Truck Driver S Guidebook

Due to frequent changes in federal and state regulations, the Michigan Center for Truck Safety cannot ensure
the accuracy of the material

contained in the Guidebook beyond the date of publication. For current information, contact the Center at (800) 682-4682. This document is not
intended for legal purposes.
Truck Driver’s Guidebook

Introduction
The U.S. Congress passed the Motor Carrier Safety Act in 1984. The Act directed the Secretary of
Transportation to determine the safety fitness of all motor carriers, subject to federal regulations,
operating in Michigan interstate commerce. In 1990, Michigan adopted these regulations for motor
carriers operating in intrastate commerce. As a result of these actions, Michigan businesses which
also operate trucks may be subject to all or some of these rules. Additional requirements are also
contained in the Michigan Vehicle Code and, in some instances, the “Federal Hazardous Materials
Regulations.”
The rules and regulations governing the operation of trucks establish minimum safety and record
keeping requirements that carriers and drivers must meet. These requirements include, but are not
limited to, qualification of drivers; proper licensing of vehicles and drivers; insurance; driver drug
and alcohol testing programs; accident recording; driver’s hours of service; hazardous material
handling and training; vehicle maintenance and inspection; and vehicle loading and weight require-
ments. Failure to meet these minimum requirements subjects both carriers and drivers to civil and
criminal penalties.
Michigan Center for Truck Safety Locations

Lower Peninsula Upper Peninsula
1131 Centennial Way, Suite 2 The Plaza Central
Lansing, MI 48917 415 S. Stephenson Ave
800-682-4682 Iron Mountain, MI 49801-3400
517-321-1955 800-469-7364
fax: 517-321-0864 e-mail: upinfo@truckingsafety.org
e-mail: info@truckingsafety.org
www.truckingsafety.org
Revised November, 2010
1935 PA59; 20,000 copies

@ $.5885 per copy, total $11,771.08
Due to frequent changes in federal and state regulations, the Michigan Center for Truck Safety cannot ensure the accuracy of the material
contained in the Guidebook beyond the date of publication. For current information, contact the Center at (800) 682-4682. This document is not
Table of Contents
Telephone Numbers............................................................................................. 1
Useful Web Sites.................................................................................................. 2
General Information............................................................................................. 3
Definitions .........................................................................................................4-6
Getting and Displaying a DOT Number.............................................................. 7
CSA 2010 Information.......................................................................................... 7
Vehicle Registration & Motor Fuel Tax............................................................... 8
Driver Qualifications and Investigations............................................................ 9
Driver’s Hours of Service............................................................................. 10-11
Inspections, Repair and Maintenance.............................................................. 12
Mud Flaps............................................................................................................ 13
Brakes................................................................................................................. 14
Safety Devices.................................................................................................... 15
Cargo Securement............................................................................................. 16
Michigan Commercial Driver License (CDL).................................................... 17
Drug and Alcohol Testing.................................................................................. 18
Michigan Alcohol Law........................................................................................ 19
Hazardous Materials.....................................................................................20-22
Vehicle and Load Size...................................................................................23-24
Michigan Weight and Axle Load Limits.......................................................25-31
Bridge Gross Weight Formula......................................................................32-35
Federal Bridge Formula Chart........................................................................... 36
Traffic Safety Division and Weigh Stations...................................................... 37

contained in the Guidebook beyond the date of publication. For current information, contact the Center at 800-682-4682. This document is not
Telephone Numbers
State Agencies & State Frost Law Information Michigan Counties
Departments 800-787-8960 County Road Association of
Attorney General Michigan
Michigan Department of
Consumer Protection Environmental Quality
517-482-1189
517-373-1140 Hazardous Waste
517-335-2690 Trade Associations
Michigan Public Service Michigan Trucking Association
Commission (MPSC) DEQ Membership, insurance, books,
Interstate & Intrastate Authority 800-662-9278 forms and Federal & State Safety
517-241-6042 Regulations Manuals
Intrastate DOT Numbers Federal Agencies 517-321-1951
888-464-8736 Internal Revenue Service
Highway Users Tax American Trucking Associations
Department of Treasury 703-838-1700
800-829-4833
Fuel Tax Permits (IFTA)
517-636-4580 U.S. Department of Bridge & Border
Secretary of State
Transportation/FMCSA Crossing Information
Department of State Information Michigan Division Ambassador Bridge
Center Interstate Safety 586-467-0117
517-322-1460 517-853-5990 313-363-2872
888-767-6424 Hazardous Materials Regulations 313-363-2872
Cindy Hedman
IRP 616-450-1993 Detroit & Windsor Tunnel

517-322-1097 313-567-4422
CDL Help Line Hazmat Endorsement Threat International Bridge
517-322-5555 Assessment Program (finger- 906-635-5255
print-based background check)
Michigan Department of 877-429-7746 Blue Water Bridge
State Police 810-984-3131
Traffic Safety Division Education and
Mackinac Bridge
517-241-0501 Training 906-643-7600
Labor Michigan Center for
MIOSHA Enforcement Truck Safety Canadian Information
800-866-4674 800-682-4682 Ontario Ministry of
Transportation
Michigan Department of Michigan Center for Decision Driver Vehicle Licensing
Transportation Driving 416-235-2999
Oversize Permits 800-325-6733
517-373-2121 Canadian Council of Motor
Transport Administrators
613-736-1003
Driver Record Subscription Service To order driver motor vehicle reports:

Michigan Department of State
Provides companies with driving records of 7604 Crowner Drive
employees on an annual basis or more frequently if
Lansing, MI 48918-0002
there are violations posted to the record.
517-322-6281 or 517-322-1544
email: commercialservices@michigan.gov
1
Useful Web Sites

Safety Organizations Federal Government
• AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety • USDOT Number Registration/Updates
www.aaafoundation.org http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration-licensing/
• American Trucking Associations online-registration/onlineregdescription.htm
www.truckline.com • Federal Motor Carrier Safety
• Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance Administration
www.cvsa.org www.fmcsa.dot.gov
• County Road Association of Michigan • FMCSA’s Safety and Fitness Electronic
www.micountyroads.org Record (SAFER) System
• Michigan Center for Truck Safety www.safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
www.truckingsafety.org • FMCSA - CSA 2010
• Michigan Trucking Association http://CSA2010.fmcsa.dot.gov
www.mitrucking.org • Free and Secure Trade Program (FAST)
http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/fast-expres/
State Government menu-eng.html
• Michigan Department of State Police • Transportation Worker Identification
www.michigan.gov/msp Credential (TWIC)
• Michigan State Police – http://www.tsa.gov/what_we_do/layers/twic/in-
Traffic Safety Division dex.shtm
www.michigan.gov/motorcarrier • National Highway Traffic Safety
• Michigan Department of State Administration
(Secretary of State) www.nhtsa.dot.gov
www.michigan.gov/sos • Office of Drug and Alcohol Policy and
• Michigan Department of Transportation Compliance
www.michigan.gov/mdot www.dot.gov/ost/dapc
• Michigan Department of Treasury • U. S. Department of Transportation
www.michigan.gov/treasury (U.S. DOT)
• Michigan Department of Labor & Economic www.dot.gov
Growth • U.S. DOT’s Pipeline & Security (hazmat)
www.michigan.gov/dleg http://www.phmsa.dot.gov/hazmat
• Michigan Department of Environmental • U.S. Government Printing Office
Quality (Hazardous waste information and www.access.gpo.gov
permitting) • Hazardous Materials Background Check
www.michigan.gov/deq Fingerprinting locations
• Michigan Public Service Commission www.hazprints.com
www.michigan.gov/mpsc
• Office of Highway Safety Planning Canadian Offices
www.michigan.gov/ohsp • Canadian Council of Motor Transport
Administrators (CCMTA)
www.ccmta.ca
• Ontario Ministry of Transportation
www.mto.gov.on.ca
2
General Information
Abbreviations Truck speed limit
FMCSR -- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations MVC 257.627(6)
MVC - Michigan Vehicle Code A truck, truck-tractor with trailer, or a combination
of these vehicles, with a gross weight of 10,000
Following distance pounds or more, shall not exceed a speed of 55 mph
MVC 257.643(2) on freeways, and may not exceed 60 mph when the
Outside the corporate limits of a city or village, a maximum speed limit is 70 mph.
person shall not operate a motor vehicle with a gross
weight, loaded or unloaded, in excess of 5,000 pounds Vehicle identification
within 500 feet of a similar vehicle traveling in the MVC 257.723
same direction, except to pass. All commercial vehicles registered in Michigan

with a single or combination gross weight rating
Emergency equipment or total gross weight of more than 5,000 lbs., and
FMCSR 393.95 all towing or platform bed wreckers, must have the
Each truck, truck tractor and bus must be equipped name, city and state or registered logo or emblem of
with the following: the registered owner of the vehicle, and lessee of the
• A securely mounted and accessible fire extin- vehicle if it is being operated under lease, painted
guisher of proper type and rating or permanently attached on each side of the vehicle,
• Warning devices *(three bi-directional reflective with letters not less than three inches in height and
triangles, or 6 fusees, or 3 liquid burning flares) not lower than the bottom edge of the door.
• Spare fuses (if fuses are required to operate any
required parts or accessories). Except for towing or platform bed wrecker road
* Flares or other flame producing devices are service vehicles, the identification requirements
prohibited for some vehicles. of the subsection may be met through the use of
FMCSR 392.8. removable devices.
Every driver must make sure the proper emergency
equipment is in place and ready for use before driv- This does not apply to a truck eligible for and
ing a CMV and if stopped on the traveled portion registered under a farm or manufacturer license plate
or shoulder of a highway, the driver must place the that has a gross vehicle weight of less than 10,000
required warning devices as specified in FMCSR lbs.
392.22.
NOTE: Vehicles displaying a USDOT number need
Operating authority only comply with the identification requirements
To operate as a for-hire motor carrier of property or contained in the FMCSR 390.21.
passengers, a carrier must obtain authority. Application
for intrastate authority must be made through the Weigh stations
Michigan Public Service Commission. Application for MVC 257.724(5)
interstate authority must be made through the Federal A driver or owner of a commercial vehicle with other
Motor Carrier Safety Administration. vehicles or trailers in combination, a truck or truck-
tractor, a truck or truck-tractor with other vehicles in
Third-lane use combination, or any special mobile equipment, who
MVC 257.634(3) fails to stop at or bypasses any scales or weighing
On freeways having three or more lanes for travel station is guilty of a misdemeanor.
in the same direction, trucks with a gross weight
of more than 10,000 lbs., a truck-tractor or a
combination of a vehicle and trailer or semitrailer
must operate in the two right-hand lanes only.
3
Definitions
Some of the following definitions may be incomplete or rephrased. Please refer to the actual rules for complete definitions.
Agricultural operation Commercial vehicle

FMCSR 395.3 MVC 257.7
For information on agricultural operations, contact “Commercial vehicle” includes all motor vehicles
the Traffic Safety Division at 517-241-0501. used for the transportation of passengers for hire,
or constructed or used for transportation of goods,
Bus wares or merchandise, and/or all motor vehicles
FMCSR 390.5
designed and used for drawing other vehicles and
Any motor vehicle designed, constructed and/or not so constructed as to carry any load thereon either
used for the transportation of passengers, including independently or any part of the weight of a vehicle
taxicabs. or load so drawn.
MVC 257.4b
A motor vehicle designed for carrying 16 or more
passengers, including the driver. “Bus” does not Commercial motor vehicle (CMV)
FMCSR 390.5
include a school bus. Any self-propelled or towed motor vehicle used on a
highway in interstate or intrastate commerce to transport
Chauffeur passengers or property when the vehicle:
MVC 257.6
• Has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross com-
• A Michigan resident who is employed for the prin-
bination weight rating, gross vehicle weight or
cipal purpose of operating a motor vehicle with a
gross combination weight of 10,001 lbs. (4,536
gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000
kg) or more, whichever is greater; or
pounds or more; or
• Is designed or used to transport more than
• A person who operates a pupil transportation vehicle
8 passengers (including the driver) for
used for the regularly scheduled transportation of
compensation; or
pupils between school and home, or a person who
• Is designed or used to transport more than 15
operates a bus or school bus; or
passengers, including the driver, and is not used
• A person who operates a taxi or limousine.
to transport passengers for compensation; or
NOTE: Michigan law considers someone to be • Is used in transporting material found by the
employed for the “principal purpose” of operating Secretary of Transportation to be hazardous
a motor vehicle “when the person’s employment under 49 USC 5103 and transported in a quantity
customarily involves the necessary use of a motor requiring placarding under regulations prescribed
vehicle for hire, for transporting passengers for hire by the secretary under 49 CFR, subtitle B,
or when transporting any merchandise for display, chapter I, subchapter C.
sale or delivery.”
FATIGUE MANAGEMENT
 How difficult is it to judge how tired you are?
 What can you do to counter the effects of fatigue during a trip?
 Do you know the signs and effects of sleep disorders?
 How can you prevent fatigue?
With this free program, you can learn to identify the factors of fatigue, the family’s role and what
a driver can do to reduce it. This course is available on-line or in a classroom setting. Go to www.
truckingsafety.org. Click the “Fatigue Program” button on the home page. Once logged on,
participants can sign on and off as many times as needed. Michigan residents who complete the
program will receive certificates of participation if requested.
4
Definitions
Commercial motor vehicle driver Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

FMCSR 390.5
Any person (including the owner of a company) who
(GVWR)
FMCSR 390.5
operates a commercial motor vehicle. The value specified by the manufacturer to be the safe
loaded weight of a single vehicle.
Empty Weight
MVC 257.13b
Empty weight means the shipping weight of a
Gross Weight
MVC 257.19
vehicle as furnished by the manufacturer or a scale The weight of a vehicle without load plus the
weight taken from a weight receipt furnished by the
weight of any load thereon.
weighmaster operating scales approved and sealed by
the Michigan Department of Agriculture.
Interstate commerce
NOTE: For commercial vehicles, empty weight shall FMCSR 390.5
also mean fully equipped for the use for which the • Trade, traffic or transportation in the United
vehicle is intended. States between a place in the state and a place
outside of such state (including outside of the
Farmer United States); or
FMCSR 390.5
Any person who operates a farm or is directly • Between two places in a state through another
involved in the cultivation of land, crops or livestock state or a place outside of the United States; or
owned or directly controlled by that person. For • Between two places in a state as part of trade,
a copy of the Farmer’s Guidebook, go to www. traffic or transportation originating or terminating
truckingsafety.org and click the “Guidebooks” outside the state or the United States.
button.
Intrastate commerce
Farm vehicle driver FMCSR 390.5
FMCSR 390.5 Any trade, traffic or transportation in any state which
A person who drives only a motor vehicle that is: is not described in the term “interstate commerce”.
• Controlled and operated by a farmer as a private
motor carrier of property, within 150 air miles Medical examiner’s certificate
of the farm, and transporting either agricultural (Medical Card)
products, farm machinery or farm supplies to or FMCSR 391.43
from a farm; and A document issued by a medical examiner to a
• Not being used in the operation of a for-hire commercial motor vehicle driver certifying the driver
motor carrier; and is medically qualified under state and/or federal
• Not carrying hazardous materials of a type or standards to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
quantity that requires the vehicle to be placarded. NOTE: The certificate or a copy must be carried
by the driver when operating a commercial motor
Gross Combination Weight Rating vehicle, and the employer is required to keep either
(GCWR) the original or a copy in the driver’s qualification
FMCSR 390.5 file.
The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the
power unit plus the gross vehicle weight rating
(GVWR) of the vehicle(s) or trailer(s) being towed.
5
Definitions
Medical waivers Private motor carrier of passengers

Michigan Motor Carrier Safety Act (Public Act 181 of 1963) FMCSR 390.5
Michigan intrastate drivers only Business: A private motor carrier engaged in the
Physical Defect Waiver - Issued to a commercial transportation of passengers which is provided in
motor vehicle driver who, because of a medical the furtherance of a commercial enterprise and is not
reason, would otherwise not be qualified to operate a available to the public at large
commercial motor vehicle.
Nonbusiness: A private motor carrier involved in the
To obtain a waiver application: 517-241-0542 transportation of passengers who does not otherwise
meet the definition of a private motor carrier of
Grandfather Rights Waiver
passengers (business).
Michigan Public Act 179 of 2005
Grandfather waivers are no longer issued and Spacing between axles
previously issued waivers expire on December 31,
MVC 257.61
2014.
The distance from axle center to axle center.
Michigan Motor Carrier Safety Act
Public Act 181 of 1963
Special mobile equipment
MVC 257.62
An act to promote safety upon the public highways
Every vehicle not designed or used primarily for the
by regulating commercial motor vehicles and the
operators of those vehicles, operating in intrastate transportation of persons or property and incidentally
commerce. This act adopts the Federal Motor Carrier operated or moved over the highways, including farm
Safety Regulations. tractors, road construction or maintenance machinery,
mobile office trailers, mobile tool sheds, trailers for
Motor carrier housing stationary construction equipment, ditch-
FMCSR 390.5
digging apparatus, well-boring and well-serving
Any person or entity that operates commercial motor apparatus.
vehicles to transport cargo or passengers, either
for-hire or in private carriage. The term includes a
Tandem axle
MVC 256.67
motor carrier’s agents, officers and representatives
as well as employees responsible for hiring, Two axles spaced more than 3 feet, 6 inches apart and
supervising, training, assigning, or dispatching less than 9 feet apart.
of drivers and employees concerned with the Tandem axle assembly
installation, inspection, and maintenance of motor
MVC 257.67a
vehicle equipment and/or accessories. This definition
Refers to two axles spaced more than 3 feet, 6
includes the terms employer and exempt motor
carrier. inches apart and less than 9 feet apart with one axle
in front of the other and so attached to the vehicles
Simply: Anyone operating a vehicle meeting the wherein an attempt is made by connecting the
definition of a ‘commercial motor vehicle’ to support mechanism to distribute the weight equally between
any type of business activity or service is considered the two axles.
a motor carrier, (e.g. landscapers, plumbers,
dealerships, septic tank services, tree services, Tank vehicle
farmers, etc.) A tank vehicle means any CMV (as defined in
257.67a) that is designed to transport any liquid or
gaseous material within a tank that is permanently
or temporarily attached to the vehicle. It does not
include a portable tank having a rated capacity less
than 1,000 gallons.
6
Getting and Displaying a DOT Number

A Michigan motor carrier operating commercial The Michigan Center for Truck Safety website www.
motor vehicle/s (see definition page 6) in interstate truckingsafety.org provides an internet quicklink
or intrastate commerce must apply for and obtain (Get Your USDOT Number Now) to the FMCSA
a USDOT number. The number is a registration site. To apply by telephone intrastate carriers can
number that identifies the motor carrier to the contact the Michigan Public Service Commission at
USDOT. The number must be displayed on both 888-464-8736. Interstate carriers can contact the
sides of the truck or truck tractor along with the FMCSA at 517-853-5990.
motor carrier’s business name; in accordance with
FMCSR §390.21. Michigan motor carriers may The Michigan Center for Truck Safety does not take
apply for the USDOT number using the internet or by applications or issue USDOT numbers.
telephone.
CSA 2010 Information

If a carrier is experiencing excessive violations or categories: Unsafe driving, Fatigued driving, Driver
one of its vehicles is involved in a serious accident, fitness, Controlled substances and alcohol, Vehicle
the carrier may be contacted by state or federal maintenance, Cargo related and Crash indicator.
investigators to conduct a review of the carrier’s Carriers are encouraged to log in and review the
DOT safety records and files. During the review, the information available at http://csa2010.fmcsa.dot.gov.
investigators may also review other information they
deem necessary to the nature of the review. Unsafe Currently a carrier’s safety profile may be viewed
carriers, based on the finding of a review, would be online at: www.fmcsa.safersys.org. At the time a
subject to fines and penalties. In carrier registers for and obtains a USDOT
extreme cases of non-compliance, number, a “pin number” is also provided
the carrier could ordered to cease to the carrier. The pin number allows
operation. a carrier to log into FMCSA system to
update information and review data and
Currently a program called SafeStat violations. Similarly, carriers will be
is used to measure carrier compliance. Safestat is able to review CSA 2010 scores, crash data, vehicle
based on roadside inspections and scores carriers in and driver violations, as well as, the driver name
four categories: Management practices, Crash Data, and vehicle information associated these violations
Driver and Vehicle. Scoring ranges from 0-100 with received on the road. This online information is also
100 being the worst. available to the general public (except for crash data),
safety management control information or driver
SafeStat is being replaced with a new measurement identification.
system called Comprehensive Safety Analysis
CSA 2010. Once CSA 2010 is fully functional, To find more in-depth information visit: www.fmcsa.
it will measure roadside violation data in seven dot.gov and click the icon for CSA 2010.
7
Vehicle Registration & Motor Fuel Tax

Elected Gross Vehicle Weight Plate Log/Farm Plate
This is the required Michigan registration plate for: Special registration used exclusively in the operation
• Trucks weighing 8,001 pounds or more of a farm and a wood harvester operation (to include
• Trucks weighing 8,000 pounds or less towing a wood harvesting equipment) only and may not
trailer in a profit-making venture (does not be used for-hire or to transport processed lumber.
include pickups) Vehicles displaying this plate may be used for
Contact your local Secretary of State for further personal transportation.
information.
Unified Carrier Registration (UCR)
International Fuel Tax Agreement Requires individuals and companies operating
(IFTA) commercial motor vehicles in interstate or
IFTA requires a fuel tax license for a qualified motor international commerce to register their business with
vehicle used for the transportation of persons or the Michigan Public Service Commission and pay an
property in interstate commerce (includes farm annual fee based on the size of their fleet.
plated vehicles). Recreational vehicles are exempt A “Commercial Motor Vehicle” requiring
from IFTA. UCR registration is defined as a self-propelled or
towed vehicle used on the highways in commerce
principally to transport passengers or cargo, if the
International Registration Plan (IRP) vehicle:
IRP is a program for the licensing of commercial a) has a gross vechicle weight of 10,001 pounds
vehicles being operated in interstate commerce. or more;
Motor carriers are issued an “apportioned”
b) is designed to transport 11 or more passengers
registration plate and cab card for each vehicle. The
(including the driver);
card lists the IRP states the vehicle is licensed to
enter and the elected weight for each state. c) is used in transporting hazardous materials in
a quantity requiring placarding.
IFTA and IRP Qualifying Vehicles Commercial Vehicle Operator
IFTA and IRP apply to vehicles operating in interstate
commerce only: Registration (CVOR)
a) having 2 axles and a gross vehicle weight or Motor carriers operating trucks having a registered
registered weight exceeding 26,000 pounds, gross weight/actual weight of more than 9900
or pounds or buses designed to carry ten or more
b) having 3 or more axles regardless of weight, passengers, within Ontario, are required to
or register as Commercial Vehicle Operators. For
c) is used in a combination of vehicles and more information contact the Ontario Ministry of
the gross combination weight or the Transportation at 416-246-7166 or their web site at
registered weight exceeds 26,000 pounds. www.mto.gov.on.ca/.
For complete IFTA and IRP information contact the
Michigan Department of Treasury (IFTA) at 517-
636-4580 and the Michigan Department of State
(IRP) at 517-322-1097.
8
Driver Qualification and Investigation

FMCSR Part 391
tate and federal safety regulations require drivers of commercial motor vehicles (see definitions) to meet certain
S minimum standards. Motor carriers (employers) must document and maintain each driver’s qualifications
in a driver qualification file, and maintain a driver investigation history file for each driver. A motor carrier shall
not require or permit a person to drive a commercial motor vehicle unless that person is qualified. A motor carrier
(employer) who also operates a commercial motor vehicle is a driver and must comply with both the rules that apply
to motor carriers and to drivers.
A qualified driver must: Driver investigation history file

• Be at least 21-years-old to operate in interstate A motor carrier must make inquiries to, and obtain
commerce responses from a driver applicant’s previous employers
• Be at least 18-years-old to operate in intrastate during the previous three years, when the driver
commerce operated a commercial motor vehicle. The inquiries
• Be at least 21-years-old to transport hazardous and responses must be maintained in a confidential
material if the vehicle requires placarding driver investigative history file.
• Read, speak and understand the English language These inquires must include:
well enough to communicate with the general • Work history
public and regulatory officials, and to respond to • Accident history
inquiries and make entries on reports and records • Drug and alcohol testing information (if
• Be able to operate the commercial motor vehicle applicable)
safely
• Have the ability and training to safely load and NOTE: For further information, contact the Center
secure cargo at 800-682-4682.
• Possess a valid driver’s license for the type of
vehicle he/she is to operate. Driver rights
An employer must inform a driver applicant of his/her
Driver qualification file rights concerning information obtained from a previous
A driver qualification file must contain: employer. They include the right to:
• A driver’s application for employment • Review the information obtained
• A copy of the driver’s motor vehicle report (an- • Ask a previous employer to change or correct
nual) information and
• The driver’s report of violations (annual) • Submit a rebuttal statement to a previous eployer
• Employer’s review of driving record (annual) which must accompany any information the
• A valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate and/or previous sends out.
waiver
• Proof of a road test or equivalent. These requirements are contained in FMCSR 391.23.
NOTE: Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA)
Disqualifying offense for drivers Out-of-Service Criteria allows enforcement officers
A driver who is disqualified shall not drive a to place truck drivers out of service if they were
commercial motor vehicle and a motor carrier shall unable to communicate sufficiently in the country in
not require or permit a disqualified driver to drive a which they are operating.
commercial motor vehicle. Disqualifying offenses are
contained in FMCSR 391, 392 and 383.
9
Driver’s Hours of Service

(Cargo Carrying Drivers)
FMCSR Part 395
MV drivers are limited in the number of hours they can work and drive. Once a driver has worked
C a prescribed number of hours, he/she is no longer eligible to drive until he/she has met the off-duty
requirements. Employers must ensure driver compliance and maintain accurate time records (for each driver).
Applicability Maximum driving & duty rules

The hours of service rules apply to any person who • A driver:
operates a commercial motor vehicle as defined in • May drive 11 hours following 10 consecutive
FMCSR 390 (see page 5). hours off-duty
• May not drive beyond the 14th hour after coming
on duty
Exemptions
The 14 hour calculation begins when a driver
• Interstate farm vehicle drivers operating within a
comes on duty and includes all off-duty time,
100 air-mile radius of the farm
driving time, on-duty not driving timer and all
• Michigan intrastate farm vehicle drivers operating
sleeper berth time; less than 8 hours.
within a 150 air-mile radius of the farm
• May not drive after 60/70 hours on-duty in any 7/8
• Government employees driving CMVs operated
consecutive days however, may begin a new 7/8
by a unit of government
day period anytime he/she takes 34 consecutive
• Utility service vehicle drivers
hours off-duty.
• Michigan drivers engaged in seasonal construction
activities (solely within the state) are permitted to
use 70/80 hours during any 7/8 consecutive days 10 consecutive hours off-duty
and may drive 12 hours during a 16 hour tour of The 10 consecutive hours off duty may be achieved by
duty. taking:
NOTE: Although these drivers have been granted a) 10 consecutive hours off-duty
additional hours they must still comply with the 10 b) 10 consecutive hours in a sleeper berth
consecutive hours off-duty rule. (Act 181 of 1963 sec c) Combining off-duty and sleeper berth time,
480.15) totaling 10 consecutive hours (unbroken)
NOTE: When combining off-duty and sleeper berth
Duty status time, there is no minimum amount of time a driver
Driving must spend in the sleeper berth.
All time spent at the operational controls of a
commercial motor vehicle in operation. Sleeper berth provision
On-duty A driver may achieve the equivalent of 10 consecutive
All time from the driver begins work until the driver hours off-duty by combining a sleeper berth period
is relieved of all responsibilities for performing work. of 8 or more hours (but less than 10) with a separate
On-duty includes: period of at least 2 consecutive hours off-duty, or in
• Driving the sleeper berth, or any combination of off-duty and
• Performing all other duties required by the carrier sleeper berth time.
• All time spent providing breath and alcohol
specimens for drug and alcohol testing; required Note: The equivalent of 10 consecutive hours off-duty
by federal regulations is not the same as 10 consecutive hours off-duty. A
• Any other compensated work (part-time jobs) driver using the sleeper berth provision will not begin
a new 14 hour tour of duty or 11 hours of driving
Off-duty
following the two qualifying periods.
When a carrier relieves a driver from all responsibility
for performing work and the driver is not performing
any other compensated work.
10
Driver’s Hours of Service

(Cargo Carrying Drivers)
FMCSR Part 395
Logbook requirements 16 Hour Work Shift
• The daily log is an accurate and complete A driver operating a vehicle which requires a
record of a driver’s activities for each 24-hour CDL to operate and who returns to the work
period reporting location each day is permitted one 16
• Unless exempt (see short haul operations this hour work shift in any 7 day period, or following
page), all drivers must record their duty status 34 consecutive hours off-duty. During the 16
using the daily logbook hour shift, the driver must complete a daily log
• All entries in the logbook shall be accurate, sheet, and may drive during the 15th and 16th hour
legible and in the driver’s own handwriting provided he/she does not exceed 11 hours of
• Employers must retain and review the daily driving for the work shift.
logs at their principal place of business
(previous six months) A driver operating a vehicle which does not
• Employers must retain and review supporting require a CDL to operate and who returns to the
documents to verify the logs are true and work reporting location each day is permitted
accurate. two 16 hour work shifts in any 7 day period, or
following 34 consecutive hours off-duty. During
Short-Haul Operations the 16 hour days, the driver may drive during the
CDL Vehicles 15th and 16th hour, provided he/she does not exceed
A CDL driver operating a property carrying ve- 11 hours of driving for the work shift.
hicle which requires a CDL to operate, does not NOTE: During a 16 hour work shift, a driver
have to complete the daily log if he/she: is not limited to the number of miles he/she may
• following 10 consecutive hours off duty, does travel from the work reporting location.
not drive more than 11 hours, and
• operates within a 100 air-mile radius of the Passenger Transportation
normal work reporting location, and Motor carriers of passengers operate under
• returns to the work reporting location and is different rules. Those requirements are also
released from duty within 12 hours after com- contained in FMCSR Part 395. For additional
ing on duty. information, contact the Michigan Center for
Non CDL Vehicles Truck Safety at 800-682-4682.
A driver operating a property carrying vehicle
which does not require a CDL to operate does not
have to complete the daily log is he/she:
• following 10 consecutive hours off duty, does
not drive more than 11 hours, and
• operates withn a 150 air-mile radius of the
normal work reporting location, and
• returns to the normal work reporting location
within 14 hours of coming on duty.
NOTE: Although exempted from the logbook
requirement, motor carriers must still keep a daily
record of each driver’s hours of service, e.g., time
card, time sheet.
11
Inspection, Repair & Maintenance

FMCSR Part 396
Required driver inspections Roadside inspection

Drivers are required to perform the following daily FMCSR 396.9
inspections of vehicles, equipment and cargo each The driver shall deliver a roadside inspection
day a vehicle is used: report upon arriving at the next terminal or
• Pre-trip inspection: FMCSR 392.7, 392.8, and facility, and:
396.13 • The report is to be reviewed
• Cargo inspection (enroute): FMCSR 392.9 • Defects noted shall be repaired (prior to vehicle
• Post-trip inspection (written); FMCSR 396.11 being re-dispatched)
• Return the completed inspection report to issuing
NOTE: The post-trip inspection is the only driver agency within 15 days
inspection which is required to be documented. • Maintain a copy of the report for 12 months from
Additionally, there are no requirements for a driver the date of inspection.
inspection report to be carried on the vehicle.
Maintenance schedule
Periodic inspection (annual) A motor carrier must have a written maintenance
FMCSR 396.17
schedule for each vehicle operated (including trailers)
Every CMV shall: outlining routine vehicle maintenance and the due
• Be inspected at least once every 12 months by a dates for the type of maintenance.
qualified inspector and;
• At a minimum, pass the inspection criteria of Vehicle maintenance records
FMCSR Appendix G; and FMCSR 396.3
• Must have a copy of the inspection report or other Motor carriers must maintain a vehicle maintenance
form of documentation on the vehicle; and file for each vehicle (including trailers) under the
• For at least 14 months following the inspection, a carrier’s control for 30 consecutive days or more. At
motor carrier must retain the original or a copy of a minimum, these records must:
the annual inspection report for each vehicle under • Identify the vehicle.
its control and make them available for review. • Indentify the nature and due dates for inspections
and maintenance.
Periodic (annual) inspector • Indicate dates maintenance and repairs
qualifications performed.
FMCSR 396.19 • Be maintained for one year and for 6 months
Persons performing the periodic inspection must after the vehicle leaves the carrier’s control.
be “qualified,” meaning they:
• Understand the inspection criteria of Part 393 and Intermodal equipment providers must maintain
understand the inspection criteria of Appendix G, or cause to be maintained, the same records (listed
and above) for each unit of intermodal equipment they
• Are knowledgeable of inspection procedures, tools tender or intend to tender to a motor carrier.
used, and
• Are capable of performing an inspection by….
[see FMCSR 396.19(a)(3)].
Motor carriers are responsible to ensure that
persons performing the periodic (annual)
inspection are qualified and must maintain
evidence of each person’s qualifications for:
• The period during which the individual is
performing inspections, and
• One year thereafter.
12
Mud Flaps
Michigan Motor Carrier Safety Act
Michigan Public Act 181 of 1963
truck, truck tractor, trailer, semitrailer, or is used, it shall not have attached any type of lamp,
A any combination of these, when used on a
highway, shall be so constructed or equipped as to
breakable reflective material or reflecting buttons; nor
may the device extend beyond the maximum width of
prevent water or other road surface substances from the vehicle or combination.
being thrown from the rear wheels of the vehicle
or combination at tangents exceeding 22.5 degrees
measured from the road surface. If a flap type device
Measurements are to be made while vehicles are unloaded.
The above diagram can be used as a guide in determining whether your vehicle is required to have mud
guards or flaps. Compliance may be determined by whether the rear wheels of a commercial vehicle throw
road surface substances back and up at an angle greater than 22.5 degrees.
(1) In inches, measure from the point of rear-most tire contact to the point on the road surface below where
the mud flap is or will be installed.
(2) Take the measurement and multiply by .4142.
(3) Measure up by the amount arrived at after the multiplication factor. That point is where the mud flap
must be at or below.
Examples: A. 18 inches x .4142 = 7.45 (or fewer) inches off the ground
B. 60 inches x .4142 = 24.85 (or fewer) inches off the ground
Quick Check: Measure 5 inches of vertical for every 12 inches of horizontal.
13
Brakes
FMCSR Part 393
General requirements Warning devices and gauges
• All commercial motor vehicles (including trailers) In general, a bus, truck or truck-tractor must be
must be equipped with brakes acting on all wheels equipped with a signal that provides a warning to the
• All brakes with which a motor vehicle is equipped driver when a failure occurs in the vehicle’s braking
(including trailers) must be capable of operating at system. The type of warning device that is required on
all times. the vehicle depends on the brake system.
Exceptions More information can be found in the FMCSR or by
 A truck or truck-tractor which has 3 or more axles calling MCTS.
and was manufactured before July 25, 1980 does not
have to have brakes on the front axle, provided all Automatic brake adjusters
brake components—except the spider and drum— • Every CMV equipped with a hydraulic brake system
have been removed and manufactured on or after October 20, 1993 must
 Any full trailer, any semitrailer or any pole trailer be equipped with automatic brake adjusters.
having a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 3,000 • Every CMV equipped with an air brake system and
pounds or less is not required to have brakes if the manufactured on or after October 20, 1994 must be
weight of the towed vehicle resting on the towing equipped with automatic brake adjusters.
vehicle does not exceed 40 percent of the towing • Automatic adjusters must meet Federal Motor Ve-
vehicle’s GVW hicle Safety Standards.
 Disabled vehicles being towed.
Automatic adjustment indicators
Use of surge brakes Every CMV equipped with an air brake system which
Interstate: contains an external automatic adjuster or exposed push
• GVWR of 12,000 pounds or less, when the GVWR rod and was manufactured on or after October 20, 1994,
does not exceed 1.75 times the GVWR of the towing must be equipped with automatic brake adjustment
vehicle; and indicators (push rod indicators). Replacement parts must
• GVWR greater than 12,000 pounds but less than meet this requirement.
20,001 pounds, when the GVWR does not exceed
1.25 times the GVWR of the towing vehicle
Intrastate:
Trailers with a gross weight of 15,000 pounds or less
Refer to FMCSR Part 393 for complete details
may be equipped with surge brakes (MVC257.705(1)
concerning brakes and all other required equipment
(c).
on commercial motor vehicles.
Note: Surge brakes are hydraulic trailer braking sys-
tems that rely on the braking action of the towing unit
to stop the towed vehicle. FMCSR 393.5.
Breakaway and emergency braking

Every trailer (except trailers having three or more
axles) required to be equipped with brakes, shall be
equipped with brakes so that, upon breakaway from a
towing vehicle, all trailer brakes shall automatically and
immediately engage and remain engaged for at least 15
minutes.
14
Safety Devices
FMCSR Part 393
Full trailers and dolly converters Driveaway-towaway operations

• Must be equipped with a safety device that pre- • Tow-bars shall be plainly marked by the
vents accidental separation manufacturer
• Must be equipped with a safety device that pre- • Must be equipped with a safety device that
vents the towed vehicle from breaking loose in the prevents the towed vehicle from breaking
event the tow-bar fails or becomes disconnected loose in the event the tow-bar fails or becomes
and must: disconnected. The safety devices:
o Not be attached to the pintle hook or any other o Shall be equipped with at least two safety
device on the towing vehicle to which the tow- chains or cables, if used
bar is attached o Shall be crossed if chains or cables are used
o Not have more slack than necessary to permit o Must not have more slack than necessary to
the vehicles to turn properly (never twist or permit the vehicles to turn properly (never twist
knot a chain) or knot a chain).
o Have the ultimate strength of not less than the
gross weight of the vehicle or vehicles being
towed
o Be connected to the towed and towing vehicle
in a manner to prevent the tow-bar from
dropping to the ground in the event it fails or
disconnects.
o Have the towed vehicle be equipped with two
safety chains or cables or a bridle arrangement
of one if safety chains or cables are used.
More information about coupling devices and towing methods can be found in Part 393 of the FMCSR.
Non-driveaway-towaway operations
Should the coupling device become detached during travel–although not required by law–crossed safety
devices (Figure 1) will minimize the lateral movement of the towed vehicle as illustrated in Figure 2 where
the safety devices are not crossed.
Figure 1
Figure 2
NOTE: Refer to the FMCSR for complete details concerning

the proper use of safety devices.
15
Cargo Securement
FMCSR Part 393
General intrastate and interstate Intrastate and interstate operations:
operations general length
• Each CMV transporting cargo must be loaded
and equipped to prevent the cargo from leaking, • When the article is blocked or braced to prevent
spilling, blowing off or falling from the motor forward movement, it must be secured by at least
vehicle. one tiedown for each 10 feet of article length or
• Cargo must be contained, immobilized or secured fraction thereof.
to prevent shifting upon the vehicle to the extent • When an article is not blocked or positioned to
that the vehicle’s stability or maneuverability is prevent forward movement, additional tiedown
not adversely affected. devices must be used. Refer to FMCSR Part 393.
• Some cargo securement rules do not apply to
Intrastate and interstate opera- “special purpose vehicles.” See the FMCSR for
complete information.
tions: general tiedown devices • Tiedown devices must be adjustable can tighten
• All devices and systems used must meet the per- them.
formance criteria of FMCSR, 393.102. • Front-end structures, if used, must meet the crite-
• All vehicle structures, systems, parts and ria found in FMCSR 393.114.
components used to secure cargo must be in
proper working order when used to perform Specific securement requirements
that function with no damaged or weakened
components that will adversely affect their
by commodity type
Complete information on specific securement
performance.
requirements by commodity type can be found in the
• Repairs must comply with applicable standards of
FMCSR 393.104 or the manufacturer’s standard. FMCSR 393.116 – 393.136 for the following:
• Logs
• Tiedowns must be attached and secured in
a manner to prevent them from unfastening, • Dressed lumber or similar building products
opening, releasing or becoming loose. • Metal coils
• Vehicle structures and anchor points must meet • Paper rolls
the performance criteria of FMCSR, Part 393.102. • Concrete pipe
• Materials used as dunnage or dunnage bags, • Intermodal containers
chocks, cradles or shoring bars must not have • Automobiles, light trucks and vans
damage or defects which would compromise the • Heavy vehicles, equipment and machinery
effectiveness of the securement system • Flattened or crushed vehicles
• The aggregate working load limit (WLL) of the • Roll-on/roll-off or hook-lift containers
securement system must meet or exceed half the • Large boulders
weight of the article or group of articles (See
FMCSR 393.106(d) for complete explanation).
• Tiedowns not marked by the manufacturer with
a WLL will be given the WLL found in FMCSR
393.108.
16
Michigan Commercial Driver License (CDL)

Michigan Vehicle Code
Who needs a CDL in Michigan?
If you are going to operate ANY of the vehicles below either within the state or across state/foreign borders,
you need a CDL.
What type of CDL do I need?

A Michigan resident needs a valid operator or chauffeur license with the appropriate group designation
to operate the following vehicles.
Group A To operate a vehicle which is:

• A combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more,
and tows a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds
Group B To operate:
• A single vehicle having a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more
Group C To operate small vehicles:
• Designed to carry 16 or more people including the driver; or
• Not meeting the requirements for group A or B which carry hazardous materials in amounts requiring
placarding (refer to CDL Manual)
What endorsements do I need on my CDL in Michigan?

In addition to the appropriate CDL group designation, endorsements are required for the following:
T DOUBLE or TRIPLE TRAILERS (Triple-trailer combinations are not permitted in

Michigan)
P PASSENGER: For vehicles which are designed to carry more than 15 people (including the driver)
N TANK VEHICLES: For vehicles designed to haul liquids or liquefied gases in permanently mounted
tanks of any size or portable tanks rated at 1,000 gallons or more
H HAZARDOUS MATERIALS: To carry hazardous materials in amounts requiring placarding (in-
cludes small trucks, pickup trucks and passenger vehicles)
X An “X” endorsement will appear on the license instead of the H and N codes when an applicant
receives both the tanker and hazardous materials’ endorsements
CDL Exceptions
Michigan offers exceptions to the CDL requirements, which include:
• Active military duty operating military vehicles
• Police and firefighters operating authorized emergency vehicles
• Farmers operating within a 150-mile radius of a farm (an “F” endorsement may be required)
• Individuals operating motor homes or vehicles used exclusively to transport personal possessions or family
members for nonbusiness purposes
NOTE: A vehicle with airbrakes that does not meet the group A, B or C definitions listed above, does
not require a CDL to operate.
17
Drug and Alcohol Testing

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Parts 40 and 382
Summary
comprehensive set of federal regulations Additionally, an employer will need to contract with:
A requires persons holding a Commercial Driver
License (CDL) and who operate a commercial
• Qualified drug and alcohol collection facilities
• Certified laboratories
motor vehicle (as defined in the Federal Motor • Medical review officers
Carrier Safety Regulations, Part 382) to be tested • Substance abuse professionals.
for controlled substances and alcohol. These rules
Maintaining accurate records is critical to ensuring
preempt any state testing requirements and apply to
compliance with these rules.
both interstate and intrastate drivers.
Most companies subject to these rules use the
Companies that employ these persons must establish
services of a third party administrator.
a drug and alcohol testing program (as prescribed in
Part 382) and conduct: Owner-operators or a company with only
one driver must contract with a third-party
• Pre-employment testing
administrator.
• Random testing
• Reasonable cause testing
• Post-accident testing Consortium/Third party administrator (C/TPA)
is a service agent that provides, administers or
• Return-to-duty testing coordinates one or more drug and/or alcohol testing
• Follow-up drug and alcohol testing. services to employers, subject to FMCSA drug and
alcohol testing regulations.
A person who fails a required test or refuses to test
is considered medically unqualified to operate any
commercial motor vehicle, as defined in FMCSA
The complete text of the drug and alcohol testing
390.5 (see page 5).
regulations and the procedure can be found in the
Essential to an employer’s drug and alcohol testing Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, Parts 382
program are the requirements for: and 40 respectively.
• A written drug and alcohol testing policy
• Driver and supervisor education
• A scientifically conducted random selection
process.
ESTABLISHING A DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING PROGRAM

Are your drivers required to be drug tested under federal law? What do you do if a
driver fails a random test? The Center has trained professionals who can answer your
drug and alcohol testing questions.
Michigan Center for Truck Safety 800-682-4682

Upper Peninsula 800-469-7364
18
Michigan Alcohol Laws

(For CDL Drivers)
V iolations of Michigan’s drunk driving laws af-

fect a driver’s CDL.
For a first violation, the period of revocation will be
one year (3 years if transporting hazardous material).
A second violation, regardless of the time between
Under Michigan law, a person who has an alcohol violations, will result in revocation for life, with the
content of .04 grams or more may not operate a possibility of reinstatement after 10 years.
commercial motor vehicle. With respect to these
These revocations also apply to a CDL driver while
laws, a commercial motor vehicle is one which meets
operating a non-commercial motor vehicle. A
Michigan’s requirements for a CDL.
non-commercial motor vehicle does not include a
A CMV driver will be placed out of service recreational vehicle used off-road.
for 24 hours if he/she:
When operating a non-commercial motor
• Refuses a preliminary breath test (PBT) vehicle, the alcohol content of .08 BAC
• Consumes alcohol within 4 hours prior would be used to determine a drunk
to operating a CMV driving violation.
• Consumes alcohol while operating a
CMV These laws are contained in Act 300 of the
• Has an alcohol content of .02 while Michigan Vehicle Code, Sections 257.319b and
operating a CMV. 257.625.
In addition to being placed out of service, if a driver Other violations which would result in revocation
is convicted of a violation of Michigan’s drunk include:
driving laws or those of another jurisdiction, the • Leaving the scene of an accident
driver’s CDL will be revoked. • Using a vehicle to commit a felony
• Refusing a request for a chemical test.
The CDL will also be revoked if the driver refuses
a request by a peace officer, of this state or another
jurisdiction, for a chemical test for the presence of
drugs or alcohol.
NEED A SPEAKER FOR YOUR MEETING?

Companies, business groups or organizations who would like to schedule a
seminar, workshop or onsite training contact
Michigan Center for Truck Safety 800-682-4682

Upper Peninsula 800-469-7364
19
Hazardous Materials
General Information
his material is provided as a general reference. Michigan has adopted the Federal Hazardous
T Materials Regulations (FHMR) into state law. The FHMR should be reviewed prior to shipping or
transporting hazardous materials. The FHMR is found in Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 100-
180. Compliance is mandatory for intrastate and interstate transportation.
Hazardous Materials Security Plan

Part 172, Subpart I
Requires many shippers and transporters of hazardous materials to develop and
adhere to a security plan.
Training
Part 172, Subpart I
Requires employers to train, test and certify all employees involved in the transpor-
tation of hazardous material. Training shall include:
• General awareness/familiarization training
• Function-specific training
• Safety training
• Security awareness training.
As of December 22, 2003, employers required to have a security plan must also provide employees with in-
depth security training concerning the security plan and its implementation.
Shipping Papers
Shipping papers (sometimes called manifests or bills of lading) are required for almost all hazardous material
shipments, even if it is for your own use. There is no required form (except for hazardous waste, see below),
but there is a required format. Example below:
PROPER SHIPPING HAZARD CLASS IDENTIFICATION PACKING GROUP TOTAL QUANTITY
NAME 3 NUMBER II 5 gallons
Gasoline UN1203
Shipping papers must also contain preferred or an MSDS that contains the required
the following information.)
• Additional Requirements (Some products have
• Total Quantity (i.e., 1,000 lbs., 2,000 gallons, 10 additional descriptions that must be included; see
cylinders, or 1 cargo tank) Section 172.201, 172.202, and 172.203.)
• Shipper Certification (see exceptions in 172.204b) • Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest (A form
• Emergency Telephone Number (Must be someone required by the EPA, it may meet the shipping
familiar with the product carried and can provide paper requirement if all of the required
response information. Pagers, voice mailboxes information is present.)
and callbacks are illegal.)
• Emergency Response Information (The U.S.
DOT NA Emergency Response Guidebook is
20
Hazardous Materials
General information
Materials of Trade
Certain hazardous materials transported in small quantities are subject to limited regulation under
section 173.6 of the Hazardous Materials Regulations. Materials of Trade (MOTs) are hazardous materials
that are carried on motor vehicles for at least one of the following purposes:
• To protect the health and safety of the motor vehicle operator or passengers (examples include insect
repellent, self-contained breathing apparatus and fire extinguishers)
• To support the operation or maintenance of a motor vehicle or auxiliary equipment (examples include
engine starting fluid, spare battery and gasoline) or
• When carried by a private motor carrier to directly support a principal business that is not transportation
(examples include lawn care, pest control, plumbing, welding, painting, door-to-door sales).
MOTs are limited to the hazardous materials in the following classes and divisions*:
• Flammable or combustible liquids (Class 3), such as paint, paint thinner or gasoline
• Corrosive materials (Class 8), such as muriatic acid, battery fluid or drain cleaner
• Miscellaneous hazardous materials (Class 9), such as asbestos or self-inflating lifeboats
• Flammable gases (Division 2.1), such as acetylene or propane
• Nonflammable compressed gases (Division 2.2), such as oxygen or nitrogen
• Flammable solids (Division 4.1), such as charcoal
• Spontaneously combustible materials (Division 4.3), such as test kits
• Oxidizers (Division 5.1), such as bleaching compounds
• Organic peroxides (Division 5.2), such as benzoyl peroxide
• Poisons (Division 6.1), such as certain pesticides or
• Consumer commodities (ORM-D), such as hair spray or spray paint.
Note: The MOTs exemptions does not exempt motor carriers from the insurance requirements in
FMCSR Part 387.
HM Permits/Registration
• For any placardable amount of hazardous materials, intrastate or interstate, the shipper or transporter must
register with the U.S. DOT/RSPA. Registration information can be obtained by calling 202-366-4109.
• The transportation of hazardous waste in the State of Michigan requires a permit from the Department of
Environmental Quality at
734-432-1256. For environmental information, call 517-335-2690.
• The transportation of explosives and fireworks in the State of Michigan requires a permit from the MSP/
Fire Marshal Division, 248-380-1102.
• The storage of regulated medical waste in the State of Michigan requires a permit from the Department of
Environmental Quality,
517-241-1320.
• The transportation of division 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 explosives, materials that are poisonous by inhalation,
highway route controlled quantities of radioactive materials, compressed or refrigerated liquid methane
in concentration of 85% or greater, in a bulk tank with a capacity or 3,500 gallons or greater requires a
Hazardous Materials Safety Permit issued through USDOT/FMCSA.
21
Hazardous Materials
General information
Railroad Crossings Routing
Michigan law (Section 257.669) requires any vehicle The following state routes are prohibited to
that is marked OR placarded to stop prior to crossing shipments of flammable liquids or explosive
a railroad grade. This includes farm vehicles, such as materials:
anhydrous ammonia tanks. Markings include identifi- • M-10 (Lodge Freeway), Detroit, from 8 Mile
cation numbers, shipping names, the “HOT” symbol, Road to Wyoming Road (approx. 4.5 miles) and
the “Marine Pollutant” symbol or any other U.S. from Howard Street to Woodward Avenue (under
DOT hazardous material marking that is required to Cobo Hall, approx. 1 mile)
be on the outside of the vehicle. Placarding includes
• I-696, Detroit, from Telegraph Road east to I-75
any U.S. DOT hazardous material placard that is
(approx. 10 miles)
required to be on the outside of the vehicle.
• M-59, Detroit, 1.1 mile from the Mound Road exit
in either direction.
All of Michigan’s major bridges and tunnels have
prohibitions or restrictions on the shipment of haz-
ardous materials. Contact the appropriate authority to
obtain specific information.
Michigan Bridge/Tunnel Restrictions

Ambassador Bridge PROHIBITED
Detroit Corrosives, explosives,
313-496-1111 radioactive materials, flammables
Windsor Tunnel PROHIBITED
Detroit Corrosives, explosives,
313-567-4422 radioactive materials, flammables
Mackinac Bridge PLACARDED LOADS

St. Ignace Escort vehicle required
906-643-7600
International Bridge ESCORTED LOADS
Sault Ste. Marie Explosives, flammables and
906-635-5255 radioactive materials
Blue Water Bridge RESTRICTIONS
Port Huron Explosives, radioactive materials,
810-984-3131 organic peroxides
PROHIBITED
Pyrophoric liquids
For questions concerning compliance requirements under the Hazardous Material Regulations, contact:
Sgt. Susan Fries
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AND INVESTIGATIONS UNIT
Traffic Safety Division - Michigan State Police
517-241-0583
22
Vehicle and Load Size

t is vital that carriers and drivers understand the size requirements (height, width, length and weight) for
I commercial motor vehicles operating on Michigan highways. The next several pages of the Truck Driver’s
Guidebook will highlight some of these requirements.
Highway types Load projections

State roadways have use restrictions placed on them See MVC 257.719
by the Michigan Department of Transportation  A load may not project more than 3 feet beyond
(MDOT) for commercial motor vehicles. Restrictions the front of the vehicle provided the length of
are based on vehicle size and the time of year, and the vehicle and load do not exceed the allowable
are depicted in the MDOT Truck Operators’ Map. vehicle length.
The map depicts state roadways (designated or  Any amount of overhang from the rear of the
nondesignated routes) in various colors and explains vehicle is permitted, provided the length of the
their particular use: vehicle and load do not exceed the allowable
 Green Routes - Special Designated Highway vehicle length.
(increases size and weight provisions; all weath-
er/all seasonal) FMCSR 393.11 (Footnotes 9 and 10) and 393.87
 Gold Routes - Same as the green; also desig- require a load that extends more than 4 feet from the
nated as National Truck Network routes rear of a vehicle and/or 4 inches from the side shall
 Black Routes - Open to legal axle loads and be marked with additional clearance lamps (when
normal length/width limitations year round (same headlamps are required to be used) and 18-inch
as green for weight) square red/orange fluorescent flags.
 Red Routes - Seasonal routes (same as black
for length/width). Subject to weight limitations
Length shall not include safety and energy
during the spring as noted below:
conservation devices. Such a device shall be
 Solid red line - Subject to 25% weight
excluded from a determination of length as long as
reduction on each axle
it is not designed or used for the carrying of cargo.
 Broken red line - Subject to 35% weight
reduction on each axle.
The Truck Operators’ Map may be obtained A rear overhang of 6 feet is permissible for
by contacting the Michigan Department of trailers with a length of 50 feet or less if the
Transportation (MDOT) at 517-373-2121. trailer is designed and used to transport saw logs,
pulpwood or tree-length wooden poles.
Vehicle length Special permits

See MVC 257.719 for complete definition Vehicles or loads which exceed legal dimensions or
The total distance from the front of a vehicle, or weight require a special permit when operating on
combination of vehicles, to the rear of the vehicle or Michigan roads. For permit information, contact the
combination of vehicles, including the distance of Michigan Department of Transportation, county road
any load being transported on the vehicle. commissions or local jurisdictions.
23
Vehicle and Load Size

Vehicle Length Specialty equipment
MVC 257.719
Single vehicle
With or without load (excluding impact absorbing
bumpers) 40 feet - all routes.
A stinger steer combination designed and used
Tractor, semitrailer exclusively to transport assembled motor vehicles
Tractor, semitrailer combinations have no overall or bodies, recreational vehicles or boats shall not
length restrictions, provided the trailer length does exceed 75 feet.
not exceed 50 feet.
On designated routes only, tractor and semitrailer

combinations have no overall length restrictions,
provided the trailer does not exceed 53 feet in length
For tractor/trailer combinations where the
and has no more than three axles.
TRACTOR is not designed to transport assembled
vehicles:
Semitrailers longer than 50 feet shall have a wheel
• On designated highways (gold and green) . . . no
base of not less than 37 feet and not more than 41 feet,
overall length; trailer (including overhang) not to
measured from the kingpin coupling to the center of exceed 53 feet in length;
the rear axle or the center of the rear axle assembly.
NOTE: ALL tractor/trailer combinations (with or
Truck and trailer without a tractor designed to transport assembled
vehicles or bodies) are limited to 65 feet on non-
designated highways. (Does not include stinger
steer combinations)
Vehicle height
MVC 257.719 & MVC 257.719a
 A vehicle unloaded or with a load (except mobile
 59 feet overall length on nondesignated routes homes) shall not exceed a height of 13 feet, 6
 65 feet overall length on designated routes inches without special permit.
 70 feet (including the load) on designated routes  Mobile homes may not exceed a height of 12 feet,
if the vehicles are designed and used to transport 6 inches without special permit.
saw logs, pulpwood or tree length wooden poles.
Tractors, semitrailer and trailer or Vehicle width

MVC 257.717
two semitrailers
 Nondesignated routes - 59 feet overall length  The total width of a trailer, semi-trailer, bus or
motor home shall not exceed 102 inches.
 Designated routes - no overall length if:
 The total outside width of all other vehicles
 The length of each trailer or semitrailer does
shall not exceed 96 inches, except on designated
not exceed 28.5 feet in length or
highways where 102 inches is allowed.
 The overall length of the trailers in combina-
 The total outside width of the load of a vehicle
tion does not exceed 58 feet, measured from
hauling concrete pipe, agricultural products or
the front of the first trailer to the rear of the
unprocessed logs, pulpwood or wood bolts shall
second trailer.
not exceed 108 inches.
24
Michigan Weight and Axle Load Limits

nderstanding the axle and weight load limits can be very confusing. To better help you, the following is
U a simple guide for maximum axle load limits that is not intended for legal purposes. You are responsible
for familiarity with the complete weight laws found in the Michigan Vehicle Code, Section 257.722. Should
you have questions about weight limits, please call our hotline at (800) 682-4682.
NOTE: No motor vehicle shall be operated with tires that carry a weight greater than that marked on
the side-wall of the tire. FMCSR 393.75
General Information Normal loading maximum general

Maximum load limits may depend on the follow- information
ing:
MVC 257.722
 What type of highway you are operating on (See
Maximum loads shall not exceed the number of
page 24 for highway types)
pounds in the following provisions:
 The number of axles and the distance (spacing)
 18,000 pounds on an axle with at least 9 feet of
between the axles or axle assemblies on which
spacing from any other axle
the vehicle or combination of vehicles is
NOTE: Weight cannot exceed 700 pounds per
operated (spacing is the distance between axles,
inch of the width of the tire (“width” means as
measured from the center of one axle to the
published by the manufacturer)
center of another axle)
 13,000 pounds per axle when axle spacing is less
 The gross vehicle weight of the vehicle or
than 9 feet between two axles but more than 3.5
combination of vehicles
feet
 Tire width (as published by the manufacturer).
 Axles less than 3.5 feet apart shall not exceed
Depending on the conditions above, your vehicle may
9,000 lbs. per axle.
be subject to the maximums found under the bridge
It is your responsibility to be aware of frost law
formula or the normal loading standards.
restrictions along with county and city weight
Bridge gross weight limits.
formula general information
The bridge formula applies to vehicles operating
on interstate highways and specially designated
highways which:
 Do not exceed 80,000 pounds gross weight
 Do not exceed the maximum allowed under the
formula.
See page 32.
25

Frost law restrictions County and city weight limits
When spring weight restrictions are in effect on Allowable axle weights on local roadways must
frost-restricted routes, axle loadings are reduced by be consistent with state law, but final weight
25 percent on rigid-based roads and 35 percent on determinations are the responsibility of the local
flexible-based roads. Most restricted state highways jurisdictions. The limitation of 700 lbs. per inch
and county roads reduce axle loading by 35 of tire width still applies. “Access” to/from state
percent. Speed limits on frost restricted routes are or federal highways on local roadways cannot be
reduced to 35 mph for every vehicle with a gross assumed. Local jurisdictions also apply width and
weight of 10,000 pounds or more. length limitations to their roadways and retain the
State frost law information, authority to issue or deny special permits. You
should contact the appropriate jurisdiction for
800-787-8960 specific information prior to movements upon
www.micountyroads.org local roadways.
Although these are legal weights, it is an equipment violation to exceed the manufacturer's displayed load rating
on any tire.
(1)
*
(2) 12,000 34,000 (for tandem) 34,000 (for tandem)
Example (1) On a combination of truck-tractor and semitrailer having not more than 5 axles, 2 consecutive
tandem axle assemblies shall be permitted on the designated highways at a gross permissible weight of
16,000 pounds per axle, if there is no other axle within 9 feet of any axle of the assembly. (This configuration
is allowable on interstates and designated highways in Michigan.) If an additional axle were to be added
between the two tandems, only one of the tandems (drives or trailer) would be allowed 16,000 pounds per
axle. The other tandem would be limited to 13,000 pounds per axle.
*Steering axle weights can be a maximum of 18,000 lbs. (11,700 frost restriction) if equipped with high
pressure pneumatic or balloon tires.
Example (2) is the bridge formula for interstate highways when the gross vehicle weight is 80,000 pounds
or less and the distance between the center of the two tandem assemblies is 36 feet or more. State and local
authorities may allow these weights on highways or sections of highways under their jurisdictions.
When determining your allowable axle weight shown on pages 27-31, under Michigan law you must also be
in compliance with federal regulations which prohibit you from exceeding your tire ratings. Although Michi-
gan law allows for these weights, your tire rating may restrictr you to a lower weight.
26

Examples of normal load maximums; frost law restrictions shown are at the 35 percent reduction.
Steering axle weights

shown here are based
on 11:00 series tires.
Steering axle weights can be

a maximum of 18,000 lbs.
(11,700 frost restriction) if
equipped with high pressure
pneumatic or balloon tires.
Although these are legal weights, it is an equipment violation to exceed the manufacturer's displayed load rating on any
tire.
27

Steering axle weights

Steering axle weights can be

tire.
28

Steering axle weights Steering axle weights can be

shown here are based a maximum of 18,000 lbs.
tire.
29


shown here are based a maximum of 18,000 lbs.
tire.
30


(Less than 42”)
tire.
31
Bridge Gross Weight Formula

he Bridge Gross Weight Formula was developed to prevent stress to highway bridges caused by heavy
T trucks. The formula provides a standard to control the spacing of truck axles and weight on those axles.
Vehicles with a gross weight of 80,000 pounds or less may be eligible for increased weights using the Bridge
Gross Weight Formula. Vehicles exceeding a gross weight of 80,000 pounds or the gross weight calculated
using the Bridge Weight Formula are not eligible for bridge weights.
The Bridge Gross Weight Formula allows:

• 20,000 pounds for a single axle
• 34,000 pounds for a tandem axle group
The weight of other axle groups would be determined using the Bridge Gross Weight Formula.
W = The maximum weight in pounds that can be carried on

a group of two or more axles to the nearest 500 pounds
LN
W = 500 N-1 + 12N + 36 L = The spacing in feet between the outer axles of any two
or more consecutive axles
N = The number of axles being considered
A Bridge Gross Weight Formula chart is provided on page 36 of the Truck Driver’s Guidebook. The chart is an
easy means of determining permissible gross loads for vehicles in regular operation.
When using the formula chart:
Measure the axle spacing from first to last axle in the combination.
Use the bridge gross weight formula chart to determine the gross vehicle weight.
This is the maximum allowable gross vehicle weight.
Measure the axle group spacing.
Use the bridge gross weight formula to determine axle group weights.
This is the maximum allowable gross vehicle weight for the group.
All groups must be legal.
32
This vehicle has a bridge of 14’. Using the B/F chart, check the distance of 14’ for two axles, finding a gross
weight of 40,000 lbs. If this vehicle exceeds the formula weight of 40,000 lbs., the vehicle does not qualify
for the bridge formula so only designated weights would apply.
This vehicle has a bridge of 24’ between axles 1 and 3. Using the B/F chart, this vehicle would be allowed a
gross weight of 54,000 lbs. If this vehicle exceeds the B/F gross weight of 54,000 lbs., the vehicle does not
qualify for the bridge formula so only designated weights would apply.
This vehicle has a bridge of 21’ between axles 1 and 4. Using the B/F chart, this vehicle would be allowed a
gross weight of 56,000 lbs. If this vehicle exceeds the B/F gross weight of 56,000 lbs., the vehicle does not
qualify for the bridge formula so only designated weights would apply. The group bridge between axles 2
and 4 is 8’. Using the B/F chart, 8’ would give this group 34,000 lbs. when designated loading is 13,000 lbs.
per axle or 39,000 lbs. for the group — AXLE WEIGHTS WILL NOT BE LOWERED ANY LESS THAN
DESIGNATED WEIGHTS. If the bridge between axles 2 and 4 was 9’, the group weight would be
42,500 lbs.
*** The bridge formula allows up to 20,000 lbs. per single axle, if the vehicle is equipped with large
enough tires. Steering axle weights will vary depending on the gross weight of the vehicle.
33
This combination has a bridge of 34’ between axles 1 and 3. Using the B/F chart, this combination would
be allowed a gross weight of 60,000 lbs. If this combination exceeds the B/F gross of 60,000 lbs., the
combination would not qualify for bridge formula weights so only designated weights would apply (up to
18,000 lbs. on a single axle with proper tire size).
This combination has a bridge of 48’ between axles 1 and 4. Using the B/F chart, this combination would be
allowed a gross weight of 74,000 lbs. If the combination exceeds the B/F gross of 74,000 lbs., it would not
qualify for bridge formula weights so only designated weights would apply (up to
18,000 lbs. on a single axle/16,000 lbs. for each axle on the tandem, with proper tire sizes).
This combination has a bridge of 68’ between axles 1 and 5. Using the B/F chart, this combination would
be allowed a gross weight of 80,000 lbs. because the B/F only allows vehicles up to 80,000 lbs. If this
combination does not exceed 80,000 lbs., single axles will be allowed 20,000 lbs. each. It should be noted that
designated loading for this combination would exceed the B/F weights with up to 18,000 lbs. per single axle
(with proper tire sizes) for a possible gross weight of 86,000 lbs. (14,000 lbs. on the steering axle).
34
This 5 axle tandem tandem has an outer bridge of 46’ (distance between axles 1 and 5). Using the B/F, this
tandem tandem would be allowed a gross weight of 76,500 lbs. If this combination exceeds the gross weight of
76,500 lbs., it would be in violation. Also, the inner bridge on this vehicle is 36’ (distance between axles 2 and
5). Using the B/F, this group of axles would be allowed a group weight of 66,000 lbs. If this group exceeds the
weight of 66,000 lbs., the group would be in violation.
This 5 axle tandem tandem has an outer bridge of 54’ (distance between axles 1 and 5). Using the
B/F, this tandem tandem would be allowed 81,500 lbs. But, the B/F only allows vehicles up to a gross weight
of 80,000 lbs. If this 5 axle tandem tandem exceeds 80,000 lbs. gross weight, it would be in violation. The
inner bridge on this tandem tandem is 42’ (distance between axles 2 and 5). Using the B/F, this group of axles
would be allowed a group weight of 70,000 lbs. However, if the group weight exceeds 68,000 lbs., it would
be in violation because each tandem is only allowed 34,000 lbs.
35
PERMISSIBLE GROSS LOADS FOR VEHICLES IN REGULAR OPERATION1
Based on weight formula LN

W = 500 N-1 + 12N + 36
Distance in feet (L)

between the extremes
of any group of 2 or
Maximum load in pounds carried on any group of 2 or more consecutive axles
more consecutive axles
N= 2 AXLES 3 AXLES 4 AXLES 5 AXLES 6 AXLES 7 AXLES 8 AXLES 9 AXLES
4 ………………………………. 34,000 ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
5 ………………………………. 34,000 ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
6 ………………………………. 34,000 ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
7 ………………………………. 34,000 ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
8 & less…………………….. 34,000 34,000 ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
more than 8….………………… 38,000 42,000 ………….. ………….. ………….. …………... ………….. …………...
9 ………………………………. 39,000 42,500 ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
10 ………………………………. 40,000 43,500 ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
11 ………………………………. ………….. 44,000 ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
12 ………………………………. ………….. 45,000 50,000 ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
13 ………………………………. ………….. 45,500 50,500 ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
14 ………………………………. ………….. 46,500 51,500 ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
15 ………………………………. ………….. 47,000 52,000 ………….. ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
16 ………………………………. ………….. 48,000 52,500 58,000 ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
17 ………………………………. ………….. 48,500 53,500 58,500 ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
18 ………………………………. ………….. 49,500 54,000 59,000 ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
19 ………………………………. ………….. 50,000 54,500 60,000 ………….. ………….. ………….. …………..
20 ………………………………. ………….. 51,000 55,500 60,500 66,000 ………….. ………….. …………..
21 ………………………………. ………….. 51,500 56,000 61,000 66,500 ………….. ………….. …………..
22 ………………………………. ………….. 52,500 56,500 61,500 67,000 ………….. ………….. …………..
23 ………………………………. ………….. 53,000 57,500 62,500 68,000 ………….. ………….. …………..
24 ………………………………. ………….. 54,000 58,000 63,000 68,500 74,000 ………….. …………..
25 ………………………………. ………….. 54,500 58,500 63,500 69,000 74,500 ………….. …………..
26 ………………………………. ………….. 55,500 59,500 64,000 69,500 75,000 ………….. …………..
27 ………………………………. ………….. 56,000 60,000 65,000 70,000 75,500 ………….. …………..
28 ………………………………. ………….. 57,000 60,500 65,500 71,000 76,500 82,000 …………..
29 ………………………………. ………….. 57,500 61,500 66,000 71,500 77,000 82,500 …………..
30 ………………………………. ………….. 58,500 62,000 66,500 72,000 77,500 83,000 …………..
31 ………………………………. ………….. 59,000 62,500 67,500 72,500 78,000 83,500 …………..
32 ………………………………. ………….. 60,000 63,500 68,000 73,000 78,500 84,500 90,000
33 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 64,000 68,500 74,000 79,000 85,000 90,500
34 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 64,500 69,000 74,500 80,000 85,500 91,000
35 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 65,500 70,000 75,000 80,500 86,000 91,500
36 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 66,000 70,500 75,500 81,000 86,500 92,000
37 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 66,500 71,000 76,000 81,500 87,000 93,000
38 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 67,500 71,500 77,000 82,000 87,500 93,500
39 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 68,000 72,500 77,500 82,500 88,500 94,000
40 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 68,500 73,000 78,000 83,500 89,000 94,500
41 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 69,500 73,500 78,500 84,000 89,500 95,000
42 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 70,000 74,000 79,000 84,500 90,000 95,500
43 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 70,500 75,000 80,000 85,000 90,500 96,000
44 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 71,500 75,500 80,500 85,500 91,000 96,500
45 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 72,000 76,000 81,000 86,000 91,500 97,500
46 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 72,500 76,500 81,500 87,000 92,500 98,000
47 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 73,500 77,500 82,000 87,500 93,000 98,500
48 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 74,000 78,000 83,000 88,000 93,500 99,000
49 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 74,500 78,500 83,500 88,500 94,000 99,500
50 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 75,500 79,000 84,000 89,000 94,500 100,000
51 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 76,000 80,000 84,500 89.500 95,000 100,500
52 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 76,500 80,500 85,000 90,500 95,500 101,000
53 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 77,500 81,000 86,000 91,000 96,500 102,000
54 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 78,000 81,500 86,500 91,500 97,000 102,500
55 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 78,500 82,500 87,000 92,000 97,500 103,000
56 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. 79,500 83,000 87,500 92,500 98,000 103,500
}
57 ………………………………. Interstate Gross
………….. ………….. 80,000 83,500 88,000 93,000 98,500 104,000
58 ………………………………. Weight Limit
………….. ………….. ………….. 84,000 89,000 94,000 99,000 104,500
59 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. ………….. 85,000 89,500 94,500 99,500 105,000
60 ………………………………. ………….. ………….. ………….. 85,500 90,000 95,000 100,500 105,500
1
The permissible loads are computed to the nearest 500 pounds as required by statute.
2
The following loaded vehicles must not operate over H15-44 bridges: 3-S2 (5-axle) with wheelbase less than 38 feet; 2-S1-2 (5 axle) with wheelbase less than 45
feet; 3-3 (6 axle) with wheelbase less than 45 feet; and 7- 8- and 9-axle vehicles regardless of wheelbase.
36
Traffic Safety Division - Michigan State Police

HEADQUARTERS
333 South Grand Avenue, P.O. Box 30634
Lansing, Michigan, 48913-0635
Phone: 517-241-0506 - FAX: 517-241-0501
Hazardous Materials & Investigations Unit 517-241-0583
District Address & Telephone Weigh Stations Highway Location Telephone
First District HQ Cambridge US-12/M-50 Lenawee 517-467-2278

1 7119 N. Canal Rd.
Lansing, MI 48913 Fowlerville EB/WB I-96 Livingston 517-521-3479
517-322-5572
Grass Lake EB/WB I-94 Jackson 517-522-4440
Second District HQ Pontiac NB/SB I-75 Oakland 248-335-4509

42145 W. Seven Mile Rd.
Northville, MI 48167
2 248-380-1070
Monroe State Police Post Monroe NB/SB I-75 Monroe 734-848-5715

300 Jones Ave.
Monroe, MI 48161
734-384-5315
Third District HQ
3 411-B East Genesee Ave. None
Saginaw, MI 48607
989-758-1909
Coldwater NB I-69 Branch 517-278-4159
Fifth District HQ
5 108 W. Michigan Ave.
New Buffalo EB & WB I-94 Berrien 269-469-2910
Paw Paw, MI 49079
269-429-1111
Sixth District HQ Ionia EB/WB I-96 Ionia 517-647-6512

588 Three Mile Rd.
6 Grand Rapids, MI 49544
616-647-0810
Seventh District HQ
810 S. Otsego Avenue
Suite 101 None
Gaylord, MI 49735-8321
7&8 989-732-7127
Eighth District HQ Powers US-2/US-41 Menominee 906-497-5511

1504 West Washington St.
Suite A Mackinac Bridge NB/SB I-75 Mackinac 906-643-7600,
Marquette, MI 49855 ext. 333
(Contact Gaylord Office)
989-732-9420 St. Ignace Post 906-643-8383
37

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What are the locations and contact information for the Michigan Center for Truck Safety?

What are the locations and contact information for the Michigan Center for Truck Safety?

What are some of the requirements that carriers and drivers must meet according to the regulations mentioned?

What are some of the requirements that carriers and drivers must meet according to the regulations mentioned?

Due to frequent changes in federal and state regulations, the Michigan Center for Truck Safety cannot ensure

the accuracy of the material

Truck Driver’s Guidebook

Michigan Center for Truck Safety Locations

Revised November, 2010

1935 PA59; 20,000 copies

Useful Web Sites.................................................................................................. 2

Getting and Displaying a DOT Number.............................................................. 7

CSA 2010 Information.......................................................................................... 7

Vehicle Registration & Motor Fuel Tax............................................................... 8

Driver Qualifications and Investigations............................................................ 9

Driver’s Hours of Service............................................................................. 10-11

Inspections, Repair and Maintenance.............................................................. 12

Michigan Commercial Driver License (CDL).................................................... 17

Drug and Alcohol Testing.................................................................................. 18

Michigan Alcohol Law........................................................................................ 19

Vehicle and Load Size...................................................................................23-24

Michigan Weight and Axle Load Limits.......................................................25-31

Bridge Gross Weight Formula......................................................................32-35

Federal Bridge Formula Chart........................................................................... 36

Traffic Safety Division and Weigh Stations...................................................... 37

Driver Record Subscription Service To order driver motor vehicle reports:

Useful Web Sites

same direction, except to pass. All commercial vehicles registered in Michigan

Agricultural operation Commercial vehicle

Commercial motor vehicle driver Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

Medical waivers Private motor carrier of passengers

Getting and Displaying a DOT Number

CSA 2010 Information

Vehicle Registration & Motor Fuel Tax

Driver Qualification and Investigation

A qualified driver must: Driver investigation history file

Driver’s Hours of Service

Applicability Maximum driving & duty rules

Driver’s Hours of Service

Inspection, Repair & Maintenance

Required driver inspections Roadside inspection

Measurements are to be made while vehicles are unloaded.

Quick Check: Measure 5 inches of vertical for every 12 inches of horizontal.

Breakaway and emergency braking

Full trailers and dolly converters Driveaway-towaway operations

NOTE: Refer to the FMCSR for complete details concerning

Michigan Commercial Driver License (CDL)

What type of CDL do I need?

Group A To operate a vehicle which is:

What endorsements do I need on my CDL in Michigan?

T DOUBLE or TRIPLE TRAILERS (Triple-trailer combinations are not permitted in

Drug and Alcohol Testing

ESTABLISHING A DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING PROGRAM

Michigan Center for Truck Safety 800-682-4682

Michigan Alcohol Laws

V iolations of Michigan’s drunk driving laws af-

NEED A SPEAKER FOR YOUR MEETING?

Michigan Center for Truck Safety 800-682-4682

Hazardous Materials Security Plan