Nebraska CDL Handbook

Commercial Driver License

Manual

(Supplement to the Nebraska Drivers Manual)

2005 CDL Testing System Version: July 2017 (December 2021)

Nebraska

CDL Driver’s Manual COPYRIGHT © 2005 AAMVA All Rights Reserved Safety Administration under Cooperative Agreement No. DTFH61-97-X- 00017. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the Author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

COPYRIGHT © 2005 AAMVA. All rights reserved

This material has been created for and provided to State Driver License Agencies (SDLAs) by AAMVA for the purpose of educating Driver License applicants (Commercial or Non-Commercial). Permission to reproduce, use, distribute or sell this material has been granted to SDLAs only. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system without express written permission from the author / publisher. Any unauthorized reprint, use, distribution or sale of this material is prohibited. This material is based upon work supported by the Federal Motor Carrier

STATEOFNEBRASKA

Pete Ricketts Governor OFFICEOFTHEGOVERNOR P.O. Box 94848 • Lincoln, Nebraska 68509-4848 Phone: (402) 471-2244 • pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov

Dear Fellow Nebraskans:

As a new or previous commercial motor vehicle operator, you are embarking on an exciting journey with many of you transporting important products around this great State and this nation. The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is available to assist you in taking your first step: obtaining your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Earning and retaining a CDL requires a great deal of knowledge and tremendous skill; it also comes with great responsibility. Being prepared to take the CDL written and skills test is important for the safety of all drivers. This handbook and information contained on the DMV website at www.dmv.nebraska.gov under “Driver Licensing Services”are helpful tools. You will find practice written tests, three training videos on pre-trip vehicle inspections, information about scheduling your skills test, and CDL medical certification requirements among other items. I encourage you to take advantage of these resources to enhance your licensing process.

Routinely reviewing the information in this handbook, following the rules of the road, and being ever mindful of your sense of responsibility while driving can help protect you, your family, your friends, and other highway users.

Safe Travels,

Pete Ricketts Governor

P.S. Don’t forget to buckle up!

An Equal Opportunity Employer 2.Recreational vehicles. 3.Emergency vehicles operated by a public or volunteer fire department. 4.Military vehicles driven by active-duty military personnel. 5.Vehicles driven by members of the military reserves, other than military technicians. 6.Vehicles driven by active-duty United States Coast Guard personnel. 7.Vehicles driven by members of the National Guard on active-duty including:

• a) personnel on full-time National Guard duty;
• b) personnel on part-time National Guard training; and
• c) National Guard Military Technicians required to wear military uniforms. GENERAL INFORMATION ON OBTAINING A CDL:

• • Applicants applying for Commercial Learner’s Permits (CLPs) and Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) are required to provide proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status (see below).
• • In order to take skills tests for a CDL, drivers must first have a CLP and hold it for at least 14 days.
• • If a CLP expires and all three segments (pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic controls skills and road test) of the skills tests have not been passed, any skills tests previously passed are invalid and ALL skills testing must be retaken.
• • Skills testing must be completed sequentially in this order: pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic controls skills and road test.
• • CLPs will have a class and may have endorsements and restrictions. CLPs require all applicable written tests be passed as a condition of issuance.
• • E – No Manual Transmission equipped CMV. If you complete skills testing in a vehicle that has an automatic transmission or in which the driver is not responsible for 100% of the shifting, an E restriction will be placed on the CDL. Current CDL holders who do not have this restriction will not receive it if upgrading their license in a vehicle with an automatic transmission. L – No Air Brake equipped CMV. If you complete skills testing in a vehicle that doesn't have air brakes, an L restriction will be placed on the CDL. Current CDL holders who do not have this restriction will not receive it if upgrading their license in a vehicle without air brakes.
• • Z – No Full Air Brake equipped CMV. This is commonly referred to as Air over Hydraulic systems. Any CMV tested that has elements of the air brake system, but is not the standard systems used in most CMV’s with full air brake system will get the Z CDL restriction. Current CDL holders who do not have this restriction will not receive it if upgrading their license in a vehicle with this type of braking system. APPLYING FOR A NE COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSE (CDL) OR COMMERCIAL LEARNER’S PERMIT (CLP)? When applying for a NE CDL or CLP, you must present documentation of: 1.Valid U.S. Citizenship or Proof of Lawful Status and U.S. Based Identity containing Name and Date of Birth. 2.Current Principal Address in Nebraska 3.Applicants must disclose their valid social security number.
• • All commercial motor vehicle applicants must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Status on or after July 8, 2015. Once U.S. citizenship has been verified, proof need not be presented again. Proof of lawful status is required to be presented upon the initial visit to a driver licensing office and all subsequent visits. VEHICLES EXEMPT FROM NEEDING A COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSE (CDL): 1.Covered farm vehicles.
• • Proof of identification must be presented at each visit. The digital image (photo) retained by DMV cannot be used as proof of identification. Nebraska Specifics - Page 1
• • Faxed or photocopied documents will NOT be accepted.
• • Documents are subject to departmental review and approval. Additional information may be required.
• • In some cases, document approval may not occur on the same day and may require an additional visit to the driver licensing office.
• • Any document which states “NOT TO BE USED FOR PROOF OF IDENTIFICATION” will not be accepted for identity verification purposes.
• • The Department may retain copies of any document presented.

• 1.  Valid U.S. Citizenship or Proof of Lawful Status and U.S. Based Identity Present ONEU.S. based documentto establish citizenship or proof of lawful status and ONEU.S. based document to prove identity. Note: #1 - #9 documents can be used to meet requirements for both purposes. Document #10 can be used for proof of U.S. based identity only. In the event of a name change, you must present one document (certified marriage license, certified divorce decree or court order) that links your new name to the name that currently exists on your license or permit. Lawful Status applicants may use a petition of Name Change. 1. A certified birth certificate issued by a State Government Office. Individuals presenting city or county birth certificates may be asked to provide additional identification documents. Hospital issued birth certificates cannot be accepted nor can Puerto Rican birth certificates issued prior to September 30, 2010. 2. A valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card. 3. Certificate of Naturalization, Form N-550 or Form N-570. 4. Certificate of Citizenship, Form N-560 or Form N-451. 5. Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) issued by the U.S. Department of State, Form FS-240, DS- 1350 or FS-545. 6. A valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (I-551). 7. A valid, unexpired ADIT stamp “Processed for I-551, temporary evidence of lawful admission for permanent resident until ________” in a valid foreign passport. After June 28, 2004 printed statement “Upon Endorsement Serves as Temporary I-551 Evidencing Permanent Resident for 1 Year” in a valid foreign passport, providing the proper placement of an admission stamp. 8. A valid, unexpired Employment Authorization Card (I-766). 9. A valid, unexpired Record of Arrival and Departure in a valid foreign passport (I-94 or I-94A). If you have a current I-797 for any I-94 status, you may want to show this to help simplify the process. Visas, Form I-151, I-94W or I-94 Border Crosser will not be accepted. Proof of Identity Only: 10.A valid Real ID compliant Nebraska or out-of-state permit, operator’s license or State ID Card (must have Real ID indicator on it), as long as the document is not mutilated or altered.
• 2.  Principal Address Verification Present TWO documents with your Nebraska principal address listed. A P.O. Box will not be accepted as proof of principal address. Proof of principal address must be from two different issuing sources. 1. Account statement from a bank or other financial institution issued within the last 90 days. 2. Pay stub or earnings statement issued within the last 90 days with the name and address of the employer. 3. Federal, state or local government documents, issued within the last 90 days.

• • When possible, documents/information presented will be verified for authenticity before being accepted.
• • Documents must be certified with a raised seal or stamp. 4. Magazines issued within the last 90 days. Page 2 - Nebraska Specifics 6. Any correspondence, receipt, invoice dated within the last 90 days. 7. ValidNebraska vehicle registration. 8. Validlife, health, auto or home insurance policy or card. 9. Validreal estate tax statement or receipt. 10.Any validlicense (driver’s, nursing, law, teaching, hair, fishing, etc.). 11.Nebraska voter registration card. 12.Mortgage, lease or rental agreement. (Lease and rental agreements must include the landlord’s name and contact information.) 13.Nebraska DMV Renewal Notice.

• 14. Blank check or deposit slip. COMMERCIAL LEARNER’S PERMIT (CLP): A CLP is a permit which when carried with a Class O license authorizes an individual to operate a class of commercial motor vehicle when accompanied by a holder of a valid CDL for purposes of behind-the-wheel training. A Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) is valid for 180 days. The issuance of a CLP is a precondition to the initial issuance of a CDL. The issuance of a CLP is also a precondition to the upgrade of a CDL if the upgrade requires a skills test. An applicant shall successfully complete all applicable written tests for the class and endorsements of CLP applied for. A CLP may be renewed once before all applicable written tests must be retaken. CLP TESTING: NEW PERMIT NEW RESIDENT PERMIT RENEWAL CLP Vision Required Required Required Written Required Required Waived CLP Classes: A and B* CLP Endorsements: P – Passenger; S – School Bus – N-Tank Vehicle* CLP Restrictions: K – Intrastate only; L – Vehicles Without Air Brakes; P – no passengers; X – no cargo in tank vehicle; V – Medical Variance; M – No Class A Passenger Vehicle; N – No Class A or B Passenger Vehicle* *See descriptions of Commercial Motor Vehicle Classes, Endorsements and Restrictions below. COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSE (CDL): A CDL authorizes the person to whom it is issued to operate a class of commercial motor vehicle or any motor vehicle, except a motorcycle, on highways. CLASSES OF COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLES: A–Combination of vehicles with Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds. 5. Any envelope, box or postcard that has been sent indicating a postmark or stamped date within the last 90 days. B–Single vehicle with GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds. Nebraska Specifics - Page 3 Any holder of a valid CDL is automatically licensed to drive a Class “O” vehicle (any non-CDL vehicle, excluding motorcycles). Any holder of a Class “A” CDL is automatically licensed to drive a Class “B” and Class “C” commercial vehicle, if the appropriate endorsement(s) appears on the license. Any holder of a Class “B” CDL is automatically licensed to drive a Class “C” commercial vehicle, if the appropriate endorsement(s) appears on the license. CDL ENDORSEMENTS: CDL RESTRICTIONS: H– Hazardous Materials E– No Manual Transmission N– Tank Vehicle I

• – Impaired Intrastate Only P– Passenger K– Intrastate Only S– School Bus L– Vehicles Without Air Brakes T– Doubles/Triple Trailers M– Except Class A Bus X– Combination Tank Vehicle and Hazardous Materials N– Except Class A and B Bus O– Except Tractor Trailer V–Medical Variance required Z– No Full Air Brakes MINIMUM AGE: Class A, B or C – 21 (Interstate), 18 (Intrastate) EXPIRATION: Licenses issued to individuals under the age of 21 expire on the license holder’s 21st birthday. Licenses issued to individuals 21 or older expire on the license holder’s birthday in the fifth year after issuance. Licenses with hazardous materials endorsement expire when the security threat assessment expires. For applicants surrendering an out-of-state license with the hazardous materials endorsement on it, the renewal period established in the preceding state shall be the expiration of the Nebraska license. TESTING: NEW LICENSE NEW RESIDENT RENEWAL LICENSE Vision Required Required Required Written Waived with Valid CLP May Be Waived* May Be Waived** Skills Required MUST HAVE Examiner’s Examiner’s VALID CLP Discretion*** Discretion*** ***A new resident surrendering a valid out-of-state CDL will not be required to take any CDL knowledge tests or skills tests previously passed (except hazardous materials written test). ***Nebraska residents renewing their CDL (up to one year expired) will not be required to take any CDL knowledge tests previously passed (except hazardous materials). ***Skills tests must be taken with a vehicle representative of the class of license the applicant is applying for. Drivers must have a valid CLP and hold for a minimum of 14 days prior to taking CDL skills tests. At least one-day waiting is required to retest when written or skills tests are failed. Audio versions of the written tests (except hazardous materials) are available at all driver licensing offices throughout the state. C–Single vehicle less than 26,001 pounds GVWR, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR, comprising of vehicles required to be placarded for hazardous materials or any bus designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver. Page 4 - Nebraska Specifics ELDT is a new federal requirement that goes into effect on February 7, 2022. Any driver who will be taking a skills test for a new CDL, taking a skills test to upgrade their CDL (including adding the P and/or S endorsements) or taking the hazardous materials (hazmat) knowledge test for the first time will be required to first complete ELDT. ELDT is not administered by the State of Nebraska DMV. It is a federal program. Federal regulations require states to verify that an entry-level driver has completed the required training before allowing the driver to proceed with testing. When a driver calls the Nebraska DMV CDL skills appointment line or a third party examiner to set up a skills appointment, the employee will check the driver’s record to see if they are ‘grandfathered’ from ELDT requirements. If they aren’t, the employee will query the Training Provider Registry (TPR). If ELDT requirements are verified, the DMV employee will schedule the appointment. If the response is NO or the TPR system is down, the driver will not be able to schedule the appointment. ELDT is required for any driver who is trying to: • Obtain a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time. • Upgrade an existing Class B CDL to a Class A CDL. • Obtain a school bus (S), passenger (P), or hazardous materials (H) endorsement for the first time. ELDT requirements do not apply to individuals holding a valid CDL or an S, P, or H endorsement issued prior to February 7, 2022. You will need to provide the Nebraska DMV proof of previously holding the class and/or endorsement you are applying for to be ‘grandfathered’. For Nebraska drivers who have never previously held a hazmat endorsement and are taking the hazmat knowledge test for the first time, you are required to submit a request to the Nebraska DMV to have the TPR checked for proof of ELDT. Once a DMV employee has checked the TPR, the driver will be contacted via the e-mail address they provided to let them know if they are approved to go to a driver licensing office to take the hazmat knowledge test. To submit a request to have the Nebraska DMV check the TPR for proof of Hazmat ELDT, send your name and driver license number in an email to: DMV.HazTPRCheck@nebraska.gov CDL SKILLS TEST APPOINTMENT INFORMATION: CDL skills tests are administered by appointment only. When all appropriate CDL written tests are passed, the driver holds the appropriate CLP and if Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) can be verified (or if the driver meets the ELDT grandfathering requirements), a CDL skills test appointment may be scheduled by calling 402-471-7983. CDL skills tests are administered by appointment only. Applicants must hold a CLP for at least 14 days prior to their appointment. PRACTICE TESTS: A practice test for the General Knowledge written exam is available on the DMV website. Go to www.nebraska.gov/dmv/cdl-practice-exam/practice_test.cgi. Videos demonstrating a full pre-trip vehicle inspection are available on the DMV website. Go to www.dmv.nebraska.gov/cdl/pre-trip-vehicle-inspection. ENTRY LEVEL DRIVER TRAINING (ELDT): Nebraska Specifics - Page 5 All individuals applying for or holding a Nebraska Commercial Driver’s License are required to certify to the DMV what type of operation they engage in. If certifying as Category A: Interstate – Non-Excepted, drivers are required to provide the DMV with a current copy of their medical examiner’s certificate (card – not long form) and keep current with the DMV. Medical examiner’s certificates (cards – not long forms) should be sent to: Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles Driver Licensing Services P.O. Box 94726 Lincoln, NE 68509 402-471-3157 (faxed copies) dmv.exam-medcert@nebraska.gov (scanned copy) The following chart will assist in determining how to certify. CDL SELF CERTIFICATION CATEGORIES

All Category A: Interstate –Non-Excepteddrivers must have their medical examination performed by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. To find a certified medical examiner, go to the National Registry website at http://nationalregistry.fmcsa.dot.gov/. CERTIFICATION AND MEDICAL INFORMATION:

Page 6 - Nebraska Specifics Tank vehicle means any commercial motor vehicle that is designed to transport any liquid or gaseous materials within a tank or tanks that have an individual rated capacity of more than one hundred nineteen (119) gallons and an aggregate rated capacity of one thousand (1000) gallons or more and that are either permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or the chassis. A commercial motor vehicle transporting an empty storage container tank, not designed for transportation, with a rated capacity of one thousand (1000) gallons or more that is temporarily attached to a flatbed trailer is not considered a tank vehicle.

SECURITY THREAT ASSESSMENT PROCEDURES: Prior to the issuance of a Nebraska CDL with the hazardous materials endorsement, individuals are required to have a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security threat assessment completed. Refer to ELDT information above for hazardous materials endorsements requirements.

The security threat assessment procedures require individuals to pre-enroll and be fingerprinted. A fee will be charged. This process will be handled by a TSA third party agent – NOT THE DMV. The following procedures should be followed to have a security threat assessment completed:
Contact the TSA: https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/hazmat-endorsement or by phone toll-free at 1-855-347-8371. Their hours are 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. EST, Monday-Friday.
After completing pre-enrollment, access the following website to find a fingerprint collection location nearest you: https://universalenroll.dhs.gov/locator. This website will provide you fingerprint collection locations in Nebraska as well as other states.
The DMV will be notified by TSA when a “Determination of No Security Threat” is received. Upon receipt of that notification, individuals will be sent a letter informing them of such by the DMV. Individuals may then proceed to any driver licensing office and after meeting all DMV requirements, a CDL with the hazardous materials endorsement will be issued. The CDL will expire when the threat assessment expires.
Please remember that all questions related specifically to the security threat assessment should be directed to the TSA toll free number or the TSA website. RESTRICTED COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSE (RCDL): Any resident of this state who is a seasonal commercial motor vehicle operator for a farm-related or ranchrelated service industry may apply for a Restricted Commercial Driver’s License (RCDL). A RCDL authorizes the license holder to operate any Class B or Class C commercial motor vehicle. Any applicant for a RCDL must be 18 years of age or older and must have possessed a valid operator’s license or Provisional Operator’s Permit during the twelve-month period immediately preceding the date of application. Beginning January 1, 2022, the commercial motor vehicle operating privilege for the seasonal period of validity will appear on the back of the RCDL. The seasonal period of validity shall be valid for no more than 180 consecutive days in any twelve-month period. The applicant shall designate the seasonal period of validity when making application for the RCDL. The RCDL holder may change the seasonal period of validity annually by renewing or obtaining a replacement of the RCDL.

THIRD PARTY TESTERS: Third party testers are companies that are authorized to conduct the driving skills examination for the issuance of the CDL for a fee. These companies must follow all requirements outlined in title 247 NAC, Chapter 8, Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles Rules and Regulations Governing the Certification of Third-Party Testers and Third-Party Examiners for the Commercial Driver’s License. To view these rules and regulations and obtain a list of third party testers, go to www.dmv.nebraska.gov/cdl/third-party-testersor by contacting the DMV. Drivers must have a valid CLP and hold for a minimum of 14 days prior to taking a CDL skills test. Skills tests appointments by Third Party Testers must be made a minimum of two days in advance of testing. Applicants who are administered CDL skills tests at a third party tester location should be aware that they may be required to retakethe skills tests administered by driver licensing staff or at a later date as part of the DMV audit process. If you are asked to retake the skills tests by driver licensing staff and refuse, the issuance of your TANK VEHICLE DEFINITION:

Nebraska Specifics - Page 7 Third Party Testers that are training schools may administer the CDL skills tests to individuals who have taken training in Nebraska, but are to be licensed in another state.

APPLICATION FOR MILITARY SKILLS TESTS WAIVER: Service members who are currently licensed and who are or were within the past year (12 months) in a military position requiring the operation of a military motor vehicle equivalent to a commercial motor vehicle may use the CDL skills tests waiver form. This waiver allows a qualified service member to apply for a CDL without skills testing. CDL written test(s) cannot be waived. The application form is available on the DMV website or at any Driver Licensing Office. The transfer of School Bus (S) and/or Passenger (P) endorsements under this Waiver Program are prohibited.

To complete the process, scan and email the waiver todmv.cdlcompliance@nebraska.govA DMV representative will review the document and respond to you via email within three business days if your waiver is approved.You will then be given instruction to see a DMV examiner to apply for the CDL.

NON-DOMICILED CLPS AND CDLS: Non-domiciled CLPs and CDLs can be issued to individuals domiciled in a foreign jurisdiction (not Canada or Mexico) or individuals domiciled in a state that is prohibited from issuing CLPs or CDLs. For more information, please contact the Department of Motor Vehicles at 402-471-3861.

MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION: Information regarding: reciprocity, safety belt usage, and other licensing requirements can be found in the Nebraska Driver’s Manual. Please read it in conjunction with this manual. Persons living in or employed in Nebraska for 30 days or more must apply for a Nebraska license. Endorsement and disqualification information can be found on pages 1-1 through 1-5 of this manual. Audio versions of the written tests are available at all driver licensing offices throughout the state. You may request a replacement/renewal online (www.dmv.nebraska.gov) or any Driver Licensing Office.

You will need to present primary identification.
Applicants who haven’t previously provided proof of U.S. citizenship will need to provide proper documentation.
If you need to change or update your address, you will need to present two forms of address verification.

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the rules promulgated in 49 CFR Part 21, and 49 CFR Part 303, protects individuals, groups and organizations from discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin in all programs and activities. The policy of the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles is to ensure that no person or group of persons shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, including low income or limited English proficiency (LEP), be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity administered by the Department in accordance with Title VI. CDL may be denied. If you fail the CDL skills tests as part of the audit process or do not appear at the time of audit, your CDL may be subject to cancellation.

Page 8 - Nebraska Specifics

Nebraska Specifics ................................................................................... Page 1 thru 

Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 1-1

Driving Safely ................................................................................................................... 2-1

Transporting Cargo Safely ................................................................................... 3-1

Transporting Passengers Safely .................................................................... 4-1

Air Brakes ............................................................................................................................ 5-1

Combination Vehicles ............................................................................................... 6-1

Doubles and Triples ................................................................................................... 7-1

Tank Vehicles .................................................................................................................. 8-1

Hazardous Materials .................................................................................................. 9-1

School Bus ....................................................................................................................... 10-1

Vehicle Vehicle Inspection ................................................................................. 11-1

Basic Vehicle Control Skills Test .................................................................. 12-1

On-Road Driving ......................................................................................................... 13-1

Table of Contents

•Commercial Driver License Tests •Medical Requirements •Driver Disqualifications •Other Safety Rules •International Registration Program There is a federal requirement that each state have minimum standards for the licensing of commercial drivers.

This manual provides driver license testing information for drivers who wish to have a commercial driver license (CDL). This manual does NOT provide information on all the federal and state requirements needed before you can drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). You may have to contact your state driver licensing authority for additional information.

You must have a CDL to operate: Any single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. A combination vehicle with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds. A vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver). Any size vehicle which requires hazardous material placards or is carrying material listed as a select agent or toxin in 42 CFR part 73. Federal regulations through the Department of Homeland Security require a background check and fingerprinting for the Hazardous Materials endorsement. Contact your local department of driver licensing for more information.

(Your state may have additional definitions of CMVs.)

CDL Classifications The CDL vehicle classification included in the federal standard, together with the type of cargo to be transported, determine what type of CDL license and endorsement an applicant must apply for. There are three basic vehicle classes or groups: Class B Heavy Straight Vehicles. Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds falls in Group B, or any such vehicle towing another vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR. Class B includes straight trucks and large buses, including articulated buses. Safely driving these heavy vehicles requires considerably more knowledge and skill than driving the small trucks and buses found in Class C. Since they include the skills required to drive Class C vehicles, drivers who have qualified for a Class B license may also drive vehicles in Class C. Class C Small Vehicles. Any single vehicle with a GVWR less than 26,001 pounds falls in Group C, or any such vehicle towing another vehicle not in excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR. However, vehicles of this size are included in the CDL program only if they are: 1) Designed to carry 16 or more passengers including the driver, or (2) Used to transport hazardous materials in quantities requiring placarding under the Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR Part 172, Subpart F) or is carrying material listed as a select agent or toxin in 42 CFR part 73.

There are a great variety of vehicles in Class C. Some rather large Class C vehicles may require more skill and knowledge to operate than do the smaller ones. However, the licensing category is based principally on the type of cargo carried. Because of the seriousness of an accident involving hazardous material or human passengers, the safe operation of even the smaller vehicles in Class C requires special knowledge and the drivers of these vehicles must have a CDL.

STATE OPTIONS: Some states may include more drivers and vehicles in their CDL programs. For example, in some states, a CDL may be required for buses designed to carry fewer than 16 passengers. Going beyond the federal standard is acceptable and the state will need to decide which battery of tests applies to these drivers, or develop a new battery. Class A Combination Vehicles. Any combination of vehicles with gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds falls in Group A provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is more than 10,000 pounds. Most Class A vehicles are trucks such as truck-tractor/semi-trailer or truck and trailer combinations. However, tractor-trailer buses may be found in a few communities. Driving a Class A vehicle requires considerably more skill and knowledge than driving vehicles in Classes B and C. Since these skills include those required to drive a B and C vehicle, a driver who has a Class A license also may drive vehicles in Classes B and C.

INTRODUCTION

This Section Covers Endorsements All commercial drivers who drive certain types of vehicles or haul certain types of cargo must add endorsements to their CDL license and/or Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) to show that they have the specialized knowledge required for these operations. There are six kinds of CDL endorsements that may be required, depending on the vehicle or type of cargo. NOTE: The only endorsements that may be added to a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) are: - Passenger (P); - School bus (S); and - Tank vehicle (N). Double and Triple Trailers (T). Many drivers who are qualified to drive Class A vehicles may wish to pull double or triple trailers. Research shows that considerable additional knowledge and skill is necessary to safely pull double and triple trailers in various traffic conditions and driving environments. Consequently, adding the endorsement to the licenses of Class A drivers is necessary if they wish to pull double or triple trailers. A special knowledge examination on the problems associated with pulling multiple trailers must be passed. Tank Vehicle (N). Drivers ofany commercial motor vehicle that is designed to transport any liquid or gaseous materials within a tank or tanks having an individual rated capacity of more than 119 gallons and an aggregate rated capacity of 1,000 gallons or more that is either permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or the chassis must obtain this endorsement.Applies to Class A, B and C (only applicable to Class C if the vehicle is hauling hazardous materials) vehicles. Liquids in bulk cause driving control problems because the cargo is heavy, prone to shifting, and has a high center of gravity. These drivers must pass a special knowledge examination on the problems posed by large volume liquid cargos to add the endorsement to their CDL/CLP. Passengers (P). Drivers who wish to drive a vehicle having a design capacity to carry 16 or more people, including the driver, must add a passenger endorsement to their CDL/CLP. They must pass a special knowledge examination on safety considerations when transporting passengers and must pass skills tests in a passenger vehicle. The endorsement applies to applicants who wish to drive a bus in any class (A, B, or C). The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the US Department of Transportation require background checks on commercial drivers who are certified to transport hazardous materials. The background checks include a review of criminal, immigration and FBI records. If the driver is found to represent a security threat, TSA will notify the person and the state will deny issuance of an endorsement. Combination Hazardous Materials and Tank Vehicle (X). Drivers of tank vehicles who haul hazardous materials or waste in amounts requiring placards must add an X endorsement to their CDL, showing that they have passed the special knowledge examinations for both tank vehicles and hazardous materials. School Buses (S). Drivers who wish to drive a school bus, must add a school bus endorsement to their CDL/CLP. They must pass a special knowledge examination on safety considerations when transporting passengers in a school bus and must pass skills tests in a school bus. The endorsement applies to applicants who wish to drive a school bus in any class (A, B, or C). In addition to these six required endorsements, states may add special endorsements of their own as they see fit.

Restrictions Restrictions may be added to Commercial Driver Licenses/Permits based upon the type of vehicle and equipment that the driver uses for the Skills Test. There are ten standardized restriction codes. NOTE: If a CLP is issued with a Passenger (P) or a School Bus (S) endorsement, it must also contain a (P) – No passengers in a CMV bus restriction. If a CLP is issued with a Tanker (N) endorsement, it must also contain a (X) – No cargo in a CMV tank vehicle. Hazardous Materials (H). Any driver, regardless of the vehicle Class/Group (A, B, or C) who wishes to haul any material that has been designated as hazardous under 49 U.S.C. 5103 and is required to be placarded under subpart F of 49 CFR part 172; or any quantity of a material listed as a select agent or toxin 42 CFR Part 73 must add a hazardous materials endorsement to their CDL. S/he must pass a special written examination on how to recognize, handle, and transport hazardous materials. CDL Endorsements & Restrictions

(K) - Intrastate only: If an applicantcertifies their status as either Non-Excepted Intrastate or Excepted Intrastate, the state must indicate on the CDL, if issued, that person is restricted from operating a CMV in interstate commerce. States may impose this restriction for reasons other than those specified above. (L) - No Air brake equipped CMV: If an applicant does not take or fails the air brake component of the knowledge test, or performs the skills test in a vehicle not equipped with air brakes, the State must indicate on the CLP or CDL, if issued, that the person is restricted from operating a CMV equipped with any type of air brakes. For the purposes of the skills test and the restriction, air brakes include any braking system operating fully or partially on the air brake principle. (M) - No Class A passenger vehicle: If an applicant applying for a passenger endorsement performs the skills test in a passenger vehicle requiring a Group B CDL, the State must indicate on the CDL, if issued, that the person is restricted from operating a passenger vehicle requiring a Group A CDL. (N) - No Class A and B passenger vehicle: If an applicant applying for a passenger endorsement performs the skills test in a passenger vehicle requiring a Group C CDL, the State must indicate on the CDL, if issued, that the person is restricted from operating a passenger vehicle requiring a Group A or B CDL (O) - No tractor trailer CMV: If an applicant performs the skills test in a combination vehicle for a Group A CDL with the power unit and towed unit connected with a pintle hook or other non-fifth wheel connection, the State must indicate on the CDL, if issued, that the person is restricted from operating a tractor-trailer combination connected by a fifth wheel that requires a Group A CDL. An applicant who passes a skills test using a combination vehicle that is NOT a Truck Tractor Semi-Trailer combination, but is otherwise equipped with a fifth wheel, will be issued a CDL with an “O” restriction. A CLP holder with a S endorsement is prohibited from operating a school bus with passengers, other than Federal/State auditors and inspectors, test examiners, other trainees, and the CDL holder accompanying the CLP holder as prescribed by § CFR 383.25(a)(1) of this part. (V) - Medical Variance: If the State is notified according to § 383.73(o)(3) that the driver has been issued a medical variance, the State must indicate the existence of such a medical variance on the CDLIS driver record and the CDL document, if issued, using the restriction code ‘‘V’’ to indicate there is information about a medical variance on the CDLIS driver record. (X) - No cargo in CMV tank vehicle: A CLP holder with an N endorsement may only operate an empty tank vehicle and is prohibited from operating any tank vehicle that previously contained hazardous materials that has not been purged of any residue. (Z) - No full air brake equipped CMV: If an applicant performs the skills test in a vehicle equipped with air over hydraulic brakes, the State must indicate on the CDL, if issued, that the person is restricted from operating a CMV equipped with any braking system operating fully on the air brake principle. For the purposes of the skills test and the restriction, air over hydraulic brakes includes any braking system operating partially on the air brake and partially on the hydraulic brake principle. Any additional jurisdictional restrictions that apply to the CLP driving privilege.

To Get a CDL or CLP To get a CDL or CLP, you must pass knowledge and skills tests. This manual will help you pass the tests, however, it is not a substitute for a truck driver training class or program. Formal training is the most reliable way to learn the many special skills required for safely driving a large commercial vehicle and becoming a professional driver in the trucking industry. Figure 1.1 helps you determine if you need a CDL (E) - No manual transmission. If an applicant performs the skills test in a vehicle equipped with an automatic transmission, the State must indicate on the CDL, if issued, that the person is restricted from operating a CMV equipped with a manual transmission. For the purposes of the skills test and the restriction, an automatic transmission includes any transmission not operating fully on the gear shift and clutch principle. (P) - No passengers in CMV bus: A CLP holder with a P endorsement is prohibited from operating a CMV carrying passengers, other than Federal/State auditors and inspectors, test examiners, other trainees, and the CDL holder accompanying the CLP holder as prescribed by § CFR 383.25(a)(1) of this part.

Figure 1.1

NOTE: A bus may be Class A, B, or C depending on whether the GVWR is over 26,001 pounds or is a combination vehicle.

The general knowledge test, taken by all applicants. The passenger transport test, taken by all bus driver applicants. The air brakes test, which you must take if your vehicle has air brakes, including air over hydraulic brakes. The combination vehicles test, which is required if you want to drive combination vehicles.

| What Sections Should You Study? | | | | | | | | | |

| | | LICENSE TYPE | | | ENDORSEMENT | | | | |

| | | Class A | Class B | Class C | Hazardous Materials | Double / Triple | Tank Vehicles | Passenger | School Bus |

Sections to Study | | 1 | X | X | X | | | | | |

| | 2 | X | X | X | | X | X | X | |

| | 3 | X | X | X | | | | | |

| | 4 | | | | | | | X | |

| | 5* | X | X | X | | X | | | |

| | 6 | X | | | | X | X | | |

| | 7 | | | | | X | | | |

| | 8 | | | | | | X | | |

| | 9 | | | | X | | X | | |

| | 10 | | | | | | | | X |

| | 11 | X | X | X | | | | X | X |

| | 12 | X | X | X | | | | X | X |

| | 13 | X | X | X | | | | X | X |

*Study section 5 if you plan to operate vehicles equipped with air brakes. | | | | | | | | | | |

The hazardous materials test, required if you want to haul hazardous materials as defined in 49 CFR 383.5. In order to obtain this endorsement you are also required to pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check. The tank vehicle test, required if you want to haul any liquid or gaseous materials in a tank or tanks having an individual rated capacity of more than 119 gallons and an aggregate rated capacity of 1,000 gallons or more that is either permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or chassis The doubles/triples test, required if you want to pull double or triple trailers. The School Bus test, required if you want to drive a school bus.

1.1.2 – Skills Tests

If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can take the CDL skills test when you are eligible. The CDL Skills Test consists of three segments: Vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. You must take the segments in the order listed and must pass each one before moving to the next. You must take these tests in the type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed. Any vehicle that has components marked or labeled cannot be used for the CDL Skills Test. Vehicle Inspection. You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You will be asked to do a Vehicle inspection of your vehicle. You must point to/touch and name the item you are inspecting and explain to the examiner what you would inspect and why. Basic Vehicle Control. You will be tested on your skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to 1.1 – Commercial Driver License Tests

1.1.1 – Knowledge Tests

You will have to take one or more knowledge tests, depending on what class of license and what endorsements you need. The CDL knowledge tests include: move your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a defined area. These areas may be marked with traffic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The examiner will tell you how each control test is to be done.

On-road Test. You will be tested on your skill to safely drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations. The situations may include left and right turns, intersections, railroad crossings, curves, up and down grades, single or multi-lane roads, streets, or highways. The examiner will tell you where to drive.

Figure 1.2 details which sections of this manual you should study for each particular class of license and for each endorsement.

What Sections Should You Study? LICENSE TYPE ENDORSEMENT

Figure 1.2 – What to Study Starting January 30, 2012 and no later than January 30, 2014, if you are applying for a CDL Permit; or are renewing, upgrading, adding endorsements to a CDL; or transferring a CDL from another state, you are required to provide information to your State Driver’s License Agency (SDLA) regarding the type of commercial motor vehicle operation you drive in or expect to drive in with your CDL. Drivers operating in certain types of commerce will be required to submit a current medical examiner’s certificate and/or any medical variance documents that you have been issued (i.e. Vision, Skills Performance or Diabetic waivers, or other exemptions) to your SDLA to obtain a “certified” medical status as part of your driving record. You must contact your State Driver Licensing Agency (SDLA) to obtain information regarding the requirement for submitting these documents. If you are required to have a ”certified” medical status and fail to provide and keep up-to-date your medical examiner’s certificate you become ”not-certified” and may lose your CDL. For the purpose of complying with the new requirements for medical certification, it is important to know how you are using the CMV. The following information will help you decide how to self-certify:

1.2.1 – Interstate or Intrastate Commerce

Do you, or will you, use a CDL to operate a CMV in interstate or intrastate commerce?

Interstate commerce is when you drive a CMV: From one State to another State or a foreign country; Between two places within a State, but during part of the trip, the CMV crosses into another State or foreign country; or Between two places within a State, but the cargo or passengers are part of a trip that began or will end in another State or foreign country. Intrastate commerce is when you drive a CMV within a State and you do not meet any of the descriptions above for interstate commerce.

If you operate in both intrastate commerce and interstate commerce, you must choose interstate commerce. Once you decide whether you will operate in interstate commerce or intrastate commerce, you must decide whether you will operate (or expect to operate) in a non-excepted or excepted status. This decision will tell you to which of the four types of commerce you must self-certify.

Interstate Commerce:

You operate in excepted interstate commerce when you drive a CMV in interstate commerce only for the following excepted activities: To transport school children and/or school staff between home and school; As Federal, State or local government employees; To transport human corpses or sick or injured persons; Fire truck or rescue vehicle drivers during emergencies and other related activities; Primarily in the transportation of propane winter heating fuel when responding to an emergency condition requiring immediate response such as damage to a propane gas system after a storm or flooding; In Response to a pipeline emergency condition requiring immediate response such as a pipeline leak or rupture; In custom harvesting on a farm or to transport farm machinery and supplies used in the custom harvesting operation to and from a farm or to transport custom harvested crops to storage or market; Beekeeper in the seasonal transportation of bees; Controlled and operated by a farmer, but is not a combination vehicle (power unit and towed unit), and is used to transport agricultural products, farm machinery or farm supplies (no placardable hazardous materials) to and from a farm and within 150 air-miles of the farm; As a private motor carrier of passengers for non-business purposes; or To transport migrant workers. If you answered yes to one or more of the above activities as the only operation in which you drive, you operate in excepted interstate commerce and do not need a Federal medical examiner’s certificate. 1.2 – Medical Documentation Requirements 1.2.2 – Inter/Intrastate Commerce: Status Non-excepted or Excepted?

! Intrastate excepted: I certify that I operate or expect to operate entirely in intrastate commerce, that I am not subject to the medical requirements for my State; and that I am not required to obtain a medical examiner’s certificate. If you operate in both excepted interstate commerce and non-excepted interstate commerce, you must choose non-excepted interstate commerce to be qualified to operate in both types of interstate commerce. 1.3 - CDL Disqualifications

1.3.1 – General

You may not drive a commercial motor vehicle if you are disqualified for any reason.

1.3.2 – Alcohol, Leaving the Scene of an

Accident, and Commission of a Felony

It is illegal to operate a CMV if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .04% or more. If you operate a CMV, you shall be deemed to have given your consent to alcohol testing.

You will lose your CDL for at least one year for a first offense for:

Driving under the influence of alcohol as prescribed by State law. Driving while under the influence of a controlled substance. Driving a CMV if your blood alcohol concentration is .04% or higher. Refusing to undergo blood alcohol testing. Leaving the scene of an accident. Using a vehicle to commit a felony. Driving a CMV when the CDL is revoked, suspended or cancelled, or the driver is disqualified from operating a CMV. Causing a fatality through negligent operation of a CMV.

You will lose your CDL for at least three years if the offense occurs while you are operating a CMV that is placarded for hazardous materials.

You will lose your CDL for life for a second offense.

You will lose your CDL for life if you use a CMV to commit a felony involving controlled substances. Intrastate Commerce:

You operate in excepted Intrastate commerce when you drive a CMV only in intrastate commerce activities for which your State of licensure has determined do not require you to meet the State’s medical certification requirements. (contact your SDLA about their requirements).

You operate in non-excepted intrastate commerce when you drive a CMV only in intrastate commerce and are required to meet your State of licensure’s medical certification requirements (contact your SDLA about their requirements).

If you operate in both excepted intrastate commerce and non-excepted intrastate commerce, you must choose non-excepted intrastate commerce.

1.2.3 – Self-Certification Statements

When completing an application for your CDL, you will be required to check the box next to the statement that describes your status. The actual statements on your application may vary from those shown below:

! Interstate non-excepted: I certify that I operate or expect to operate in interstate commerce, that I am subject to and meet the Federal DOT medical card requirements under 49 CFR part 391; and that I am required to obtain a medical examiner’s certificate. If you answered no to all of the above activities, you operate in non-excepted interstate commerce and are required to provide a current medical examiner’s certificate (49 CFR 391.45),commonly referred to as a medical certificate or DOT card, to your State Driver Licensing Agency (SDLA). Most CDL holders who drive CMVs in interstate commerce are non-excepted interstate commerce drivers. ! Intrastate non-excepted: I certify that I operate or expect to operate entirely in intrastate commerce, that I am subject to and meet the medical requirements for my State; and that I am required to obtain a medical examiner’s certificate.

! Interstate excepted: I certify that I operate or expect to operate in interstate commerce, but engage exclusively in transportation or operations excepted under 49 CFR §§390.3(f), 391.2, 391.68 or 398.3 from all or parts of the qualification requirements of 49 CFR part 391; and that I am not required to obtain a medical examiner’s certificate. For at least 60 days if you have committed two serious traffic violations within a three-year period involving a CMV. For at least 120 days for three or more serious traffic violations within a three-year period involving a CMV.

1.3.4 – Violation of Out-of-Service Orders

You will lose your CDL: [For at least 90 days if you have committed your first violation of an out-of-service order. For at least one year if you have committed two violations of an out-of-service order in a ten-year period. For at least three years if you have committed three or more violations of an out-of-service order in a ten-year period].

1.3.5

– Railroad-highway Grade Crossing Violations

You will lose your CDL: For at least 60 days for your first violation. For at least 120 days for your second violation within a three-year period. For at least one year for your third violation within a three-year period.

These violations include violation of a federal, state or local law or regulation pertaining to one of the following six offenses at a railroad-highway grade crossing: For drivers who are not required to always stop, failing to stop before reaching the crossing if the tracks are not clear. For drivers who are always required to stop, failing to stop before driving onto the crossing. For all drivers failing to have sufficient space to drive completely through the crossing without stopping. For all drivers failing to obey a traffic control device or the directions of an enforcement official at the crossing. For all drivers failing to negotiate a crossing because of insufficient undercarriage clearance.

1.3.6 – Hazardous Materials Endorsement

Background Check and Disqualifications

If you require a hazardous materials endorsement you will be required to submit your fingerprints and be subject to a background check.

You will be denied or you will lose your hazardous materials endorsement if you: Are not a lawful permanent resident of the United States. Renounce your United States citizenship. Are wanted or under indictment for certain felonies. Have a conviction in military or civilian court for certain felonies. Have been adjudicated as lacking mental capacity or have been involuntarily committed to a mental health facility as specified in §1572.109. Are considered to pose a security threat as determined by the Transportation Security Administration. The background check procedures vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Your licensing agency will provide you with all the information you need to complete the required TSA background check procedures.

1.3.7 – Traffic Violations in Your Personal

Vehicle The Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act (MCSIA) of 1999 requires a CDL holder to be disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle if the CDL holder has been convicted of certain types of moving violations in their personal vehicle. You will be put out-of-service for 24 hours if you have any detectable amount of alcohol under .04%.

1.3.3 – Serious Traffic Violations

Serious traffic violations are excessive speeding (15 mph or more above the posted limit), reckless driving, improper or erratic lane changes, following a vehicle too closely, traffic offenses committed in a CMV in connection with fatal traffic accidents, driving a CMV without obtaining a CDL or having a CDL in the driver’s possession, and driving a CMV without the proper class of CDL and/or endorsements.

You will lose your CDL: For drivers who are not required to always stop, failing to slow down and check that the tracks are clear of an approaching train.

If your privilege to operate your personal vehicle is revoked, cancelled, or suspended due to alcohol, controlled substance or felony violations, you will lose your CDL for 1 year. If you are convicted of a second violation in your personal vehicle or CMV you will lose your CDL for life.

If your license to operate your personal vehicle is revoked, cancelled, or suspended you may not obtain a “hardship” license to operate a CMV.

1.4 – Other CDL Rules

There are other federal and state rules that affect drivers operating CMVs in all states. Among them are: You cannot have more than one license. If you break this rule, a court may fine you up to $5,000 or put you in jail and keep your home state license and return any others. You must notify your employer within 30 days of conviction for any traffic violations (except parking). This is true no matter what type of vehicle you were driving. You must notify your motor vehicle licensing agency within 30 days if you are convicted in any other jurisdiction of any traffic violation (except parking). This is true no matter what type of vehicle you were driving. You must notify your employer within two business days if your license is suspended, revoked, or canceled, or if you are disqualified from driving. You must give your employer information on all driving jobs you have held for the past 10 years. You must do this when you apply for a commercial driving job. No one can drive a commercial motor vehicle without a CDL. A court may fine you up to $5,000 or put you in jail for breaking this rule. If you have a hazardous materials endorsement you must notify and surrender your hazardous materials endorsement to the state that issued your CDL within 24 hours of any conviction or indictment in any jurisdiction, civilian or military, for, or found not guilty by reason of insanity of a disqualifying crime listed in 49 CFR 1572.103; who is adjudicated as lacking mental capacity or have been involuntarily committed to a mental institution as specified in 49 CFR 1572.109; or who renounces his or her U. S. citizenship; All states are connected to one computerized system to share information about CDL drivers. The states will check on drivers' accident records to be sure that drivers do not have more than one CDL. You are not allowed to hold a mobile telephone to conduct a voice communication or dial a mobile telephone by pressing more than a single button when driving. You are not allowed to send or read text messages while driving.

You must be properly restrained by a safety belt at all times while operating a commercial motor vehicle. The safety belt design holds the driver securely behind the wheel during a crash, helping the driver to control the vehicle and reduces the chance of serious injury or death. If you do not wear a safety belt, you are four times more likely to be fatally injured if you are thrown from the vehicle.

Your state may have additional rules that you must also obey.

1.5 – International Registration Plan

International Fuel Tax Agreement

If you operate a CDL required vehicle in interstate commerce, the vehicle, with few exceptions, is required to be registered under the International Registration Plan (IRP) and the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA). These federally mandated programs provide for the equitable collection and distribution of vehicle license fees and motor fuels taxes for vehicles traveling throughout the 48 contiguous United States and 10 Canadian provinces.

Under the IRP, jurisdictions must register apportioned vehicles which includes issuing license plates and cab cards or proper credentials, calculate, collect and distribute IRP fees, audit carriers for accuracy of reported distance and fees and enforce IRP requirements. If your privilege to operate your personal vehicle is revoked, cancelled, or suspended due to violations of traffic control laws (other than parking violations) you will also lose your CDL driving privileges. Your employer may not let you drive a commercial motor vehicle if you have more than one license or if you’re CDL is suspended or revoked. A court may fine the employer up to $5,000 or put him/her in jail for breaking this rule.

A Qualified Vehicle is (except as provided below) any Power Unit that is used or intended for use in two or more Member Jurisdictions and that is used for the transportation of persons for hire or designed, used, or maintained primarily for the transportation of property, and: (i) has two Axles and a gross Vehicle weight or registered gross Vehicle weight in (ii) excess of 26,000 pounds (11,793.401 kilograms), or (iii) has three or more Axles, regardless of weight, or While similar, the Qualified Motor Vehicle in IFTA means a motor vehicle used, designed, or maintained for transportation of persons or property and:

• 1) Having two axles and a gross vehicle weight or registered gross vehicle weight exceeding 26,000 pounds or 11,797 kilograms; or
• 2) Is used in combination, when the weight of such combination exceeds 26,000 pounds or 11,797 kilograms gross vehicle or registered gross vehicle weight. Qualified Motor Vehicle does not include recreational vehicles. If the vehicle you operate is registered under IRP and you are a motor carrier licensed under IFTA, then you are required to comply with the mandatory record keeping requirements for operating the vehicle. A universally accepted method of capturing this information is through the completion of an Individual Vehicle Distance Record (IVDR), sometimes times referred to as a Driver Trip Report. This document reflects the distance traveled and fuel purchased for a vehicle that operates interstate under apportioned (IRP) registration and IFTA fuel tax credentials. Although the actual format of the IVDR may vary, the information that is required for proper record keeping does not. In order to satisfy the requirements for Individual Vehicle Distance Records, these documents must include the following information: Distance Per Article IV of the IRP Plan (i) Date of trip (starting and ending) (ii) Trip origin and destination – City and State or Province (iii) Route(s) of travel (iv) Beginning and ending odometer or hubometer reading of the trip (v) Total distance traveled (vi) In-Jurisdiction distance (vii) Power unit number or vehicle identification number. Fuel Per Section P560 of the IFTA Procedures Manual .300 An acceptable receipt or invoice must include, but shall not be limited to, the following: .005 Date of purchase .010 Seller's name and address .015 Number of gallons or liters purchased; (iv) is used in combination, when the gross Registrant responsibilities under the Plan include applying for IRP registration with base jurisdiction, providing proper documentation for registration, paying appropriate IRP registration fees, properly displaying registration credentials, maintaining accurate distance records, and making records available for jurisdiction review. The basic concept behind IFTA is to allow a licensee (motor carrier) to license in a base jurisdiction for the reporting and payment of motor fuel use taxes. Under the IFTA, a licensee is issued one set of credentials which will authorize operations through all IFTA member jurisdictions. The fuel use taxes collected pursuant to the IFTA are calculated based on the number of miles (kilometers) traveled and the number of gallons (liters) consumed in the member jurisdictions. The licensee files one quarterly tax return with the base jurisdiction by which the licensee will report all operations through all IFTA member jurisdictions. It is the base jurisdiction's responsibility to remit the taxes collected to other member jurisdictions and to represent the other member jurisdictions in the tax collection process, including the performance of audits. An IFTA licensee must retain records to support the information reported on the IFTA quarterly tax return The IRP registrant and the IFTA licensee may be the vehicle owner or the vehicle operator. The requirement for acquiring IRP plates for a vehicle and IFTA license for a motor carrier is determined by the definitions from the IRP Plan and the IFTA for Qualified Vehicle and Qualified Motor Vehicle: For purposes of IRP: Vehicle weight of such combination exceeds 26,000 pounds (11,793.401 kilograms). An example of an IVDR that must be completed in its entirety for each trip can be found in Figure 1 below. Each individual IVDR should be filled out for only one vehicle. The rules to follow when trying to determine how and when to log an odometer reading are the following: " At the beginning of the day " When leaving the state or province " At the end of the trip/day Not only do the trips need to be logged, but the fuel purchases need to be documented as well. You must obtain a receipt for all fueling and include it with your completed IVDR. Make sure that any trips that you enter are always filled out in descending order and that your trips include all state/provinces that you traveled through on your route. There are different routes that a driver may take, and most of the miles may be within one state or province. Whether or not the distance you travel is primarily in one jurisdiction or spread among several jurisdictions, all information for the trip must be recorded. This includes the dates, the routes, odometer readings and fuel purchases. By completing this document in full and keeping all records required by both the IRP and the IFTA, you will have ensured that you and your company are in Figure 1 – Individual Vehicle Mileage & Fuel Record (Example) compliance with all State and Provincial laws surrounding fuel and distance record keeping requirements. The IVDR serves as the source document for the calculation of fees and taxes that are payable to the jurisdictions in which the vehicle is operated, so these original records must be maintained for a minimum of four years. In addition, these records are subject to audit by the taxing jurisdictions. Failure to maintain complete and accurate records could result in fines, penalties and suspension or revocation of IRP registrations and IFTA licenses. For additional information on the IRP and the requirements related to the IRP, contact your base jurisdiction motor vehicle department or IRP, Inc. the official repository for the IRP. Additional information can be found on the IRP, Inc. website at www.irponline.org. There is a training video on the website home page available in English, Spanish and French For additional information on IFTA and the requirements related to IFTA, contact the appropriate agency in your base jurisdiction. You will also find useful information about the Agreement at the official repository of IFTA at http://www.iftach.org/index.php. .020 Fuel type .025 Price per gallon or liter or total amount of sale .030 Unit number or other unique vehicle identifier .035 Purchaser's name