MCSAP

Frequently asked questions concerning the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program and commercial motor vehicles.

What vehicles must stop at weigh stations?

If your vehicle meets the definition of a commercial motor vehicle (over 10,000 lbs., buses, limousines, or any size vehicle hauling haz-mat that requires placards), you must stop at the weigh station if it is open. While some of the regulatory signs read all “TRUCKS” must stop, the weigh stations are designed to weigh and inspect

What vehicles must stop at weigh stations?2022-05-25T16:51:18-05:00

Do I need to display a USDOT number?

Maybe. If your vehicle meets the definition of a commercial motor vehicle and does not qualify for any of the exceptions, the USDOT number and full legal name or trade name must be displayed, as registered with the FMCSA. The number and name must appear on both sides of the power unit in letters that

Do I need to display a USDOT number?2025-01-29T14:38:51-06:00

Can I pull a boat behind my RV (multiple trailers) with my truck?

Yes.The first trailer must be equipped with an anti-sway mechanism (unless it’s a fifth wheel trailer), and the second trailer must have service brakes acting on at least one axle of the trailer.  Every motor vehicle and every combination of vehicles shall have a service braking system which will stop such vehicle or combination within

Can I pull a boat behind my RV (multiple trailers) with my truck?2022-05-25T16:51:18-05:00

Do unladen (empty) vehicles have to stop at weigh stations?

Yes.The weigh stations are used for inspecting vehicles also, not just weighing.  If the vehicle meets the definition of a commercial motor vehicle, and the weigh station is open, it must stop.

Do unladen (empty) vehicles have to stop at weigh stations?2022-05-25T16:51:18-05:00

How do I obtain a USDOT number?

A USDOT number must be obtained from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The process will take about 30 minutes and is completed on-line, free of charge. Visit: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration

How do I obtain a USDOT number?2022-10-31T15:22:59-05:00

Do all haz-mat loads have to stop at weigh stations?

You must stop like all other regulated vehiclesUnless your vehicle is equipped with PrePass or DriveWyze services then you are not required to stop if you receive the bypass from the device. There is no specific requirement for haz-mat loads to stop.

Do all haz-mat loads have to stop at weigh stations?2022-05-25T16:51:18-05:00

Are there any exceptions to needing a USDOT number?

Yes. Limited exceptions are found in 49 CFR §390.3T, such as for the occasional transportation of personal property (e.g., renting a truck to move your family and personal belongings).

Are there any exceptions to needing a USDOT number?2025-01-29T14:39:30-06:00

Are there any exceptions to obtaining a USDOT number for intrastate commerce (wholly within Kansas)?

YesIn addition to the exceptions found in 49 CFR §390.3T for interstate commerce, KSA 66-1,129(c)(1) – (8) provides exceptions to the requirement for some intrastate operations.  One of the most common exceptions is for private carriers, operating wholly within Kansas, between 10,001 and 26,000 lbs., with Kansas registration on the power unit.  Such vehicles are

Are there any exceptions to obtaining a USDOT number for intrastate commerce (wholly within Kansas)?2022-05-25T16:51:18-05:00

When do I need a commercial driver’s license (CDL)

If you drive a vehicle or vehicles that meets the following definition, a CDL is required (49 CFR §383.5):Commercial motor vehicle (CMV) means a motor vehicle or combination of motor vehicles used in commerce to transport passengers or property if the motor vehicle is a:Combination Vehicle (Group A) - having a gross combination weight rating

When do I need a commercial driver’s license (CDL)2022-05-25T16:51:18-05:00
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