the California Commercial Driver Handbook, cheat sheets, or electronic communication devices such as a cell phone, hand-held computer, etc. If any testing aid(s) or a substitute test taker is used during the written test, the written test will be marked as a "failure." An action may also be taken by DMV against your driving privilege or the driving privilege of anyone else who assists the applicant in the examination process.
During the pre-trip inspection the department does not allow the use of testing aids other than the vehicle inspection guide in this handbook. If you are caught using anything other than the inspection guides, the commercial driving test will be marked as a failure. The use of electronic devices such as cell phones, blue tooth, CB radios, etc. is pro-hibited during the commercial driving test. Also people waiting in the testing vicinity are prohibited from using hand signals and shouting instructions. If this occurs, the test will be discontinued and be marked as a commercial drive test failure. If markings are found on the vehicle being used for the test to help with passing the pre-trip or skills test, including but not limited to: writing on the vehicle, tape, paint markings that do not appear like they belong, or markings on the curbs, walls, or trees that would help the applicant maneuver the vehicle for the skills test, the test will be discontinued and will be marked as a failure.
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 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 re-taking the pre-trip tests on the same application. See Section 11 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 skills retest. See Section 12 for skill test information.
Driving test. You drive on a DMV-specified route. The test takes about 45 to 60 minutes and includes left and right turns, intersections, railroad crossings, curves, 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 13 for driving test information.
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.
Disclose all states in which they were previously licensed during the past ten years and sur-render 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.
Please see these charts for required sanctions and disqualifications.
You may not drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) if you are disqualified for any reason.
You will lose your CDL for at least three years if the offense occurs while you are operating a CMV that is placarded for hazardous materials. You will lose your CDL for life for a second offense. You will lose your CDL for life if you use a CMV to commit a felony involving controlled substances.
You will be put out-of-service for 24 hours if you have any detectable amount of alcohol un-der .04%. Serious Traffic Violations
Violation of Out-of-Service Orders You will lose your CDL for at least:
All drivers failing to have sufficient space to drive completely through the crossing without stopping. All drivers failing to obey a traffic control device or the directions of an enforcement official at the crossing.
Are considered to pose a security threat as determined by the Transportation Security Ad-ministration (TSA).
For more information you can go online at hazprints.tsa.dhs.gov or call 1-877-429-7746.
The Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act (MCSIA) of 1999 requires a CDL holder to be disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle if the CDL holder has been con-victed of certain types of moving violations in their personal vehicle.
If your privilege to operate your personal vehicle is revoked, cancelled, or suspended: Due to violations of traffic control laws (other than parking violations) you will also lose your CDL driving privileges.
Convictions that occur while you are driving a commercial vehicle or as a holder of a com-mercial driver license are retained on your driving record as listed below: Major violations and disqualification actions, 55 years.
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.
Convictions reported by other states are added to your driving record and may result in li-cense sanctions. If you have an out-of-state CDL, any conviction while operating in Califor-nia will be reported to your home state.
Arleta | Bakersfield | Bishop | Capitola | Compton | El Centro | Eureka | Fremont | Fresno CDL Driving Center | Fullerton | Lancaster | Modesto | Montebello | Rancho San Diego | Redding | Salinas | San Bernardino CDL Driving Test Center | San Luis Obispo | Santa Barbara | Santa Rosa | Santa Teresa | Stockton | Torrance | Ukiah | Vallejo | Ventura | W Sacramento CDL Driving Test Center | Yuba City
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 (CVC §§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.
ALL diesel vehicles and equipment operating in California, even those based out-of-state, are currently subject to the following emission reduction requirements. For more information on each regulation, visit the Air Resources Board (ARB) webpage at www.arb.ca.gov/truckstop or call 1-866-6DIESEL (1-866-634-3735).
Heavy duty vehicles in California are subject to opacity test requirements that are verified by random roadside inspections of engine smoke emissions and tampering. For more information, see www.arb.ca.gov/enf/hdvip/hdvip_pamphlet.pdf.
Engine Emission Control Labels (ECL)
All heavy duty commercial vehicles need to have proof that their engines meet emissions requirements at least as stringent as U.S. federal standards for the engine model year. A properly affixed and legible manufacturer emission control label is required as proof that the engine meets these standards. For more information, see www.arb.ca.gov/enf/advs/advs364.pdf.
This program applies to California based fleets with two or more heavy duty vehicles. Requires fleets to perform smoke opacity tests for their vehicles each year and to maintain records for a minimum of two years. There are some exceptions to the annual requirement. For more information, see www.arb.ca.gov/enf/hdvip/psip_pamphlet.pdf.
Commercial Idling Requirements
These requirements prohibit commercial diesel vehicles greater than 10,000 GVWR from idling longer than five minutes. When at or within 100 feet of a school, engines of all fuel types must shut down immediately upon arrival and restart no later than 30 seconds before leaving. Penalties start at $300. For more information, see www.arb.ca.gov/noidle or www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/sbidling/sbidling.htm.
Retrofit/Upgrade Requirements
The following NEW requirements for trucks and buses will further reduce diesel exhaust and greenhouse gas emissions. These reductions require the retrofit and/or upgrade of existing vehicles and equipment.
Trucks and Buses (Private and Federal Fleets)
The Truck and Bus Rule requires the clean up of existing diesel engines used in most diesel trucks and buses with a GVWR over 14,000 pounds, including agricultural yard trucks equipped with off-road certified engines. For more information, see www.arb.ca.gov/dieseltruck. Clean-up requirements are based on the engine model year (MY) and the GVWR of the vehicle. Any person or business residing in California who sells an affected vehicle must provide a disclosure notice about the regulation to the buyer.
Heavier vehicles with a GVWR more than 26,000 lbs. need engine upgrades as shown in the schedule below (no reporting is required). More flexible compliance options are available to owners that choose to report fleet information by the March 30, 2012 deadline.
PM Filter*
*50% PM reduction can be used if 85% reduction is not
Lighter vehicles with a GVWR 26,000 lbs. or less
need to be upgraded to 2010 model year engines
or to newer models as shown in the table below.
No retrofit PM filters or reporting is required.
Requirements for Drayage Trucks
Trucks (gvwr > 26,000 lbs.) that transport
cargos going to or coming from California's
ports and intermodal rail yards. Diesel-fueled
trucks that transport marine cargo, containers, or
transport chassis must be registered in the statewide
Drayage Truck Registry prior to port or rail yard
entry. For more information, call 888-247-4821
or see www.arb.ca.gov/drayagetruck. Drayage
trucks must comply as shown in the table. Retrofit
particulate matter (PM) filters must be verified by
the Air Resource Board to reduce PM by 85%.
Dray-off: It is illegal for a drayage truck to exchange
cargo with a noncompliant drayage truck outside
of port or intermodal rail yard property anywhere
Statewide Schedule for Class 8 Drayage Trucks with a GVWR > 33,000 lbs.
PM filter on 1994-2003 MY engines and Pre-1994 MY engines no longer allowed
PM filter on 2004 MY engines
PM filter on 2005-2006 MY engines
All must have 2007 MY engines and newer
All must have 2010 MY engines and newer
Statewide Schedule for Class 7 Drayage Trucks with a GVWR of 26,001-33,000 lbs.
PM filter on pre-2007 MY engines
* While Operating In the South Coast Air Basin
Requirements for Transport Refrigeration Units (TRU or Reefer)
Every California-based TRU and TRU generator
set must be registered and operator reports must
be submitted and kept current at https://arber.arb.ca.gov/Welcome.arb?prg=tru. All TRUs that operate
in California must also meet the in-use standards,
Compliance schedules to reduce PM emissions are
based on the engine's model year as shown in the
table below. Engines may be retrofit with diesel
particulate filters or replaced with newer, cleaner
engines but the replacement engines must then
comply with the appropriate in-use standard, based
on replacement engine model year. For example,
if an engine is replaced by a 2012 MY engine, it
must be upgraded to meet the in-use standard by
December 31, 2019. Engines have seven years after
the model year before upgrades are required. For
more information see: www.arb.ca.gov/diesel/tru/tru.htm.
TRU and TRU Generator Set Compliance Schedule
Low Emission TRU In-Use Standard (50% PM Reduction)
Ultra Low Emission TRU In-Use Standard (85% PM Reduction)
(<25 hp)
December 31st of the
model year +7 years
Tractor-Trailer Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Requirements
The Tractor-Trailer Greenhouse Gas regulation
applies to 53-foot or longer box-type trailers,
including both dry-van and refrigerated-van trailers,
and all heavy-duty tractors that pull them on
California highways. Any person or business residing
in California who sells an affected vehicle must
provide a disclosure notice about the regulation to
the buyer. Fleets must report to take advantage of
short haul, local haul or storage trailer exemptions
and passes. For more information see www.arb.ca.gov/cc/hdghg/hdghg.htm.
Low-rolling resistance tires are required on all 2011
MY or newer tractors and trailers, and are required
on older equipment as shown in the table below.
Requirements for 2010 MY and Older Equipment
All trailers (except 2003-2009 MY reefer trailers have until 2018-2020).
Smart Way aerodynamic requirements must currently
be met by all 2011 MY or newer sleeper-cab
tractors and trailers. Older trailers must meet the
Smart Way Aerodynamic Requirements
Requirements for 2010 MY and Older Trailers
Optional phase-in registration
deadline for fleets with 21 or more
deadline for small fleets with 20 or
fewer trailers.
All trailers are not using a phase-in
Length of Vehicle/Loads–Single Vehicle
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 (CVC).
Note: Some vehicles are conditionally exempted
from the 40-foot maximum length (e.g., 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 chair lift
may extend up to 18 inches ahead of the bus.
Additional extensions up to 36 inches in front or
10 feet in the rear of some buses may be 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
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 (CVC §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 CVC §§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 CVC §35401.5.
Extension devices are allowed with restrictions
(CVC §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.
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
pole or pipe dolly or other legal trailer
used as a pole or pipe dolly pulled by a
semitrailer and a pole or pipe dolly, pulled
by a truck tractor to haul flexible integral
structural material (CVC §35414).
Public utilities. Refer to CVC §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 (CVC §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.
The outside width of the body of the vehicle or
load must not exceed 102 inches (8 1/2 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 (6 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 (Cal-
Trans) to transport trusses and similar one-piece
construction components up to 12 feet wide (CVC
§35780.5).
Variances for farm equipment.
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 California
Vehicle Code provisions which apply. A CalTrans
transportation permit may be necessary (CVC
§§36000 and 36600).
The vehicle height limit and/or load limit, measured
from the surface of the roadway on which the
vehicle stands, is 14 feet.
Double deck buses may not exceed 14 feet,
Farming equipment moved incidentally over
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 California Vehicle Code (CVC §§35550-35557).
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.
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 (CVC §35550).
Combinations of vehicles made up of a trailer or
semitrailer, and each vehicle in the combination,
must meet either the weight provisions of CVC
§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.
the gross weight placed on a highway by
the wheels on any front steering axle of
a motor vehicle must not exceed 12,500
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
CVC §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
CVC §35551.5(c).
When the distance between the first and last axles
is more than 18 feet, use the table shown in CVC
§35551.5(d).
Weight Limit–Logs
Weight limits for vehicles transporting logs are
contained in CVC §§35552 and 35785. Such
additional weight may not be transported on
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 California
Vehicle Code shows limitations in the tables found
in CVC §§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 (CVC §35551(b)).
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.
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
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
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
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
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
Caltrans–for state highways
Any person who operates any commercial motor
vehicle either for hire or privately (not for hire)
must obtain a motor carrier permit (MCP) (CVC
§34620).
The MCP definition for a commercial motor
vehicle is any:
Motor truck with two or more axles weighing
more than 10,000 lbs. GVWR.
Other motor vehicle used to transport property
NOTE: An MCP commercial motor vehicle does
not include vehicles operated by household
goods carriers (PUC §5109), pickup trucks
(CVC §471), or two-axle daily rental trucks
(noncommercial use) weighing less than 26,001
lbs. gross.
To obtain MCP forms and information, go to www.dmv.ca.gov/mcs/mcs.htm or write or call:
Motor Carrier Services Branch MS G875
Sacramento, CA. 94232-3700
(916) 657-8153 Unified Carrier Registration (UCR)
Interstate or foreign motor carriers transporting
property are required to obtain UCR, as outlined
in the final regulations issued by the Federal
Unified Carrier Registration Act of 2005. UCR
fees can be paid online at www.ucr.in.gov.
To obtain UCR forms and information go to www.dmv.ca.gov/mcs/mcs.htm or write or call:
MCP MS G875
PO Box 932370 Sacramento, CA 94232-3700
The maximum speed limit in California
is 55 miles per hour (mph)
for the following listed vehicles
(CVC §22406): Any truck or truck tractor having three or
Any vehicle pulling any other vehicle./li> A school bus transporting any pupil.
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.
Vehicles listed in CVC §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 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
Movement off or onto the designated
(freeways/highways) system by
larger trucks is allowed only at
interchanges or exits which have the
Movement is allowed along signed routes to
reach terminals. Terminals are locations where: Freight is consolidated.
Full loads are off-loaded.
Vehicle combinations are regularly maintained,
stored, or manufactured.
Movement is allowed up to one
mile from the identified exits
or entrances leading to or from
specified highways to obtain: Food
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.
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:
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
Consists of hazardous substances or wastes. (49 CFR 171.8)
The California Highway Patrol is authorized to
develop additional safety and driving regulations
(CVC §§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.
Every driver involved in a collision which results
in death, injury, or property damage over $750
must report the collision on a Report of Traffic
Accident Occurring in California (SR 1) to DMV.
The report forms are available at www.dmv.ca.gov, or by calling 1-800-777-0133, or at CHP
and DMV offices.
You (or your authorized representative) must
submit the report within 10 days of the collision
whether you caused the collision or not and even
if the collision 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 collision resulted in any damage
over $750 and/or an injury or death. If you do not
report the collision to DMV, your driving privilege
NOTE: CDL holders may downgrade to a noncommercial
license during any mandatory suspension
period to be eligible to obtain a restricted license.
All tests and fees will be required to upgrade when
California law states that you must notify your
employer within five days if you have a collision
while driving your employer's vehicle (CVC
§16002). However, your employer may require
you to notify him or her immediately.
Condition Federal (Interstate commerce)
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 10 consecutive hours off duty.
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 16
hours. You may perform work, except for driving,
after being on duty for 16 hours.
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
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.
For truck drivers, any period of 8 consecutive days
may end with the beginning of any off-duty period
of 34 or more consecutive hours.
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 equipped with a
sleeper berth, these 10 hours may be broken
up into 2 periods provided one is not less than
After driving for 12 hours or being on duty for 16
hours, you may not drive again until you have had
10 consecutive hours off duty.
Exception: If the truck is equipped with a sleeper
berth, these 10 hours may be broken up into 2
periods, provided one period is not less than 8 hours.
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
Regardless of the adverse conditions, you are not
allowed to drive for more than 14 hours or after
having been on duty more than 16 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.
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 CVC §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 having a GVWR of 10,000 pounds
or less: $300,000 combined single limit.
Transporting general freight in vehicles having
a GVWR of 10,001 pounds or more: $750,000
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 Division 1.1, 1.2, or
1.3 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 liability
insurance for motor carriers, call the DMV Motor
Carrier Services Branch at (916) 657-8153.
Financial responsibility may be maintained by one
Certificate of Self Insurance Motor Carriers
of Property (MC 131 M).
Motor carriers must maintain evidence of insurance
on file during the active life of the permit. Whenever
DMV determines that a motor carrier's Certificate
of Insurance or surety bond has expired or been
cancelled, DMV will suspend the MCP. To avoid
MCP suspension, contact your insurance provider
to submit valid liability coverage.
Proof of FR Before a Driving Test
Drivers must show evidence of financial responsibility
prior to taking the driving test. Evidence
is met if the vehicle displays exempt plates or is
owned, leased by, or under the direction of, the
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):
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
BAC of 0.04% or higher while operating CMV
1 year Not applicable 3 years
Not applicable Refusing to take DUI test required by implied consent laws
Using vehicle in felony not involving a controlled substance
Driving CMV while DL is revoked, suspended, or canceled or when disqualified from operating a CMV
Not applicable Negligent operation of CMV causing a fatality
Not applicable Using vehicle in felony involving a controlled substance
2nd conviction in separate incident within 3 years of anyof these offenses in a CMV
Speeding 15 mph or more above the posted speed limit
Violating a traffic law which causes a fatal accident
Driving CMV without obtaining a CDL
Not applicable Driving CMV without CDL in possession
Not applicable 120 days
Not applicable Driving CMV without proper class CDL and/or endorsements
Not applicable Synopsis Table 2 Section 383.51 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
A driver is disqualified from operating a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) if convicted of any of the following RAILROADHIGHWAY
GRADE CROSSING offenses (either federal, state, or local):
2nd conviction in separate incident within 3 years of any of these offenses
3rd or subsequent conviction inseparate incident within 3 years of any of these offenses
NOTE: Regulations may not require the driver to stop.
No less than 60 days
No less than 120 days
No less than 1 year
NOTE: Regulations require the driver to stop.
Fails to allow enough space to completely cross the tracks without stopping.
Fails to obey traffic device or directions from a railroad crossing guard
Cannot cross tracks because of insufficient undercarriage clearance
A driver is disqualified from operating a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) if convicted of any of the following OUT-OFSERVICE
2nd conviction in separate incident within 10 years of any of these offenses
3rd or subsequent conviction in separate incident within 10 years of any of these offenses
Violates a driver or vehicle out-of-service
order while transporting non-HazMat
No less than 90 days or more than 1 year
No less than 1 year or more than 5 years
No less than 3 years or more than 5 years
order while transporting HazMat or 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
No less than 180 days or more than 2 years
No less that 3 years or more than 5 years
Table of Contents | Section 2: Driving Safely