Complete Guide to Federal Trucking Laws

Essential Regulations for Commercial Drivers and Carriers

Quick Reference Summary: Federal Trucking Laws

Key Points: For those looking for a comprehensive guide to understanding the complexities of the trucking industry, a Guide to Federal Trucking Laws is essential.

• The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees all commercial vehicles over 10,001 pounds
• Drivers can work a maximum of 11 hours driving within a 14-hour duty period
• All commercial drivers need valid CDLs, current medical certificates, and must pass drug/alcohol tests
• Motor carriers must have USDOT numbers, proper insurance, and complete annual registrations
• New 2025 rules will require speed limiters and eliminate MC numbers

Understanding Federal Trucking Laws

Federal trucking laws form the backbone of commercial vehicle regulation in America. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, serves as the primary watchdog for all commercial vehicles weighing over 10,001 pounds.

These comprehensive regulations are found in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 300-399. They cover everything from the duration of your driving to the condition your truck must be in.

After truck accidents, expert truck accident attorneys use the violations or regulations as evidence in personal injury lawsuits.

Who do Federal Trucking Laws Apply To?

• All motor carriers operating in interstate commerce
• Commercial drivers crossing state lines
• Many intrastate operations (varies by state)

The regulations are split into two main categories:

1. Individual driver requirements – licensing, medical fitness, driving limits
2. Motor carrier obligations – vehicle maintenance, registration, insurance

Read More: Interstate vs. Intrastate Motor Carriers

Why Compliance with Federal Trucking Laws Matters

Violations can result in substantial fines, operational shutdowns, and damaged safety ratings, which can impact insurance rates and business opportunities. The FMCSA’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program actively tracks performance and can trigger interventions or audits.

Also, after an accident with an 18-wheeler, in many instances, the violations of the safety rules can be used as powerful evidence in a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.

Specific Trucking Laws

Hours of Service Rules (HOS)

Preventing Driver Fatigue Through Time Limits

Hours of Service regulations are arguably the most critical trucking laws, designed to prevent accidents caused by tired drivers.

The Basic Rules:

• 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-hour duty period that cannot be extended or paused
• 30-minute break required within the first 8 hours of driving
• 10-hour rest period required after reaching limits

Weekly Limits:

• 60 hours in 7 consecutive days, OR
• 70 hours in 8 consecutive days
• 34-hour restart resets your weekly clock

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)

Since December 2017, most commercial vehicles must use ELDs that automatically track driving time by connecting to the vehicle’s engine. This eliminated paper logbooks for most operations, making compliance violations much easier to detect.

Special Exceptions:

• Short-haul operations: Drivers staying within 150 air miles of their starting point and working no more than 14 hours can use time records instead of logs
• Personal conveyance: Moving your truck for personal reasons doesn’t count against driving time, but carriers can’t require these movements

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirements

The Foundation of Driver Qualification

Every commercial driver must hold a valid CDL appropriate for their vehicle and cargo type.

CDL Classes:

• Class A: Vehicle combinations over 26,001 pounds (most tractor-trailers)
• Class B: Single vehicles over 26,001 pounds (straight trucks, large buses)
• Class C: Smaller vehicles carrying hazardous materials or 16+ passengers

Age Requirements:

• 21 years old: Interstate commerce
• 18 years old: Intrastate commerce only

Required Endorsements:

• HazMat: Transporting hazardous materials (requires background check)
• Passenger: Carrying 16+ people
• School Bus: Specialized safety requirements for student transport

Testing Process: All CDL applicants must pass both written knowledge tests and hands-on skills tests covering pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving.

Medical Certification: Every CDL holder is required to maintain a current DOT medical certificate, issued by an FMCSA-approved examiner, which is typically renewed every 24 months.

Serious Consequences: Major violations, such as DUI, hit-and-run, or using a commercial vehicle in a felony, can result in CDL suspension or permanent disqualification.

Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs

Keeping Highways Safe Through Substance Monitoring

Federal law requires comprehensive testing programs for all commercial drivers.

Types of Testing:

• Pre-employment: Must pass before operating any commercial vehicle
• Random: 50% tested annually for drugs, 10% for alcohol
• Post-accident: Required after fatalities or accidents meeting specific criteria
• Reasonable suspicion: When supervisors observe signs of impairment

What’s Drug Tested:

• Marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opioids, and PCP
• Alcohol limit: 0.04% (much lower than the 0.08% for regular drivers)

Failed Test Consequences:

• Immediate removal from driving duties
• Required substance abuse evaluation and treatment
• Return-to-duty testing after completing treatment
• Follow-up testing for 12-60 months
• Permanent record in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

Vehicle Safety and Maintenance Standards

Keeping Trucks Roadworthy

Commercial vehicles must meet strict safety standards to operate legally.

Inspection Requirements:

• Annual inspections: Comprehensive safety check every 12 months
• Pre-trip inspections: The Driver must inspect the vehicle before each trip
• Daily reports: Drivers must document any defects or problems

Critical Safety Components:

• Brake systems with specific performance standards
• Tires with minimum tread depth (4/32″ for steer tires, 2/32″ for others)
• Lighting and electrical systems for visibility and communication
• Steering mechanisms and suspension components

Out-of-Service Criteria:

Vehicles with safety defects that pose an immediate hazard must be taken out of service immediately until the repairs are completed and documented.

Motor Carriers Registration and Operating Authority

Getting Legal Permission to Operate

USDOT Number: Registration is required for all motor carriers operating vehicles over 10,001 pounds in interstate commerce. This number tracks your safety performance across government databases.

Operating Authority: For-hire carriers need authority to transport goods or passengers for compensation. Starting October 1, 2025, the current MC number system will be replaced with an expanded USDOT number system.

Insurance Requirements:

• General freight: Minimum $750,000 liability coverage
• Hazardous materials: $1-5 million depending on materials
• Must file proper forms (BMC-91 or BMC-91X) with FMCSA

Annual Requirements:

• Biennial updates every two years
• Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) fees based on fleet size
• Process agent filings in each state where you operate

Driver Qualification Files

Documenting Driver Competency

Motor carriers must maintain comprehensive files proving each driver meets federal standards.

Required Documentation:

• Complete employment application covering 3 years of history
• Motor vehicle record checks from all states where the driver held a license
• Current DOT medical certificate
• Previous employer inquiries about safety performance
• Road test results or equivalent safety training documentation
• Annual review of all file contents

English Proficiency: Drivers must demonstrate adequate English skills to communicate with enforcement officers, read traffic signs, and complete required paperwork.

Recent Rule Changes and 2025 Updates

What’s New in Trucking Regulations

Speed Limiters (Effective May 2025): Commercial vehicles over 26,000 pounds will be required to have speed limiters set between 60-68 mph (final specifications still being determined).

MC Number Elimination (October 1, 2025): The confusing dual numbering system ends as all functions consolidate under the USDOT number system.

Enhanced Background Checks: Stricter review processes for drivers licensed outside their home state will roll out throughout 2025.

Future Technology Requirements:

• Electronic Stability Control required on new Class 7-8 trucks starting in 2027
• Automatic Emergency Braking systems are coming to new commercial vehicles
• Updated medical standards for drivers with certain health conditions

Compliance Best Practices

Staying on the Right Side of the Law

Create Systems:

• Use checklists for new carrier setup
• Conduct quarterly internal audits
• Implement regular driver training programs
• Invest in compliance technology solutions

Stay Current:

• Monitor Federal Register publications for rule changes
• Work with compliance consultants when needed
• Maintain proper documentation systems
• Foster open communication with drivers about safety concerns

Documentation Tips:

• Keep required records for specified retention periods (typically 1-3 years)
• Use electronic systems with proper backups
• Ensure records are accessible for inspections and audits

Common Federal Trucking Laws Questions Answered

Q: What happens if I violate hours of service rules? A: You’ll be placed out of service until you complete the required rest period. Fines range from $1,000 to $16,000, and violations remain on your record, potentially affecting future opportunities.

Q: How often do I need a DOT physical? A: Most drivers need new medical certificates every 24 months. Individuals with certain conditions may require annual or more frequent examinations.

Q: Can personal conveyance extend my driving hours? A: Personal conveyance allows moving your truck for legitimate personal reasons without counting against driving time, but strict conditions apply, and carriers cannot require these movements.

Q: What happens if I fail a drug test? A: Immediate removal from driving duties, required evaluation and treatment, return-to-duty testing, ongoing follow-up testing, and permanent record in the clearinghouse.

Contact the Undefeated 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Attorney in Texas for Help

Call for a free injury accident consultation- Call our Truck Accident Lawyer in Houston at (281) 893-0760.

While we specialize in commercial vehicle accidents, we also handle car accident cases.

About Greg Baumgartner

Greg Baumgartner is a preeminent rated personal injury lawyer based in Houston, Texas, with over three decades of experience representing severely injured clients in truck accidents. He founded Baumgartner Law Firm, in 1985, with a mission to provide excellent legal representation and personalized attention to every client.