A GUIDE TO THE MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY REGULATIONS IN

A GUIDE TO THE MOTOR CARRIER

SAFETY REGULATIONS IN

VERMONT

Agency of Transportation

Department of Motor Vehicles

Commercial Vehicle Enforcement

Please Note: Additional information regarding Federal Motor

Carrier Safety Regulations can be found on the Federal Motor

Carrier Safety Administration website at:

fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations

“With a commitment to excellence, the dedicated

employees of DMV strive to provide the highest level of

customer service through the administration of motor

vehicle laws and the promotion of highway safety.”

Integrity, Accountability, Professionalism and

Accuracy/Quality of Information are the DMV's Core

Values.

Wanda Minoli, Commissioner

PREFACE

This guide has been written based on Vermont laws and regulations.

Since the Vermont legislature convenes every year in January, the

information in this guide is subject to change. We have made every effort

to ensure that the information in this guide is correct and up-to-date.

This handbook is intended only as a guide and should not be taken as a

strict interpretation of the laws and regulations. Any comments or

suggestions concerning this guide should be addressed to:

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles

Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit

120 State Street

Montpelier, Vermont 05603-0001

802.828.2078

VN-166 01/2023 MT

Page | 1

Contents

Motor Carrier Safety Regulations ............................................................................ 2

Medical Qualifications ................................................................................................. 3

Special Equipment ....................................................................................................... 7

Commercial Motor Vehicle Crashes ........................................................................... 7

Record of Driver Duty Status (Logs) .......................................................................... 8

On Duty / Driving Time ............................................................................................. 11

Hazardous

Materials............................................................................................. 13

Hazardous or Solid Waste Permit .............................................................................. 14

Transportation for Hire .............................................................................................. 14

Common Carrier/Contract Carrier Definition ........................................................... 14

CDL Exemptions ........................................................................................................ 16

Legal Size and Weight ............................................................................................... 19

Weight Limitations..................................................................................................... 19

Size Limitations.......................................................................................................... 19

Oversize / Overweight Permits .................................................................................. 20

Types of Permits ........................................................................................................ 20

Penalties for Violations .............................................................................................. 20

International Registration Plan (IRP) ........................................................................ 22

IRP Fees ..................................................................................................................... 23

International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) ................................................................ 26

Qualifying Vehicles ................................................................................................... 26

Quarterly Report Penalties ......................................................................................... 29

Fuel Storage Tanks ..................................................................................................... 30

Federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (FHVUT) ............................................................... 32

Technical Assistance .................................................................................................. 34

Copies of Laws and Regulations ............................................................................... 34

Maximum Legal Limits for Weight and Dimensions ............................................ 35

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MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY REGULATIONS

How do I know if the Motor Carrier Safety Regulations apply to me?

The Motor Carrier Safety Regulations apply to all employers, employees,

and qualifying commercial motor vehicles which transport property or

passengers in interstate or intrastate commerce.

What is a “qualifying” commercial motor vehicle?

A commercial motor vehicle is any self-propelled or towed vehicle used

on public highways for transporting property or passengers in interstate

or intrastate commerce when:

a. (1) Interstate Operations – The vehicle, or combination of vehicles,

has a gross vehicle weight rating, or gross vehicle weight, of

10,001 pounds or more, or

(2) Intrastate Operations – The vehicle, or combination of vehicles,

has a gross vehicle weight rating, or gross vehicle weight, of

26,001 pounds or more, or

b. The vehicle is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, driver

included, or

c. The vehicle is used to transport hazardous materials in amounts that

must have placards.

Are there any qualifications for commercial vehicle drivers?

Yes, to be a commercial vehicle driver, you must:

 Be in good health;

 Be at least 21 years of age to drive interstate commerce;

 Have only one valid driver’s license;

 Speak and read English well enough to do your job and respond to

official questions;

 Be able to drive the vehicle safely;

 Be able to determine if the vehicle is safely loaded;

 Know how to block, brace, and tie down cargo;

Qualifications for Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers

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 Pass Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) knowledge and road tests

to drive interstate or intrastate commerce or carry hazardous

materials;

 Not be disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle;

 Possess a license.

Medical Qualifications

Must I carry proof that I am physically qualified to drive?

All interstate and intrastate carriers, subject to the Federal Motor Carrier

Safety Regulations (FMCSR), must carry a medical examiner certificate

as outlined in 49 CFR Part 391.41.

Are medical qualifications kept on file anywhere?

Yes, every motor carrier must have a qualification file of each regularly

employed driver. If you want information on setting up driver qualification

files you may call the Department of Motor Vehicles, Commercial Vehicle

Enforcement Unit at 802.828.2078.

What are all the medical requirements of 49 CFR Part 391.41?

§ 391.41: Physical qualifications for drivers.

(a)(1)(i) A person subject to this part must not operate a commercial motor

vehicle unless he or she is medically certified as physically qualified to do

so, and, except as provided in paragraph (a)(2) of this section, when on-

duty has on his or her person the original, or a copy, of a current medical

examiner's certificate that he or she is physically qualified to drive a

commercial motor vehicle. NOTE: Effective December 29, 1991, and as

amended on January 19, 2017, the FMCSA Administrator determined that

the Licencia Federal de Conductor issued by the United Mexican States

is recognized as proof of medical fitness to drive a CMV. The United

States and Canada entered into a Reciprocity Agreement, effective March

30, 1999, recognizing that a Canadian commercial driver's license is proof

of medical fitness to drive a CMV. Therefore, Canadian and Mexican CMV

drivers are not required to have in their possession a medical examiner's

certificate

the

driver

has

been

issued,

and

possesses,

valid

commercial driver license issued by the United Mexican States, or a

Canadian Province or Territory, and whose license and medical status,

including any waiver or exemption, can be electronically verified. Drivers

from any of the countries who have received a medical authorization that

Page | 4

(ii) A person who qualifies for the medical examiner's certificate by

virtue of having obtained a medical variance from FMCSA, in the

form of an exemption letter or a skill performance evaluation

certificate, must have on his or her person a copy of the variance

documentation when on-duty.

(2) CDL/CLP exception. (i)(A) Beginning on January 30, 2015 and

through June 22, 2025, a driver required to have a commercial

driver's

license under part 383 of this chapter, and who submitted a current

medical examiner's certificate to the State in accordance with 49 CFR

383.71(h) documenting that he or she meets the physical

qualification

requirements of this part, no longer needs to carry on his or her

person

the medical examiner's certificate specified at § 391.43(h), or a copy,

for more than 15 days after the date it was issued as valid proof of

medical certification.

(B) On or after June 23, 2025, a driver required to have a commercial

driver's license or a commercial learner's permit under 49 CFR part 383

and who has a current medical examiner's certificate documenting that

he or she meets the physical qualification requirements of this part, no

longer needs to carry on his or her person the medical examiner's

certificate specified at § 391.43(h).

(ii) Beginning on July 8, 2015, and through June 22, 2025, a driver

required to have a commercial learner's permit under part 383 of this

chapter, and who submitted a current medical examiner's certificate to the

State in accordance with § 383.71(h) of this chapter documenting that he

or she meets the physical qualification requirements of this part, no longer

needs to carry on his or her person the medical examiner's certificate

specified at § 391.43(h), or a copy for more than 15 days after the date it

was issued as valid proof of medical certification.

(iii) A CDL or CLP holder required by § 383.71(h) of this chapter to obtain

a medical examiner's certificate, who obtained such by virtue of having

obtained a medical variance from FMCSA, must continue to have in his

deviates from the mutually accepted compatible medical standards of the

resident country are not qualified to drive a CMV in the other countries.

For example, Canadian drivers who do not meet the medical fitness

provisions of the Canadian National Safety Code for Motor Carriers but

are issued a waiver by one of the Canadia

n Provinces or Territories, are

not qualified to drive a CMV in the United States. In addition, U.S.

drivers

who received a medical variance from FMCSA are not qualified to drive

CMV in Canada.

Page | 5

or her possession the original or copy of that medical variance

documentation at all times when on-duty.

(iv) In the event of a conflict between the medical certification information

provided electronically by FMCSA and a paper copy of the medical

examiner's certificate, the medical certification information provided

electronically by FMCSA shall control.

(3) A person is physically qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle if:

(i) That person meets the physical qualification standards in paragraph

(b) of this section and has complied with the medical examination

requirements in § 391.43; or

(ii) That person obtained from FMCSA a medical variance from the

physical qualification standards in paragraph (b) of this section and has

complied with the medical examination requirement in § 391.43.

(b) A person is physically qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle if

that person -

(1) Has no loss of a foot, a leg, a hand, or an arm, or has been granted a

skill performance evaluation certificate pursuant to § 391.49;

(2) Has no impairment of:

(i) A hand or finger which interferes with prehension or power grasping;

(ii) An arm, foot, or leg which interferes with the ability to perform normal

tasks associated with operating a commercial motor vehicle; or any other

significant limb defect or limitation which interferes with the ability to

perform normal tasks associated with operating a commercial motor

vehicle; or has been granted a skill performance evaluation certificate

pursuant to § 391.49;

(3) Has no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of diabetes

mellitus currently treated with insulin for control, unless the person meets

the requirements in § 391.46;

(4) Has no current clinical diagnosis of myocardial infarction, angina

pectoris, coronary insufficiency, thrombosis, or any other cardiovascular

disease of a variety known to be accompanied by syncope, dyspnea,

collapse, or congestive cardiac failure;

Page | 6

(5) Has no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of a

respiratory dysfunction likely to interfere with his/her ability to control and

drive a commercial motor vehicle safely;

(6) Has no current clinical diagnosis of high blood pressure likely to

interfere with his/her ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely;

(7) Has no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of rheumatic,

arthritic, orthopedic, muscular, neuromuscular, or vascular disease which

interferes with his/her ability to control and operate a commercial motor

vehicle safely;

(8) Has no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or

any other condition which is likely to cause loss of consciousness or any

loss of ability to control a commercial motor vehicle;

(9) Has no mental, nervous, organic, or functional disease or psychiatric

disorder likely to interfere with his/her ability to drive a commercial motor

vehicle safely;

(10)(i) Has distant visual acuity of at least 20/40 (Snellen) in each eye

without corrective lenses or visual acuity separately corrected to 20/40

(Snellen) or better with corrective lenses, distant binocular acuity of at

least 20/40 (Snellen) in both eyes with or without corrective lenses, field

of vision of at least 70° in the horizontal meridian in each eye, and the

ability to recognize the colors of traffic signals and devices showing

standard red, green, and amber; or

(ii) Meets the requirements in § 391.44, if the person does not satisfy, with

the worse eye, either the distant visual acuity standard with corrective

lenses or the field of vision standard, or both, in paragraph (b)(10)(i) of

this section;

(11) First perceives a forced whispered voice in the better ear at not less

than 5 feet with or without the use of a hearing aid or, if tested by use of

an audiometric device, does not have an average hearing loss in the

better ear greater than 40 decibels at 500 Hz, 1,000 Hz, and 2,000 Hz

with or without a hearing aid when the audiometric device is calibrated to

American National Standard (formerly ASA Standard) Z24.5 - 1951;

(12)(i) Does not use any drug or substance identified in 21 CFR

1308.11 Schedule I, an amphetamine, a narcotic, or other habit-forming

drug; or

Page | 7

What are the criteria for reporting a commercial motor vehicle

crash?

Special Equipment

Am I required to carry any special equipment?

Yes, according to 49 CFR Part 393.95, concerning emergency

equipment, every bus, truck, and truck tractor must be equipped with a

fire extinguisher, spare fuses, and warning devices for stopped vehicles

or three bi-directional emergency reflective triangles that meet the

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard requirement number 125. All

trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or

more must carry flares, flags, or emergency triangles to meet state

inspection requirements.

Is there any equipment that must be checked before each trip?

Yes, you must complete a pre-trip inspection: you must verify that service

brakes, including trailer brake connections; parking brake; steering

mechanism; lighting devices and reflectors; ties, horn; windshield wipers;

rearview mirror ,and coupling devices are in good working order before

the vehicle can be driven. In addition, all emergency equipment required

under 49 CFR Part 393.95 must be checked prior to each trip to be sure

the equipment is in place and ready for use.

Commercial Motor Vehicle Crashes

You must report a crash, in writing, to the Vermont Department of Motor

Vehicles with 72 hours of the crash if there are any injuries involved or

the total property damage to all property is $3,000 or more.

The investigating Officer must complete and submit a Supplemental

Crash Report if the crash involves a “qualifying vehicle” and meets one or

more of the crash severity criteria:

(ii) Does not use any non-Schedule I drug or substance that is identified

in the other Schedules in 49 CFR part 383

except when the use is

prescribed by a licensed me

dical practitioner, as defined in § 382.107 of

this chapter, who is familiar with the driver's medical history and has

advised the driver that the substance will not adversely affect the

driver's

ability to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle; and

(13) Has no current clinical diagnosis of alcoholism.

Page | 8

a. Qualifying Vehicle

1. A truck having a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000

pounds or a gross combination weight rating of over 10,000

pounds used on a public highway; or

2. A vehicle displaying a hazardous materials placard; or

3. Any motor vehicle designed to transport 9 or more people,

including the driver.

b. Crash Severity

1. One or more fatalities are involved; or

2. One or more persons have been injured and removed from the

crash scene for immediate medical attention; or

3. One or more vehicles involved in the crash required assistance

from an emergency vehicle due to disabling damage or had to be

towed from the scene.

Am I required to keep a record of any crashes I have?

All motor carriers must report crashes and keep a record of crashes at

their principal place of business for 3 years following a crash.

Record of Driver Duty Status (Logs)

Am I required to maintain a record of duty status?

Yes, if you:

 Drive for common carriers, contract carriers, or private carriers of

property and drive a vehicle with a gross or combined vehicle weight

of 10,001 lbs. or more;

 Transport 9 passengers or more, including the driver, for hire;

 Drive in intrastate or interstate commerce.

Are there exemptions from maintaining a record of duty status?

Yes, the following persons may be exempt from maintaining a record of

duty status by the employer:

(a)

Short-haul operations – 150 air-mile radius driver. A driver is exempt

from the requirements of maintaining a record of duty status if:

Page | 9

(1)

The driver operates within a 150 air-mile radius of the normal

work reporting location;

(2) The driver, except a driver-

salesperson, returns to the work

reporting location and is released from work within 14

consecutive hours;

(3) (i) A property-carrying commercial

motor vehicle driver has

at least 10 consecutive hours off duty separating each

hours on duty;

(ii) A passenger-

carrying commercial motor vehicle driver

has at least 8 consecutive hours off duty separating

each

14 hours on duty;

(iii) A property-carrying commercial motor vehicle driver

does

not exceed the maximum driving time specified in CFR

Part 395.3(a)(3) following 10 consecutive hours

off duty;

(iv) A passenger-

carrying commercial motor vehicle driver

does not exceed 10 hours maximum driving time

following 8 consecutive hours off duty; and

(v)

The motor carrier that employs the driver maintains and

retains for a period of 6 months accurate and true time

records showing:

(A) The time the driver reports for duty each day;

(B) The total number of hours the driver is on duty each

day;

and

(D)

The total time for the preceding 7 days in

accordance with CFR Part 395.8(j)(2) for drivers

used for the first time or intermittently.

(b) Operators of property-

carrying commercial motor vehicles not

requiring a commercial driver's license.

Except as provided in this

paragraph, a driver is exempt from the requirements of maintaining

a record of duty status if:

(1)

The driver operates a property-carrying commercial motor

vehicle for which a commercial driver's license is not required;

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Am I legally responsible for maintaining a record of duty status if I

am not exempt?

(2)

The driver operates within a 150 air-mile radius of the location

where the driver reports to and is released from work, i.e.,

the

normal work reporting location;

(3) The driver returns to the normal work reporting location at the

end of each duty tour;

(4) The driver does not drive:

(i) After the 14th hour after coming on duty on 5 days of any

period of 7 consecutive days; and

(ii) After the 16th hour after coming on duty on 2 days of any

period of 7 consecutive days;

(5)

The motor carrier that employs the driver maintains and

retains

for a period of 6 months accurate and true time records

showing:

(i) The time the driver reports for duty each day;

(ii) The total number of hours the driver is on duty each day;

(iii) The time the driver is released from duty each day;

(iv)

The total time for the preceding 7 days for drivers used

for the first time or intermittently.

Yes, every driver must keep a record of his/her duty status, in duplicate,

for each 24-hour period or comply with Electronic Logging Device

requirements.

How current does the record of duty status entries have to be?

The record of duty status must show the time when the duty status last

changed.

What do I do with the entries after they have been completed?

You must keep a copy of each record of duty status for the previous 7

consecutive days. These copies must be kept in your possession and

available for inspection while you are on duty. Forward the originals to

the employing motor carrier within 13 days or comply with Electronic

Logging Device requirements.

Page | 11

On Duty / Driving Time

What is “on duty time” and “driving time”?

“On duty time” is all the time starting when driver begins work or must be

ready to work, until the time when the driver leaves work, or is relieved

from all work responsibilities. (Includes compensated work for a person

not the motor carrier). “Driving time” is all of the time that the driver spends

at driving controls in operation of a commercial motor vehicle.

What are the limits on driving time?

 The maximum driving time for property-carrying vehicles is as

follows:

(a) Except as otherwise provided in FMSCA Regulations 40 CFR Part

395.1, no motor carrier shall permit or require any driver used by

it to drive a property-carrying commercial motor vehicle, nor shall

any such driver drive a property-carrying commercial motor

vehicle, regardless of the number of motor carriers using the

driver's services, unless the driver complies with the following

requirements:

(1) Start of work shift. A driver may not drive without first taking

10 consecutive hours off duty;

(2) 14-hour period. A driver may drive only during a period of 14

consecutive hours after coming on duty following 10

consecutive hours off duty. The driver may not drive after the

end of the 14-consecutive-hour period without first taking 10

consecutive hours off duty.

(3) Driving time and rest breaks.

(i) Driving time. A driver may drive a total of 11 hours during

the 14-hour period specified above in paragraph (a)(2).

(ii) Rest breaks. Driving is not permitted if more than 8 hours

of driving time have passed without at least a consecutive

30-minute interruption of driving status.

(b) No motor carrier shall permit or require a driver of a property-

carrying commercial motor vehicle to drive, nor shall any driver

drive a property-carrying commercial motor vehicle, regardless of

the number of motor carriers using the driver's services, for any

period after:

Page | 12

(1) Having been on duty 60 hours in any period of 7 consecutive

days if the employing motor carrier does not operate

commercial motor vehicles every day of the week; or

(2) Having been on duty 70 hours in any period of 8 consecutive

days if the employing motor carrier operates commercial

motor vehicles every day of the week.

of an off-duty period of 34 or more consecutive.

(2) Any period of 8 consecutive days may end with the beginning

of an off-duty period of 34 or more consecutive.

 The maximum driving time for passenger-carrying vehicles are as

follows:

(a) No motor carrier shall permit or require any driver used by it to

drive a passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicle, nor shall

any such driver drive a passenger-carrying commercial motor

vehicle:

(1) More than 10 hours following 8 consecutive hours off duty; or

(2) For any period after having been on duty 15 hours following 8

consecutive hours off duty.

(b) No motor carrier shall permit or require a driver of a passenger-

carrying commercial motor vehicle to drive, nor shall any driver

drive a passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicle, regardless

of the number of motor carriers using the driver's services, for any

period after:

(1) Having been on duty 60 hours in any 7 consecutive days if the

employing motor carrier does not operate commercial motor

vehicles every day of the week; or

(2) Having been on duty 70 hours in any period of 8 consecutive

days if the employing motor carrier operates commercial

motor vehicles every day of the week.

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How often must a vehicle periodic inspection be performed?

How long do maintenance records have to be kept?

As a driver, do I have to complete any inspection records?

Why do I have to know about hazardous materials?

Shipping Papers

Why are shipping papers important when hazardous materials are

being transported?

A vehicle must be inspected, according to 49 CFR Part 396.17 and 23

VSA §1222, at least once during a 12-month period.

A motor carrier must keep maintenance records where the vehicle is

lodged or maintained for 1 year and for 6 months after the vehicle leaves

the motor carrier’s control.

Yes, every motor carrier must require its drivers to complete a vehicle

inspection report by the end of each day. The motor carrier must keep

your original vehicle inspection report for at least 3 months.

HAZARDOUS

MATERIALS

All drivers should know how to identify hazardous materials. If you can

recognize hazardous materials cargo, then you can determine whether or

not you can carry it without a hazardous materials endorsement on your

CDL.

You may not be able to speak after a crash or a hazardous materials leak.

Shipping papers can tell firefighters, police, and emergency medical

personnel about the hazards involved so that more damage and injury

can be prevented. For this reason, it is important that the shipping papers

are kept where they can be found quickly.

Periodic Vehicle Inspections

Page | 14

When is placarding of hazardous materials required?

Hazardous Materials Incidents

If I want to transport hazardous waste or solid waste, do I need a

special permit?

If you transport any amount of a material listed in Table 1 or if you

transport more than 1,000 pounds of materials listed in Table 2 of the

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations 172.504, placarding of

hazardous materials is required.

When do I have to report an incident involving hazardous materials?

You must report an incident involving hazardous materials if you have an

incident that results in the death or hospitalization of any person, property

damage of $50,000 or more, or the release of any radioactive material.

You must report the incident to the:

 Vermont Emergency Management Center at 800.347.0488;

 Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles at 802.828.2078; or

 Vermont State Police at 802.244.8727.

Hazardous or Solid Waste Permit

Yes. To obtain a permit you must contact the Agency of Natural

Resources (ANR) at 802.828.1294. ANR will provide you with the

information necessary to obtain the permit you need.

TRANSPORTATION

FOR

HIRE

Common Carrier/Contract Carrier Definition

What are a “Common Carrier” and a “Contract Carrier”?

A Common Carrier is a person, partnership or corporation that provides

motor vehicle transportation of passengers or property to the general

public for compensation.

Placarding Requirements

Page | 15

Vehicle Requirements

Are there any vehicle requirements if I want to operate for hire within

Vermont?

CDL Qualifications

What is the Commercial Driver License law?

Who must obtain a CDL?

How can I obtain a CDL?

A Contract Carrier is a person, partnership or corporation that provides

motor vehicle transportation of passengers or property for compensation

or hire to a particular person, firm or corporation.

No, other than that the vehicle must be properly registered according to

Vermont law or according to the International Registration Plan (IRP). If

the vehicle is base registered in a jurisdiction other than VT, a valid IFTA

license is also required.

COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSE (CDL)

Vermont’s Commercial Driver License Act was signed into law on June 5,

1990. This law created special testing and licensing standards, as well as

new rigorous driver qualification standards, for commercial drivers for the

first time in Vermont.

The law was passed to ensure that all commercial drivers possess and

use only one license and that drivers are properly trained for driving a

large vehicle in a safe and responsible way.

Any person who operates a motor vehicle:

 Having a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of at least 26,001

pounds;

 Designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver;

 Carrying hazardous materials, which require placards, regardless of

the vehicle size.

A minimum, a written knowledge test, applicable entry level driver

training, and a basic skills test, must be taken and passed. The written

Page | 16

General Knowledge test measures your understanding of motor vehicle

laws and safe driving practices. Entry-Level Driver Training instructs you

on driver qualification requirements, hours of service, driver wellness, and

whistleblower protection. The Skills Test demonstrates your ability to

control the vehicle you are driving.

CDL Exemptions

Is anyone exempt from having to get a CDL?

Yes: emergency vehicles, military vehicles, motor homes, and trailer

coaches used for recreational purposes are not considered commercial

motor vehicles. Persons who drive these vehicles are not required to get

a CDL.

Farmers are also exempt if the farm vehicles are:

a. Controlled and operated by farmer; and

b. Used to carry agricultural products, farm machinery or farm supplies

to or from the farm; and

c. Not used in the operations of a common or contract carrier.

d. Used within 150 miles of the farmer’s farm (FMCSR 383.3(D)).

Are there exceptions to taking the CDL written and skill tests?

There are two exceptions:

1. The Written & Skills Test may be waived for military service members

and recently separated Veterans with two years of safe driving

experience in similar vehicles. More information can be found on the

Application for Military Skills Test Waiver (Vermont Form VL-054).

2. A person who drives for farm-related services industries may be

issued a restricted CDL for a period, or periods, that cannot exceed

180 days within a twelve-month period. The farm-related services

industries (FRSI) CDLs authorize the operation of commercial

vehicles for seasonal use only. The restricted CDL would apply to the

following industries:

 Custom harvesters,

 Farm retail outlets and suppliers,

 Agri-chemicals businesses,

 Livestock feeders,

Page | 17

Farm Related Services Industries Restricted CDL

Are there any special qualifications for the FRSI restricted CDL?

CDL Tests

What are the other knowledge tests that I may have to take?

 Those industries, which normally serve most of the small

agricultural businesses and farms.

A driver who holds a FRSI restricted CDL cannot:

(a) Operate beyond 150 miles from the place of business or the farm

being serviced;

(b) Operate Class A vehicles;

exceptions:

(i) Diesel fuel in quantities of 1000 gallons or less,

(ii) Liquid fertilizers (such as plant nutrients) in vehicles or farm

machinery with a total capacity of 3000 gallons or less,

(iii) Solid fertilizers (such as solid plant nutrients) that are not

transported with any organic substance.

Yes, persons applying for the FRSI restricted CDL must have a “good

driving record” for at least two years. A good driving record is considered

to be a record with:

a. No record of multiple license;

b. No driver license suspension, revocations or cancellations of any

kind;

c. No conviction in any motor vehicle for driving under the influence of

alcohol or drugs, leaving the scene of a crash or committing a felony

involving a motor vehicle;

d. No convictions in any vehicle for serious traffic violations;

e. No convictions for crash-related traffic law violations and no record of

at-fault crashes.

Page | 18

The other written tests that may be required depend upon the type of

vehicle you intend to drive. These tests are:

a. Air Brake test, if you are going to operate vehicles with air brakes.

b. Combination Vehicle test, if you will drive combination vehicles.

c. Passenger Transport Endorsement test, if you will drive a vehicle

designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver.

d. Tank Vehicle Endorsement test, if you intend to drive a vehicle a

vehicle which carries liquid or gaseous materials in bulk.

e. Double/Triple Trailer Endorsement test, if you will tow double or triple

trailers. Double trailers are allowed on the interstate and reasonable

access roads.

f. Hazardous Materials Endorsement test, if you will drive a vehicle

carrying hazardous materials or waste that must have placards.

g. Fingerprinting is also required if you will drive a vehicle carrying

hazardous materials or waste that must have placards.

When do I take the Skills Test and what does it involve?

After the written tests are passed, you must take and pass a Skill Test.

The Skill Test consists of three performance tests:

a. Pre-Trip Safety Inspection test, which measures your ability to

determine if the vehicle is safe to drive;

b. Basic Control Skills test, which demonstrates your skill in controlling

the vehicle through various maneuvers such as alley docks, backing,

and measured turns;

c. Road Skills test, which measures your ability to drive in all types of

traffic and road situations.

d. You must have held a Commercial Driver Permit for 14 days prior to

taking the skills test.

What do I do if I have a reading problem?

All of the knowledge tests are on audiotape if you have a reading problem.

You should ask for an “oral” test when you make an appointment.

How do I make an appointment for a CDL exam?

All tests may be scheduled by calling 802.828.2000.

Page | 19

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles

120 State Street

Montpelier, Vermont 05603-0001

 802.828.2000  dmv.vermont.gov

After I get my CDL, do I have to take the tests again?

The Hazardous Materials endorsement test must be taken and passed

bef

ore each CDL renewal if you want to keep the Hazardous Materials

endorsement. Fingerprinting is once again required when renewing the

Hazardous Materials endorsement. The school bus endorsement also

requires you to retake school bus testing and the clinic before each

renewal.

Whom do I contact for further information on CDL?

If y

ou would like a Commercial Driver License Manual or have more

questions about CDL’s, please call or write:

The CDL Manual can also be found on our website; dmv.vermont.gov

LEGAL SIZE AND WEIGHT

Weight Limitations

What are the legal weight limits for my vehicle in Vermont?

On Interstate highways and= state highways the single axle weight limit

s 22,400 pounds and the tandem axle limit is 36,000 pounds. The

maximum allowable gross weight is 80,000 pounds. The gross weight

allowed for a particular vehicle is determined by VT Title 23 V.S.A. 1392

Size Limitations

What are the legal size limits for my vehicle in Vermont?

The maximum legal limits for weight and dimensions are shown at the

end of

this manual.

Page | 20

What can I do if my vehicle and load are over the limits for size and

weight?

Do I need an oversize or overweight permit to travel on designated

highways?

OVERSIZE / OVERWEIGHT PERMITS

Types of Permits

You may contact the Department of Motor Vehicles Commercial Vehicle

Permit Unit, 802.828.2064 for information on obtaining the proper

oversize and/or excess weight permit for your vehicle.

What is a designated highway?

Designated highways in Vermont are U.S., State and Interstate numbered

highways. Legal movements are allowed to travel these Vermont roads

unless they are otherwise posted. Loads with properly issued permits are

allowed to travel on designated highways.

Yes, you must obtain a permit if your vehicle exceeds the legal weight

and/or dimensions.

Penalties for Violations

Are there penalties for violating the legal load limits in Vermont?

Yes, if you operate a vehicle that exceeds the legal weight limits, without

the proper permits, you will be guilty of a traffic offense and will be fined

as follows according to 23 VSA Section 1391a. This also applies if you

permit someone else to operate an oversize/overweight vehicle without

permits.

(1) $15.00 for each 1,000 lbs., or portion thereof overweight, for the first

5,000 lbs. overweight;

(2) $30.00 for each 1,000 lbs., or portion thereof overweight, when the

gross overweight is more than 5,000 lbs. and less than 10,001 lbs.

(3) $45.00 for each 1,000 lbs., or portion thereof overweight, when the

gross overweight is more than 10,000 lbs. and less than 15,001 lbs.;

(4) $60.00 for each 1,000 lbs., or portion thereof overweight, when the

gross weight is more than 15,000 lbs. and less than 20,001 lbs.;

Page | 21

Where do I get more information about oversize or overweight

permits?

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles

Commercial Vehicle Permit Unit

120 State Street

Montpelier, Vermont 05603-0001

 802.828.2064  dmv.vermont.gov

(5) $90.00 for each 1,000 lbs., or portion thereof overweight, when the

gross overweight is more than 20,000 lbs. and less than 25,001 lbs.;

(6) $150.00 for each 1,000 lbs., or portion thereof overweight, when the

gross overweight is more than 25,000 lbs.

(7) When determining the fine for a gross overweight violation when the

vehicle is operating with a 99,000 lb. permit, the fine for any portion of

the first 10,000 lb. overweight will be the same as (1) or (2) above,

and if the gross overweight is 10,001 lbs. or more in excess of the

permitted weight the fine schedule will be doubled.

(8) Any person who refuses to submit his/her vehicle and load to weighing

or who refuses to remove any overload may be fined up to $2,500.00,

may have the vehicle and load impounded and may be liable for any

expenses incurred.

If you would like a copy of the Vermont Oversize / Overweight Permit

Guide / Motor Carrier Safety Guide or have questions that are not covered

in this manual, you may call or write:

Page | 22

Qualifying Vehicles

What types of vehicles should I register with the IRP?

Exempt Vehicles

Are there any types of vehicles, which are exempt from IRP

registration?

INTERNATIONAL

REGISTRATION

PLAN

(IRP)

The International Registration Plan is a reciprocal agreement between the

states and the provinces, which provides for the payment of registration

fees based on the distance traveled in member jurisdictions. Although

registration fees are paid to member jurisdictions in which the vehicles

operate, only one set of plates and one cab card are issued for each

vehicle registered under the plan.

Vehicles that meet the following description and travel in two or more IRP

jurisdictions are required to be registered with the IRP:

a. Power units with three or more axles, regardless of weight; or

b. Vehicle with a gross weight of more than 26,000 pounds; or

c. Combination vehicles when the combined gross weight is more than

26,000 pounds; or

d. Any vehicle belonging to an out-of-state business, which meets the

criteria in a through d that is housed and maintained in Vermont.

 NOTE: At the option of the owner, any vehicle in category d above

may be proportionally registered. If, however, the vehicle is

involved in a point-to-point operation in another state and is not

apportioned, the driver may be ticketed for illegal operation.

Yes. The vehicles, which are exempt, are:

 Government-owned vehicles;

 City pick-up and delivery vehicles (such as wreckers and taxis);

 Recreational vehicles (i.e. vehicles used for personal leisure or travel

by an individual or family).



Page | 23

What information do I have to give when I register under the IRP?

You must provide:

1. Completed Vermont Registration, Tax and Title Application;

2. Certificate of Title (for vehicles that are not presently registered in

Vermont) or Manufacturer’s Certificate (Statement) of Origin (for new

vehicles that have never been previously registered);

3. Bill(s) of Sale;

4. Proof of Federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax payment (Federal Form

2290) for all vehicles with a gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more,

or a Bill of Sale indicating the vehicle was purchased within the

preceding 60 days;

5. Proof of established place of business in Vermont. An established

place of business is considered a physical structure owned, leased or

rented by the fleet registrant. The business location will be verified by

providing the following:

a. Phone bill with physical location in the name of registrant or

registrant’s business;

b. Electric bill which indicates the physical location in the name of

the registrant or registrant’s business;

c. Rental Receipt/Lease Agreement;

d. State Income Tax Return.

6. Registrant’s Social Security Number or Federal Identification Number;

7. Odometer disclosure statement (Not needed if the vehicle weights

greater than 16,000 pounds;

8. Payment of the Vermont Purchase & Use Tax, or exemption form, as

well as a $33.00 title fee and $10.00 fee for each lien holder to be

listed on the title.

IRP Fees

How are IRP registration fees calculated?

IRP registration fees are based on the proportion of miles traveled in each

IRP jurisdiction. Each jurisdiction mileage figure is divided by the total

miles driven to get a percentage figure. The percentage obtained is

Page | 24

Registration Expiration

When does an IRP registration expire?

Will my mileage records be audited?

If I want to replace one vehicle for another in the middle of the

registration year, do I get any credit?

multiplied by the jurisdiction’s full registration fee to determine the total

fee due for that jurisdiction.

Example:

A carrier operates in 2 IRP jurisdictions; Vermont and New Hampshire.

The carrier operates a diesel-powered tractor-trailer registered at

80,000 lbs. A total of 50,000 miles are traveled; 25,000 miles within

Vermont, and 25,000 within New Hampshire.

For the purpose of this example, Vermont’s registration fee is

$1,639.00; and New Hampshire’s registration fee is $630.86.

Vermont

New Hampshire

Total

25,000 miles

50,000 miles

50%

100%

$1,639.00

$630.86

$819.50

x .50

+ 315.43

$819.50

$315.43

$1,134.93

Total Fees Due

All vehicles in the same fleet will have the same expiration date.

Yes, all of your mileage records are subject to audit by the Vermont

Department of Motor Vehicles. Mileage records must be kept for 5 years.

Yes, you may transfer the registration form one vehicle to another,

providing the new vehicle is within the same fleet. You should call

802.828.2071 for information on transferring an apportioned plate or

802.828.2000 for information on transferring non-apportioned plates.

Page | 25

Are there temporary IRP registrations that can be issued while I’m

waiting for permanent IRP credentials?

Do I have an alternative to registering with the IRP?

Whom do I contact for forms or information about IRP?

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles

Commercial Vehicle Operations Section – IRP

120 State Street

Montpelier, Vermont 05603-0001

 (802) 828-2071  dmv.vermont.gov

Yes, a 45-day temporary registration can be issued. For additional

information call 802.828.2071.

Yes, you can purchase a base plate and then get an IRP trip permit for

each trip through each IRP jurisdiction.

You may contact:

Temporary IRP Permit

Page | 26

INTERNATIONAL

FUEL

TAX

AGREEMENT

(IFTA)

What is the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA)?

The International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) is an agreement among

jurisdictions in the United States and Canada that simplifies fuel tax

reporting for inter-jurisdictional carriers with vehicle fleets fueled by diesel

fuel, gasoline, gasohol, propane, and natural gas. Jurisdictions continue

to set their own tax rates according to local and state highway

construction and maintenance needs and are only required to notify other

base jurisdictions to the proper tax rate to collect.

The universal adoption of IFTA by all jurisdictions means the savings of

hundreds of millions of dollars in complying with different fuel tax reporting

requirements for motor carriers. The motor carrier will only need to deal

with a single jurisdiction for fuel use tax licensing and reporting.

Who must apply for IFTA Permits and cab cards?

Any carrier that has qualifying vehicles that travels in Vermont and at least

one other IFTA member jurisdiction.

Qualifying Vehicles

What types of vehicles qualify for IFTA?

A motor vehicle used, designed, or maintained for transportation of

persons or property and:

 Having two axles and a gross vehicle weight or registered gross

vehicle weight exceeding 26,000 pounds or 11,797 kilograms; or

 A power unit having three or more axles regardless of weight; or

 Is used in combination when the weight of such combination exceeds

26,000 pounds or 11,797 kilograms gross vehicle or registered gross

vehicle weight.

 NOTE: “Qualified motor vehicle” does not include recreational

vehicles.

Page | 27

Are there any vehicles, which are exempt from IFTA qualification?

IFTA Fees

What is the cost for an IFTA permit?

How many IFTA permits/cab cards and decals do I need?

IFTA Permit Renewals

When does the permit expire?

The State of Vermont currently exempts the following motor vehicle types

from the display of fuel user tax decals and fuel tax reporting:

 Vehicles with municipal registration including school buses;

 Vermont registered agricultural vehicles; and

 Vehicle registered to the federal government or any other

governmental entity

However, these exemptions may not apply in other jurisdictions in

which you may operate. If you have a Vermont registered vehicle that

meets the IFTA qualified vehicle requirements, and are planning to travel

outside Vermont, you are advised to contact each jurisdiction in which you

will be operating. You should check to see if your vehicle would be exempt

from displaying IFTA decals.

There is no fee for an IFTA permit.

You will need two (2) decals for each qualified motor vehicle in your fleet

and a single (one per carrier) IFTA License. You must photocopy the IFTA

License and place one photocopy of the license document in each

qualified motor vehicle. Decals must be affixed (one each) to the driver’s

side door and the passenger’s side door of each qualifying vehicle in the

fleet. Decals are numbered and both decals of a pair must be on the same

vehicle.

The IFTA License and decals are valid from January 1 to December 31

for each calendar year. Your IFTA license and decals must be renewed

prior to midnight December 31.

Exempt Vehicles

Page | 28

Are the permit/cab card and decals transferable to the new owner if

the vehicle is sold or traded?

Replacement Decals

Can I get replacement decals?

Quarterly Reports

As a carrier, am I required to file any reports?

You will receive one renewal application for all of your IFTA permits in the

mail sometime after the first week in October. You may renew your

permits by mail, online at cvo.mydmv.vermont.gov

, or in person at the

Montpelier Office of the Department of Motor Vehicles.

No, the IFTA permit/cab card and decals are issued to you, the carrier,

and can be used only by you. The IFTA permit/cab card and emblems

cannot be used by the new owner of the vehicle. The new owner must

apply for an IFTA permit/cab card and decals if the vehicle meets IFTA

qualifications. An application would have to be made for any new or

additional vehicles.

Yes. If the decals have been lost or destroyed, you can request

replacements by mail, online at cvo.mydmv.vermont.gov

, or in person at

the Montpelier Office of the Department of Motor Vehicles. You will

receive a pair of replacement decals because they are required to be

affixed, one to the driver’s door and one to the passenger’s door.

Yes. Vermont base state-licensed IFTA carriers are required to file

quarterly fuel use tax reports only with Vermont for operations in all IFTA

member jurisdictions. The IFTA quarterly tax report will consist of fuel tax

reporting for diesel fuel, gasoline, gasohol, propane, and natural gas.

The IFTA quarterly tax report will allow the calculation of tax due or credit

amount by a net balance of a motor fuel tax overpayment in one

jurisdiction against liability in another jurisdiction. If the net result is an

underpayment, the reporter will send one check to the State of Vermont.

If the net result is an overpayment, you will receive the appropriate refund

check(s) from the State of Vermont.

How do I renew my IFTA permit?

Page | 29

If I find an error on my quarterly report after I file, how can I make a

correction?

Are there any penalties for filing the quarterly reports late or not

filing at all?

When are these reports due?

Quarterly fuel tax reports must be federally postmarked (not machine

stamped) or hand delivered by the due date. If the due date falls on a

Saturday, Sunday or any legal holiday proof of mailing on the next

business day will be accepted. The reporting quarters and due dates are:

Quarter

Period

Report Due

January 1 – March 31 April 30

April 1 – June 30 July 31

July 1 – September 30 October 31

October 1 – December 31 January 31

How do I get the quarterly report forms?

The Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles will send an IFTA Quarterly

Fuel User Tax Report to the reporting address of each Vermont-based

IFTA licensee at least 30 days prior to each filing due date. A reporter

should notify the department if a fuel tax report is not received within 30

days of a due date.

A tax report must be completed and submitted by the due date even if

there are no miles to report in any IFTA jurisdiction or no taxable fuel has

been purchased in the quarter.

You can file an amended report. You should make a copy of the original

report, with the corrections indicated on the copy, and send it to the

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles, Commercial Vehicle Operations.

You should keep a copy of the amended report for your files.

Quarterly Report Penalties

Yes, reports not federally postmarked by the due date will be considered

late and any taxes due will be considered to be delinquent. The State of

Vermont will assess the licensee a late charge or penalty of $50.00 or

Page | 30

What do I have to do if I have my own fuel storage tanks and I fuel

my own motor vehicles but do not sell any fuel?

10% of the delinquent tax liability due, whichever is greater, for failure to

file a report, or for filing a late report

The State of Vermont may revoke your IFTA license for failure to comply

with IFTA requirements such as:

 Failure to file quarterly tax reports on time;

 Failure to pay taxes due in full;

 Failure to follow record-keeping requirements.

The diesel tax rate at the pump is $.32 per gallon. Distributors will be

required to tax all sales of clear, un-dyed diesel as follows:

$0.28

Tax

+ $0.03

Motor Fuel Transportation

Infrastructure Assessment

+ $0.01 Petroleum Clean-Up Fee

$0.32

Total Cost Per Gallon

The only tax-free sales allowed will be with a valid exemption certificate

for the state, municipal, school district, fire district, non-profit public transit

systems or other governmentally-owned vehicles, or fuel delivered for

farm use to a farm bulk fuel storage tank (on-road vehicles must be

agriculturally registered).

The exemption certificate will be provided by the Department of Motor

Vehicles. The certificate will be numbered and expire semi-annually on

12/31 of each even year unless revoked. Renewal applications will be

provided.

Fuel Storage Tanks

The distributor must deliver all bulk fuel with the $.32 state tax included.

An IFTA Quarterly Report must be filed on all qualifying vehicles and

credit will be allowed for tax-paid gallons used in the propulsion tank of

IFTA qualified motor vehicles only.

Page | 31

What do I have to do if I have my own fuel storage tanks, fuel my

own motor vehicles and sell fuel?

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles

Commercial Vehicle Operations – IFTA

120 State Street, Montpelier, Vermont 05603-0001

 (802) 828-2070  dmv.vermont.gov

Tax-paid credit for fuel used by non-IFTA vehicles, OFF road equipment

and Agriculture registered vehicles are not exempt. PTO allowances

must be taken on the VT Diesel Fuel refund application, which can be

obtained through Commercial Vehicle Operations at 802.828.2071.

You must apply to the Department of Motor Vehicles for a fuel dealer

distributor’s license. There is no fee for this license.

Whom do I contact for more information about IFTA?

You m

ay contact:

Page | 32

What is the Federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (FHVUT)?

Qualifying Vehicles

Do I need to pay the FHVUT on all my vehicles?

Proof of Payment

Do I have to notify the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles when

I pay the FHVUT?

What is acceptable proof of payment for FHVUT?

FEDERAL HEAVY VEHICLE USE TAX (FHVUT)

The Federal Government assessed an annual Heavy Vehicle Use Tax on

all highway vehicles with a gross or combined gross weight of 55,000

pounds or more.

The FVHUT must be paid on any of your vehicles, which have a gross or

combined gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more. Payments may be

made quarterly.

Yes, you must submit proof of FHVUT payment to the Department of

Motor Vehicles for:

 New registration for vehicles previously registered;

 Registration renewals;

 Weight changes to 55,000 lbs. or more on vehicles presently

registered;

 Transfers the FHVUT paid on the old vehicles do not apply toward the

tax on the new vehicle;

 Applications for base plates or IRP plates.

The Department of Motor Vehicles will accept:

 Receipted IRS form 2290, Schedule 1;

 Photocopy of receipted IRS form 2290, Schedule 1;

 Photocopy of non-receipted IRS form 2290 with Schedule 1 attached,

along with a copy of the front and back of the canceled check showing

payment of the tax;

Page | 33

Exemptions

Are there any exemptions from the FHVUT?

Whom can I contact if I have questions concerning heavy vehicle

use tax and compliance?

Where can I get the FHVUT Form 2290?

How long must I keep my FHVUT records?

 Photocopy of non-receipted IRS form 2290 with Schedule 1 attached,

along with original or copy of IRS Tax Statement from 4428 or 8488,

which shows an installment payment has been made.

Some vehicles have been given an exemption from the FVHUT. They

are:

1. Vehicles used exclusively by:

a. State or local government;

b. Non-profit organizations, volunteer fire depts., ambulance

associations, and rescue squads;

c. Certain transit-type buses;

d. Vehicles purchased 60 days or less prior to registration are only

exempt from having to show proof paid at the time of registration

but are not exempt from the FHVUT.

2. Special purpose trucks, with the exception of wrecker/tow trucks.

Wrecker/tow trucks must pay the FHVUT.

You can contact your local IRS office or call the IRS, at 800-829-1040.

You can get the form 2290 from the local IRS Office, online at irs.gov,

through the Commercial Vehicle Office at the Department of Motor

Vehicles in Montpelier, or online at dmv.vermont.gov

You must keep FHVUT records for at least 5 years.

Page | 34

Superintendent of Documents

U.S. Government Printing Office

Washington D.C. 20402

Telephone: (202) 783-3238

TECHNICAL

ASSISTANCE

If you have questions or need technical assistance with the laws or

regulations, you may contact:

Department of Motor Vehicles

120 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05603 - 0001

Commercial Vehicle Enforcement: 802.828.2078

General Information: 802.828.2000

Fuel Tax Reporting: 802.828.2070

International Registration Plan: 802.828.2071

International Fuel Tax Agreement: 802.828.2070

Commercial Vehicle Permit Unit: 802.828.2064

Department of Public Safety

103 S

outh Main Street, Waterbury, VT 05676: 802.244.8778

Federal Highway Administration

Office of M

otor Carrier Safety: 802.828.4423

COPIES OF LAWS AND REGULATIONS

A complete copy of the Weight and Size Laws is contained in Title 23,

V.S.A. (Motor Vehicle Laws). You may purchase a copy from the

Department of Motor Vehicles, or you may view these laws on our

website, dmv.vermont.gov

A complete copy of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and

Hazardous Materials Regulations may be purchased from:

These regulations can also be purchased from some publishing

companies or some of the transportation-related associations.

Page | 35

Determining Maximum Gross, Road, Tire,

Axle and Registered Weight Limits

MAXIMUM LEGAL LIMITS FOR WEIGHT AND

DIMENSIONS

SIZE AND WEIGHT LIMITS FOR MOTOR TRUCKS,

TRUCK-TRACTORS AND COMBINATIONS SIZE LIMITS

 Maximum width – 8 feet and 6 inches (102 inches)

 Maximum height – 13 feet and 6 inches (162 inches)

 Maximum length – 75 feet on State Roads. There is no maximum

length on the interstate system.

 Trailer/semi-trailer length – cannot exceed 53 feet. Distance between

kingpin and the center of the rear axle group cannot exceed 41 feet.

 Doubles – Tractor and semi-trailer, trailer combination allowed on

“National Network” (Interstate and some designated highways). No

semi-trailer or trailer may exceed 28 feet.

 Note: Vehicles exceeding these limits should contact the VT DMV

Commercial Vehicle Permit Unit for information regarding permits

and routing.

In determining the maximum gross weight of any truck or truck-tractor with

a trailer or semi-trailer, the following factors must be considered:

1. Axle limits

2. Tire Size

3. Statutory road limits

4. Registered Weight

5. Gross Weight Formula

Tridem Axle

Single Axle

 22,400 pounds on state roads

and the interstate.

Tandem Axle

 36,000 pounds on state roads

and the interstate.

 Weight limits are specified by special excess weight

permits; however, the limit on state roads with no permit is

calculated by using the formula/table in the “Factor #5”

section.

 Axles with only single tires on each end are generally

limited by the tire size.

Factor #1 – Axle Limits

Tire Load

Factor #3 – Statutory Road Limits

Factor #4 – Registered Weight

The maximum load on any vehicle axle shall not exceed a gross weight

of more than 600 pounds per inch of tire width in conformity with the

manufacturer’s designated width. This applies to all trucks including

those issued excess weight permits.

Tire Size Per Tire 2 Tires 4 Tires

8:25 4,950 9,900 19,800

9:00 5,400 10,800 21,600

10:00 6,000 12,000 24,000

11:00 6,600 13,200 26,400

Metric Tire Size 25.4 MM = 1 Inch

The weight of the truck or combination is restricted to the maximum

allowed for the vehicles as shown in the diagrams that follow the gross

weight formula table.

A motor truck or truck-tractor, semi-trailer, trailer, or any combination may

not be operated upon the public highways with a gross weight, including

the vehicle and load, greater than the total registered weight.

Factor #2 – Tire Size

The gross weight formula is the distance in feet between the first and last

axle of the vehicle or combination of axle spacing measured to the

nearest foot as set forth in the following table.

Title 23 §1392(4) which is derived from the Federal Bridge Formula but

does not match it exactly.

Gross Weight Formula

Distance betw

een the

center of the first and last

axle of any group of two or

more axles.

Maximum load in pounds

carried in any group of two

or more axles to the

nearest

500 lbs.

Factor #5 – Gross Weight

Feet

2 Axles

3 Axles

4 Axles

5 Axles

6 Axles

7 Axles

8 or

less

36,000 36,000

39,000

42,500

40,000

43,500

44,000

45,000

50,000

45,500

50,500

46,500

51,500

47,000

52,000

48,000

52,500

48,500

53,500

49,500

54,000

50,000

54,500

51,000

55.500

66,000

51,500

56,000

66,500

52.500

56,500

67,000

53,000

57,500

68,000

54,000

58,000

68,500

74,000

54,500

58,500

69,000

74,500

55,500

59,500

69,500

75,000

56,000

60,000

70,000

74,500

57,000

60,500

71,000

76,500

57,500

61,500

71,500

77,000

58,500

62,000

72,000

77,500

59,000

62,500

72,500

78,000

60,000

63,500

73,000

78,500

64,000

74,000

79,000

64,500

74,500

80,000

65,500

75,000

80,000

66,000

70,500

75,500

80,000

66,500

71,000

76,000

80,000

67,500

72,000

77,000

80,000

68,000

72,500

77,500

80,000

Feet

2 Axles

3 Axles

4 Axles

5 Axles

6 Axles

7 Axles

68,500

73,000

78,000

80,000

69,500

73,500

78,500

80,000

70,000

74,000

79,000

80,000

75,000

80,000

75,500

80,000

76,000

80,000

76,500

80,000

77,500

80,000

78,000

80,000

78,500

80,000

79,000

80,000

The legal gross weight allowed is determined by statute, depending on

vehicle configuration and roads and highways operated on. In practice

the gross weight can be limited by a combination of tire and axle weight

limits. The combined tire and axle limits may not total what the gross limit

might otherwise be. Conversely if the axle limits totaled exceed the

statutory gross weight limits the gross weight limits apply.

Two Axle Straight Truck

 Steering Axle plus 22,400 State Roads

 Steering Axle plus 22,400 on Interstate

 Gross Weight Formula

Three Axle Straight Truck

 (One Drive Axle) Steering Axle plus 36,000 on State

Roads

 Steering Axle plus 36,000 on Interstate

 Gross Weight Formula

Three Axle Straight Truck

 (Two Drive Axles) 55,000 State Roads

 55,000 on Interstate

 Gross Weight Formula

Four Axle Straight Truck

 60,000 on State Roads

 Gross Weight Formula if not registered for at least

60,000 pounds

Three Axle Tractor Trailer

 22,400 pounds on Interstate or State Roads

 Gross Weight Formula

Four Axle Tractor Trailer

Steering Axle plus

 22,400 Single Axle on Interstate or State Roads

 36,000 for the Tandem Axle on Interstate or State

Roads, or

 Gross Weight Formula

Five Axle Tractor Trailer

Steering Axle plus

 36,000 for Tandem on Interstate or State Roads

 Gross Weight Formula for State Roads and Interstate

Six Or More Axle Tractor Trailer

Steering Axle plus

 36,000 Tandem Axles on Interstate or State Roads

 Gross Weight Formula for Tridem on Interstate or State

Roads

 Gross Weight Formula

Tractor Semi-Trailer, Trailer

Steering Axle plus

 36,000 Tandem on Interstate or State Roads

 22,400 on State Roads and Interstate Highways for

single axle

 Gross Weight Formula

IN NO INSTANCE MAY YOU EXCEED 80,000 POUNDS UNLESS AN

EXCESS WEIGHT PERMIT HAS BEEN ISSUED.

IN NO INSTANCE MAY YOU EXCEED THE GROSS WEIGHT

FORMULA LIMIT EVEN IF THE TOTAL OF THE AXLE LIMITS IS

MORE.