California Commercial Driver Handbook PDF

~ __________...,1 STATE OF CALIFORNIA -:19.:;a a- e4: t!!!!M ?!vehides.GOV CALIFORNIA COMMERCIAL DRIVER HANDBOOK THIS PAGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK ...

~ __________...,1 STATE OF CALIFORNIA -:19.:;a a- e4: t!!!!M ?!vehides.GOV CALIFORNIA COMMERCIAL DRIVER HANDBOOK THIS PAGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK  CALIFORNIA DRIVER LICENSE CLASSES You May Drive With a And You May Tow a Examples Commercial Class A Driver License: Single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross Any legal combination of vehicles, including vehicles under vehicle weight (GVW) of more than 10,000 pounds. Class B and Class C Trailer bus, with endorsement More than one vehicle, with endorsement. Vehicle under Class B and Class C. Noncommercial Class A Driver License: Trailer coach weighing over 10,000 pounds GVWR, not used for hire. Any vehicle under Class C Fifth-wheel travel trailer weighing over 15,000 pounds GVWR, not Any housecar over 40 feet but not over 45 feet used for hire. If the towing vehicle weighs 4,000 pounds or more unladen, you may tow a livestock trailer exceeding 10,000 pounds GVWR but not exceeding 15,000 pounds GVWR if all of the following conditions are met and the vehicle is: Controlled and operated by a farmer used to transport livestock to or from a farm. Not used in the operations of a common commerce or contract carrier. Used within 150 miles of the person’s farm. Commercial Class B Driver License: Single vehicle with a GVWR or GVW of 10,000 pounds or less. A single vehicle with a GVWR or GVW of more than 26,000 pounds Vehicle under Class C. A 3 or more axle vehicle weighing over 6,000 pounds A bus (except a trailer bus) with a GVWR or GVW of more than 26,000 pounds, with endorsement Any farm labor vehicle, with endorsement All vehicles under Class C Noncommercial Class B Driver License: Single vehicle with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less, including a tow Any vehicle under Class C dolly, if used. Any housecar over 40 feet but not over 45 feet with endorsement Trailer coach or fifth-wheel travel trailer under 10,000 pounds GVWR when towing is not for compensation. Basic Class C Driver License: A 2-axle vehicle with a GVWR or GVW of 26,000 pounds or less Fifth-wheel travel trailer exceeding 10,000 pounds but not exceeding A 3-axle vehicle weighing 6,000 pounds gross or less 15,000 pounds GVWR, when towing is not for compensation and with A motorized scooter endorsement. Any housecar 40 feet or less If the towing vehicle weighs 4,000 pounds or more unladen, you may A farmer or employee of a farmer may also drive any combination of vehicles tow a trailer coach not exceeding 9,000 pounds gross. with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,000 pounds or less if Note: No passenger vehicle, regardless of weight, may tow more than used exclusively in agricultural operations and not for hire or compensation one vehicle. No motor vehicle under 4,000 pounds unladen may tow any vehicle weighing 6,000 pounds or more gross (CVC §21715). Commercial Class C Driver License: A bus (except a trailer bus) with a GVWR or GVW of 26,000 pounds or less, with endorsement Any Class C vehicle carrying hazardous materials (HazMat) which requires placards, with a HazMat endorsement on their license as defined by CVC §§353 and 15278 A single vehicle designed to transport liquid or gaseous materials in a tank or tanks having an individual rated capacity of more than 119 gallons and aggregate rated capacity of 1,000 gallons or more that is permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or chassis with a GVWR or GVW of 26,000 pounds or less, with endorsement Motorcycle Class M1 Driver License: Motorcycle trailer. 2-wheel motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized scooter Note: Class M1 or M2 is added to any other class driver license after passing law and skill tests. Motorcycle Class M2 Driver License: Motorized bicycle, moped, bicycle with an attached motor, or motorized scooter THIS PAGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK  TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION..................... 1-1 SECTION 3: TRANSPORTING CARGO 1.1 – CDL Tests.......................................... 1-10 SAFELY.......................................................... 3-1 1.2 – Medical Documentation 3.1 – Inspecting Cargo................................. 3-1 Requirements............................................. 1-12 3.2 – Cargo Weight and Balance.................. 3-1 1.3 – CDL Disqualifications........................ 1-14 3.3 – Securing Cargo................................... 3-2 1.4 – Other CDL Rules............................... 1-16 3.4 – Cargo Needing Special Attention........ 3-4 1.5 – International Registration Plan and International Fuel Tax Agreement............... 1-28 SECTION 4: TRANSPORTING PASSENGERS SAFELY............................... 4-1 SECTION 2: DRIVING SAFELY................... 2-1 4.1 – Vehicle Inspection............................... 4-1 2.1 – Vehicle Inspection............................... 2-1 4.2 – Loading and Trip Start......................... 4-2 2.2 – Basic Control of Your Vehicle.............. 2-9 4.3 – On the Road........................................ 4-4 2.3 – Shifting Gears.................................... 2-10 4.4 – After-Trip Vehicle Inspection................ 4-5 2.4 – Seeing............................................... 2-12 4.5 – Prohibited Practices............................ 4-6 2.5 – Communicating................................. 2-14 4.6 – Use of Brake-Door Interlocks.............. 4-6 2.6 – Controlling Your Speed...................... 2-15 2.7 – Managing Space............................... 2-19 SECTION 5: AIR BRAKES........................... 5-1 2.8 – Seeing Hazards................................. 2-21 5.1 – Parts of an Air Brake System.............. 5-1 2.9 – Distracted Driving.............................. 2-24 5.2 – Dual Air Brake..................................... 5-6 2.10 – Aggressive Drivers/Road Rage....... 2-27 5.3 – Inspecting Air Brake Systems.............. 5-7 2.11 – Driving at Night................................ 2-28 5.4 – Using Air Brakes.................................5-11 2.12 – Driving in Fog.................................. 2-32 2.13 – Driving in Winter.............................. 2-32 SECTION 6: COMBINATION VEHICLES.... 6-1 2.14 – Driving in Very Hot Weather............ 2-34 6.1 – Driving Combination Vehicles Safely... 6-1 2.15 – Railroad-Highway Crossings........... 2-35 6.2 – Combination Vehicle Air Brakes.......... 6-5 2.16 – Mountain Driving............................. 2-37 6.3 – Anti-lock Brake Systems...................... 6-8 2.17 – Driving Emergencies....................... 2-38 6.4 – Coupling and Uncoupling.................... 6-9 2.18 – Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS).... 2-41 6.5 – Inspecting a Combination Vehicle..... 6-16 2.19 – Skid Control and Recovery.............. 2-42 2.20 – Accident Procedures....................... 2-44 SECTION 7: DOUBLES AND TRIPLES...... 7-1 2.21 – Fires................................................ 2-44 7.1 – Pulling Double/Triple Trailers............... 7-1 2.22 – Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Driving... 2-46 7.2 – Coupling and Uncoupling.................... 7-2 2.23 – Hazardous Materials Rules for All 7.3 – Inspecting Doubles and Triples........... 7-4 Commercial Drivers.................................... 2-48 7.4 – Doubles/Triples Air Brake Check......... 7-5 SECTION 8: TANK VEHICLES.................... 8-1 8.1 – Inspecting Tank Vehicles..................... 8-1 8.2 – Driving Tank Vehicles.......................... 8-2 8.3 – Safe Driving Rules............................... 8-3 SECTION 9: HAZARDOUS MATERIALS... 9-1 SECTION 11: VEHICLE INSPECTION 9.1 – Intent of the Regulations..................... 9-3 TEST..............................................................11-1 9.2 – Hazardous Materials 11.1 – All Vehicles........................................11-1 Transportation—Who Does What................. 9-3 11.2 – Internal Inspection 9.3 – Communication Rules......................... 9-4 (All Vehicles)................................................11-1 9.4 – Loading and Unloading......................9-11 11.3 – External Inspection 9.5 – Bulk Packaging Marking, Loading, (All Vehicles)................................................11-5 and Unloading............................................ 9-15 11.4 – School Bus Only...............................11-9 9.6 – Hazardous Materials — 11.5 – Trailer..............................................11-10 Driving and Parking Rules.......................... 9-16 11.6 – Coach/Transit Bus..........................11-10 9.7 – Hazardous Materials — 11.7 – Taking the CDL Vehicle Inspection Emergencies.............................................. 9-19 Test............................................................11-11 9.8 – Hazardous Materials — Glossary...... 9-24 SECTION 12: BASIC CONTROL SKILLS SECTION 10: SCHOOL BUSES................ 10-1 TEST............................................................. 12-1 10.1 – Danger Zones and Use of Mirrors... 10-1 12.1 – Skills Test Scoring........................... 12-1 10.2 – Loading and Unloading................... 10-3 12.2 – Skills Test Exercises........................ 12-2 10.3 – Emergency Exit and Evacuation..... 10-7 10.4 – Railroad-Highway Grade SECTION 13: ROAD TEST......................... 13-1 Crossings................................................... 10-8 13.1 – How You Will Be Tested................... 13-1 10.5 – Student Management.....................10-11 10.6 – Anti-lock Braking Systems..............10-11 10.7 – Special Safety Considerations...... 10-12 This material is based upon work supported by the Federal Motor Carrier 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, Department of Motor Vehicles 2019-2021 All rights reserved This work is protected by U. S. Copyright Law. DMV owns the copyright of this work. Copyright law prohibits the following: (1) reproduction of the copyrighted work; (2) distribution of copies of the copyrighted work; (3) preparation of derivative works based upon the copyrighted work; (4) displaying the copyrighted work publicly; or (5) performing the copyrighted work publicly. All requests for permission to make copies of all or any part of this publication should be addressed to: Department of Motor Vehicles Legal Office, MS C128 PO Box 932382 Sacramento, CA 94232-3820  SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION This Section Covers Who Needs a CDL 1.1 – CDL Tests You Must Have a CDL to Operate: 1.2 – Medical Documentation Requirements A single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rat- 1.3 – CDL Disqualifications ing (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. 1.4 – Other CDL Rules A combination of vehicles with a gross combi- nation weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds 1.5 – International Registration Plan and or more. International Fuel Tax Agreement A vehicle designed, used, or maintained for carry- ing more than 10 passengers, including the driver There is a federal requirement that each state have (see chart below). minimum standards for licensing of commercial A 3-axle vehicle weighing more than 6,000 drivers. pounds. The California Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety You Must Have a CDL When: Program was enacted to improve traffic safety on Towing a vehicle or trailer, which has a GVWR our roadways. As a result, California has developed of 10,001 pounds or more. licensing and testing requirements for drivers of Transporting hazardous materials (HazMat), commercial vehicles that equals or exceeds federal which require placards. standards. Transporting HazMat, as defined in California This handbook provides driver license (DL) testing Health and Safety Code (CHSC) §§25115 and information for drivers who wish to have a commer- 25117. cial learner’s permit (CLP)/commercial driver license Towing any combination of 2 trailers or vehicle (CDL). This handbook does not provide informa- and trailer. tion on all the federal and state requirements needed Horse trailers with living quarters and a GVWR over before you can drive a commercial motor vehicle 10,000 pounds require a commercial Class A DL. Re- (CMV). More information may be found in Title 49, striction 88 will be added to the DL if the truck and Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) or California trailer GCWR is under 26,001 pounds. Vehicle Code (CVC). Type of License Required for Passenger Vans Is the gross combination weight rating of the vehicle driven more than 26,000 pounds? YES NO Is the vehicle used as a vanpool? NO YES Commercial Driver License NOT REQUIRED Is the vehicle, maintained or Is the vehicle designed, maintained NO used to carry more than 15 NO or used to carry more than 10 persons including the driver? persons including the driver? YES YES Is the vehicle used Commercial YES for transporting NO Driver License persons for compensation, REQUIRED profit, or used by any nonprofit organization or group? 1-1 Restriction 88 – restricted to combination vehicles Holder must be accompanied by a CDL holder with a GCWR of less than 26,001 pounds and the while operating a CMV. The CDL holder must GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of possess the appropriate class CDL and endorse- 10,000 pounds. ments necessary to operate the CMV. Horse trailers are defined as property carrying vehi- Holder must surrender their CLP and DL to cles and the addition of “living quarters” to a trailer DMV prior to being issued a CDL. does not permanently alter that vehicle for human Applicants Applying for a CDL habitation. The “living quarters” are secondary or in- cidental to the primary function of the vehicle, which Must be 18 years of age. is transporting property. Must obtain a California Noncommercial Class C DL (a temporary/interim DL is acceptable). How to Get a CLP/CDL The DL must be carried to validate the CLP (CFR, Title 49 §§383.5 and 383.25). Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) May drive for hire within California if you are The commercial instruction permit has been renamed 18 years of age or older and do not engage in CLP to comply with federal regulations. The CLP: interstate commerce activities. Applicant must be at least 18 years of age. Must be at least 21 years old to drive a commer- Will not be issued to an applicant until they cial vehicle engaged in interstate commerce or have obtained a valid California DL that, at a transport HazMat or wastes (intrastate or inter- minimum, allows the applicant to operate a non- state commerce) (CVC §12515). commercial Class C motor vehicle. A temporary Provide the Following Items: California DL is acceptable. A completed Commercial Driver License Ap- Is only valid when accompanied by the CLP plication (DL 44C/eDL 44C) form. The eDL holder’s valid California DL. 44C may be completed online in advance. Sign- Will be valid for a maximum of 180 days from ing this form means you agree to submit to a the date of issuance and may be renewed for up chemical test to deterine the alcohol or drug con- to an additional 180 days, provided the CLP ex- tent of your blood when requested by a peace piration date does not exceed a period of 1 year officer. If you refuse to sign this form, the De- from the initial application date. partment of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will not issue Is limited to the following endorsements: or renew your DL. — Tank (N). Your true full name. — Passenger (P). Approved Medicals – (See Section 1.2) — School Bus (S). An acceptable identity (birth date/legal pres- Holder with an “N” endorsement is prohibited ence) document. All applicants for an original, from operating a tank vehicle unless the tank is renewal, upgrade, or transfer of their CLP/CDL empty. The tank must be purged if it previously must submit proof of legal presence in the U.S. contained HazMat. as authorized under federal law. Holder with a “P” endorsement and/or “S” en- — If the name on your identity document is dorsement is prohibited from operating a CMV different from the name on your CDL appli- with passengers, other than federal/state auditors cation, you must also submit an acceptable and inspectors, test examiners, other trainees, and true full name document. the accompanying CDL holder. — Your true full name, as shown on your identi- Holder must wait a minimum of 14 days after ty document, will appear on your CLP/CDL. initial CLP issuance to be eligible to take the skills test. The 14-day waiting period applies to classification upgrades and endorsement/restric- tion changes that require a skills test. 1-2  Fees subject to legislative change each January 1. Fees shown are effective January 1, 2020. See dmv.ca.gov for current fees. If the class of license is… and the application type is… the fee is… an original (with/without a driving test)............................................................... $82 a renewal............................................................................................................. $48 a commercial driving or skill retest...................................................................... $37 a duplicate (replacement) license........................................................................ $36 a name change.................................................................................................... $30 Commercial to remove a restriction(s) imposed due to vehicle size or equipment Class A or B (DT required)....................................................................................................... $82 add an endorsement other than PV..................................................................... $48 add a passenger transport endorsement (PV).................................................... $82 add noncommercial Class A to a Class B............................................................ $37 add a motorcycle license (Class M1 or M2)........................................................ $48 add a firefighter endorsement.............................................................................. $30 an original (with/without a driving test)............................................................... $48 a renewal............................................................................................................. $48 an upgrade: to remove an air brake restriction (DT required)............................................ $48 Commercial to add an endorsement not requiring a driving test....................................... $48 Class C to add a motorcycle license (Class M1 or M2)............................................... $48 to add a Firefighter endorsement................................................................... $30 a commercial driving or skill retest...................................................................... $37 a duplicate (replacement) license........................................................................ $36 a name change.................................................................................................... $30 — An acceptable identity or true full name doc- Residency (Domicile). A California driver must ument is produced by an issuing authority provide 1 document as proof of California res- (for example, county, state, etc.). idency for original and upon each renewal, ◦ This document is a certified copy of the transfer, or upgrade. The address on the res- original (the original is always retained idency document must match the residence by the issuing authority) and contains address on the DL 44C. For more information an impressed seal or original stamped on acceptable residency documents or REAL ID impression. Compliant CLP/CDL, visit dmv.ca.gov or call ◦ The certified copy will be returned to 1-800-777-0133. you. Provide proof of your social security num- ◦ If you make a copy of the certified copy, ber. Your social security number (SSN) will be DMV will not accept it for identity verified with the Social Security Administration verification. while you are in the office. For more information on social security documents, visit dmv.ca.gov — For more information on acceptable iden- or call 1-800-777-0133. tity documents, visit dmv.ca.gov or call 1-800-777-0133. Note: If you are applying for an original CDL (REAL ID or federal non-compliant), a social security card is the only acceptable proof of SSN. 1-3  A Certificate of Driving Skill (DL 170 ETP). Notify their home state DMV of any conviction If your employer is authorized by DMV to is- which occurred in other states within 30 days of sue such certificate, both you and your employer the conviction. must sign this form. Notify their employer of any conviction within The application fee. This fee is good for 12 30 days of the conviction using the Report of months from the application date. The CLP is Out-of-State Traffic Conviction by a Commercial good for a maximum of 180 days and may be Driver (DL 535) form. renewed for an additional 180 days without Notify their employer of any revocation, suspen- retaking the knowledge tests, provided the ex- sion, cancellation, or disqualification before the piration date of the CLP does not exceed a period end of the business day following the action. of 1 year from the application date. Scores for Give their employer a 10-year employment his- passed segments of the skills test are only valid tory of commercial driving, if applying for a job during the initial issuance (first 180 days) of the as a driver. CLP. Passed segments of the skills test (vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and road test) Endorsements must be retaken if the CLP is renewed. A special endorsement is also required to drive the You are allowed 3 attempts to pass the knowl- following types of vehicles. The endorsement shows edge test(s) and a total of 3 attempts to pass the as a single letter on the DL. entire skills test on a single application. If you Placarded or marked vehicles transporting fail any knowledge test(s) there is not a wait- HazMat or wastes—(H). Any driver, regard- ing period to retake. If you fail any segment of less of the vehicle Class (A, B, or C), who wants the skills tests (vehicle inspection, basic control to haul any material that has been designated as skills, or road test), it will count as 1 failure to- hazardous under 49 United States Code (U.S.C.) wards the maximum 3 attempts you are allowed. §5103 and is required to be placarded under Example: Failing the vehicle inspection, basic CFR, Title 49 §172 subpart F; or any quantity control skills, and road test counts as a 3-time of a material listed as a select agent or toxin CFR, failure (or any failure combination equaling 3). Title 42 §73 must add an “H” endorsement to However, if you are required to take the skills test their CDL. They must pass a special knowledge for separate types of vehicles (Class A or passen- examination on how to recognize, handle, and ger transport vehicle), you are allowed 3 skills transport HazMat. test attempts for the Class A vehicle and 3 skills test attempts for the passenger transport vehicle. Note: Applicants who apply for an original If you fail the basic skills test or the road test, Class C CDL with the “H” endorsement are re- there will be a retest fee charged upon your return quired to complete the skills test. to take the subsequent test. There is not a wait- The Transportation Security Administration ing period to retake basic control skills test(s). (TSA) and the U.S. Department of Transpor- Additional Requirements tation (DOT) require background checks on commercial drivers who are certified to trans- All commercial vehicle drivers must: port HazMat. The background checks include Be a California resident before applying for a a review of criminal, immigration, and FBI re- California CLP/CDL. cords. If the driver is found to represent a security Disclose all states in which they were previously threat, TSA will notify the person and the state licensed during the past 10 years and surrender will deny issuance of an endorsement. all out-of-state DLs (current or expired), if any. Tank vehicles (including a cement truck)— Certify that they do not have a DL from more (N). Drivers of any CMV that is designed to than 1 state or country. transport any liquid or gaseous materials within a Self-certify what type of commercial commerce tank or tanks having an individual rated capacity you expect to operate. 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 ve- hicle or the chassis must add a “N” endorsement 1-4  Commercial Driver Licensing Offices Call 1-800-777-0133 to schedule a CDL driving test at one of the following offices: Arleta Fremont Mountain View Stockton Bakersfield Fresno Commercial Rancho San Diego Ukiah Driving Test Center Bishop Redding Ventura El Centro Gardena Salinas Commercial Driving Test Center W Sacramento Eureka San Luis Obispo Commercial Driving Fontana Lancaster Test Center Santa Rosa Commercial Driving Test Center Modesto Santa Teresa Yuba City For latest commercial driver licensing offices, go to dmv.ca.gov. to their CLP/CDL. A CMV transporting an empty examination on safety considerations when trans- storage container tank, not designed for trans- porting passengers in a school bus and must pass portation, with a rated capacity of 1,000 gallons skills tests in a school bus. The endorsement ap- or more that is temporarily attached to a flat- plies to applicants who wish to drive a school bus bed trailer is not considered a tank vehicle. The in any Class A or B CDL. endorsement applies to applicants who wish to Double/Triples combination—(T). Many driv- drive a tank in Class A, B, or C CDL. Liquids ers who are qualified to drive Class A CDL may in bulk cause driving control problems because want to pull double or triple trailers. Research the cargo is heavy, prone to shifting, and has a shows that considerable additional knowledge high center of gravity. These drivers must pass a and skill is necessary to safely pull double and special knowledge examination on the problems triple trailers in various traffic conditions and posed by large volume liquid cargos to add the driving environments. Consequently, adding the endorsement to their CLP/CDL. “T” endorsement to drive a Class A CDL is nec- Note: Applicants applying for an original Class essary if wanting to pull double or triple trailers. C CDL with the “N” endorsement are required The CDL holder must pass a special knowledge to complete the skills test. examination on the problems associated with Passenger transport vehicles—(P). Drivers pulling multiple trailers. Important: Triple trail- who want to drive a vehicle having a design ers are not legal in California. capacity to carry 10 or more people, including Tank vehicles transporting hazardous mate- the driver, must add a “P” endorsement to their rials or wastes—(X). (Hazardous waste must CLP/CDL. They must pass a special knowledge meet the definition of CVC §§353 and 15278.) examination on safety considerations when trans- Drivers of tank vehicles who haul HazMat or porting passengers and must pass skills tests in waste in amounts requiring placards must add a passenger vehicle. The endorsement applies to an “X” endorsement to their CDL to show that applicants who want to drive a bus in any Class they passed the special knowledge examinations A, B, or C CDL. for both tank vehicles and HazMat. Note: Applicants applying for a “P” endorse- Firefighter—(F). Required for the operation of ment are required to complete the skills test. firefighting equipment. (Not required, but option- School bus—(S). Drivers who want to drive a al for Class A or B CDL holders.) school bus must add an “S” endorsement to their CLP/CDL. They must pass a special knowledge 1-5 Restrictions 5. (N)–No Class A and B passenger vehicle: If an applicant applying for a “P” endorsement Restrictions may be added to a CLP/CDL based upon performs the skills test in a passenger vehicle the type of vehicle and equipment that the driver uses requiring a Class C CDL, DMV must indicate on for the skills test. There are 10 standardized restric- the CDL, if issued, that the person is restricted tion codes. from operating a passenger vehicle requiring a Note: If a CLP is issued with a “P” or “S” en- Class A or B CDL. dorsement, it must also contain a Restriction P–No 6. (O)–No tractor-trailer CMV: If an applicant passenger in a CMV bus restriction. performs the skills test in a combination vehicle If a CLP is issued with a “N” endorsement, it must for a Class A CDL with the power unit and towed also contain a Restriction X–No cargo in a CMV unit connected with a pintle hook or other non tank vehicle. fifth-wheel connection, DMV must indicate on 1. (E)–No manual transmission: If an applicant the CDL, if issued, that the person is restrict- performs the skills test in a vehicle equipped with ed from operating a tractor-trailer combination an automatic transmission, DMV must indicate connected by a fifth-wheel that requires a Class on the CDL, if issued, that the person is restricted A CDL. An applicant who passes a skills test from operating a CMV equipped with a manual using a combination vehicle that is not a truck transmission. For the purpose of the skills test tractor semi-trailer combination, but is otherwise and restriction, an automatic transmission in- equipped with a fifth-wheel, will be issued a CDL cludes any transmission not operating fully on with Restriction “O”. the gearshift and clutch principle. 7. (P)–No passenger in CMV bus: A CLP hold- 2. (K)–Intrastate only: If an applicant certifies er with a “P” endorsement is prohibited from their status as either Non-Excepted Intrastate operating a CMV carrying passengers, other (NA) or Excepted Intrastate (EA), the state must than federal/state auditors and inspectors, test indicate on the CDL, if issued, that the person examiners, other trainees, and the CDL holder is restricted from operating a CMV in Interstate accompanying the CLP holder as prescribed by commerce. States may impose this restriction for CFR, Title 49 §383.25(a)(1) of this part. reasons other than those specified above. (S)–A CLP holder with an “S” endorsement 3. (L)–No Air brake equipped CMV: If an appli- is prohibited from operating a school bus with cant does not take or fails the air brake component passengers, other than federal/state auditors and of the knowledge test, or performs the skills test inspectors, test examiners, other trainees, and in a vehicle not equipped with air brakes, DMV the CDL holder accompanying the CLP holder must indicate on the CLP or CDL, if issued, that as prescribed by CFR, Title 49 §383.25(a)(1) of the person is restricted from operating a CMV this part. equipped with any type of air brakes. For the pur- 8. (V)–Medical variance: If DMV is notified ac- poses of the skills test and restriction, air brakes cording to CFR, Title 49 §383.73(o)(3) that the include any braking system operating fully or driver has been issued a medical variance, DMV partially on the air brake principle. must indicate the existence of such a medical 4. (M)–No Class A passenger vehicle: If an ap- variance on the Commercial Driver License In- plicant applying for a “P” endorsement performs formation System (CDLIS) driver record and the the skills test in a passenger vehicle requiring a CDL document, if issued, using Restriction “V”. Class B CDL, DMV must indicate on the CDL, 9. (X)–No cargo in CMV tank vehicle: A CLP if issued, that the person is restricted from operat- holder with an “N” endorsement may only op- ing a passenger vehicle requiring a Class A CDL. erate an empty tank vehicle and is prohibited from operating any tank vehicle that previously contained HazMat that has not been purged of any residue. 1-6 10. (Z)–No full air brake equipped CMV: If an Special Certificates applicant performs the skills test in a vehicle equipped with air over hydraulic brakes, DMV Special certificates may sometimes be required in must indicate on the CDL, if issued, that the per- addition to a CDL, depending on the type of vehicle son is restricted from operating a CMV equipped or load carried. with any braking system operating fully on the Note: It is unlawful to drive a school bus or tran- air brake principle. For the purposes of the skills sit vehicle while using a wireless (cell) telephone test and restriction, air over hydraulic brakes in- for non-work purposes. Emergency calls to law en- cludes any braking system operating partially on forcement, a health care provider, fire department, or the air brake and partially on the hydraulic brake other emergency services are permitted. principle. Apply at DMV Field Offices for the CDL Exceptions Following Certificates: Exceptions to the CDL requirements are: Ambulance Driver Certificate—required for driv- ing an ambulance used commercially in emergency Drivers exempted under CHSC §25163. service (CVC §2512). Persons who have an ambu- Drivers operating a vehicle in an emergency situ- lance driver certificate must submit a copy of the ation at the direction of a peace officer. Medical Examination Report (MER) form MSCA- Drivers who tow a fifth-wheel travel trailer over 5875 and Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) 15,000 pounds GVWR or a trailer coach over form MCSA-5876 to DMV every 2 years. 10,000 pounds GVWR, when the towing is not Hazardous Agricultural Materials (HAM) Cer- for compensation. Drivers must have a noncom- tificate*—exempts persons who transport hazardous mercial Class A DL. waste or placarded loads from CDL requirements if Drivers of housecars over 40 feet but not over the: 45 feet, with endorsement. Person is at least 21 years of age. Non-civilian military personnel drivers operating military vehicles. Person is employed in an agricultural operation. Implement of husbandry operators who are not Load is not being transported for compensation. required to have a DL. Vehicle is owned or leased by a farmer. Vanpool drivers. Person has completed a HAM program approved by CHP. Although the person who qualifies for a HAM is not required to have a CDL, CMV pen- alties and sanctions will apply. Person submits a copy of the MER and MEC or Health Questionnaire (DL 546) form(s) to DMV every 2 years. Person operates a vehicle which is an implement of husbandry or requires a noncommercial Class C DL and does not exceed 50 miles from one point to another. * Drivers subject to commercial driver sanctions. 1-7  Figure 1.1 1-8 Determining Class of CDL Required I< the GVWR/GCWR ~ 26,001 or more pouncs? YES ---+I IS the GVWR of the power unit 26,001 or more pm,.nds.? ~ YES ---+I IS the GVWR of t he trailer/towed unit 10,001 or more YES ►( Class A ) pounc s? NO NO NO ►( Class B ) ts this a combination I )I, YES _ _ _ _.,. IS the GVWR of the vehicle? trailer/towed unit 10,001 or more YES -----1),.il Is the GCWR 26,001 1--------1► or more poLnds.? YES ---►( Class A ) pouncs? NO NO NO ------------------.i( ► 1 Re~ t~~;t~o:'.~8") Does the veh ic le have 3-axles ar,d NO weigh over 6,000 pouncs? Is the vehicle transporting h,mardous materials in plac arded quanity? a YES -►( ClassC ) YES NO ~ ) Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) means Is t he vehicle a farm la bor vehicle designed, used, or th e value sp ecified by the manufacturer as t he loaded maintoined to transport 10 or more persons -►( weight of a combination (articulated) vehi cle. In the including the driver? Is t he vehicle designed, use d, o r , - - - - - - - - - -. absence o f the value specified by the manufacturer, YES Cla ss B ) maintil ined t o transport more than 10 persons GCWR will be determined by add ing the GVWR of the including the driver, for pr~fit, compensatian, or by power unit and the total weig ht of t owed unit and any non-profit orga ni:ation? any load thereon. Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) means the valu~ specified by the manufact urer as th e loaded weight of a single vehicle. NO ----------------------..i(No ► CDL Requir ed) Verification of Transit Training (VTT) Docu- Youth Bus Certificate*—required for any person ment—requires drivers of transit bus vehicles to who operates any bus, other than a school bus, which comply with specified training requirements. Transit carries not more than 16 children and the driver to bus vehicles provide the public with regularly sched- or from a school, to an organized non-school related uled transportation for which a fare is charged (does activity, or to and from home (additional CHP train- not include general public paratransit vehicles). Driv- ing required) (CVC §§680 and 12523). ers who have a school bus driver certificate or school Tow Truck Driver Certificate*—required for driv- pupil activity bus certificate do not need a VTT. ers in emergency road service organizations that Apply at CHP Offices for the Following provide freeway service patrol operations pursuant to Certificates: an agreement or who contract with a specified public transportation planning entity (traffic commission). General Public Paratransit Vehicle (GPPV) Cer- Vehicle for Developmentally Disabled Persons tificate*—required for any person who drives: (VDDP)*—required for any person who operates a A vehicle which carries not more than 24 per- vehicle for a business or nonprofit organization or sons, including the driver, and provides local agency whose primary job is to transport for hire transportation to the general public (for example, persons with developmental disabilities (Califor- Dial-A-Ride) (CVC §§336 and 12523.5). nia Welfare and Institutions Code §4512(A) and Pupils at or below the 12th grade level to or from CVC §12523.6). a public or private school or school activity. *Drivers subject to commercial driver sanctions. Vehicles used in the exclusive transportation of disabled persons. General School Bus Driver Certificate*— required for any To get a CDL, you must pass both the knowledge person who drives a bus for any school district or and skills tests. This handbook is designed to help other party carrying public or private pupils (CVC you pass the tests. This handbook is not a substitute §§545, 12517, 12522, 34500, and 34501.5). A school for a truck driver training class or program. Formal bus driver must also have an “S” endorsement on training is the most reliable way to learn the many their CDL. School bus drivers 65 years of age and special skills required for safely driving a large CMV older must submit annual MER and MEC forms to and becoming a professional driver in the trucking DMV (CVC §12517.2). industry. Figure 1.1 will help you determine if you School Pupil Activity Bus Certificate (SPAB)*—re- need a CDL. quired for any person who drives a bus for any school district or other party carrying public or private pupils for school-related activities (CVC §§546 and 12517). Farm Labor Vehicle Certificate*—required for any person who drives farm labor trucks and buses (CVC §§322 and 12519). Note: The driver and all passengers in a farm labor vehicle are required to use seat belts. * Drivers subject to commercial driver sanctions. 1-9 1.1 – CDL Tests Note: Allow for 2–3 hours if taking all tests. Your knowledge and/or endorsement test(s) will not be 1.1.1 – Knowledge Tests returned to you. The commercial knowledge tests are available in Eng- You may take the knowledge test at any DMV field lish, Arabic, Chinese, Punjabi, Russian, and Spanish. office. Office hours vary. Visit dmv.ca.gov or call All knowledge tests administered by DMV that are 1-800-777-0133 to make an appointment. required to be taken by a CDL applicant or cardholder must be taken using the Automated Knowledge Test- Use of Testing Aids Are Prohibited ing equipment (AKTE). The use of testing aids is strictly prohibited during the You must take 1 or more knowledge tests, depending knowledge test. This includes, but is not limited to on what class of license and endorsements you need. the California Commercial Driver Handbook, cheat If you are adding an endorsement, but not upgrading sheets, or electronic communication devices such as to a higher classification, DMV will waive all knowl- a cell phone, hand-held computer, watch, etc. edge and endorsement tests completed or waived on If any testing aid(s) or a substitute test taker is used the previous application, including HazMat, if the during the knowledge test, the knowledge test will new application is started within 12 months of the be marked as a failure. An action may also be taken previous renewal date or original CDL issue date. by DMV against your driving privilege or the driving CDL knowledge tests include: privilege of anyone else who assists the applicant in The general knowledge test, required to be taken the examination process. by all applicants. During the vehicle inspection test, formerly known The passenger transport test, required to be as pre-trip, DMV does not allow the use of testing taken by all bus driver applicants. aids, other than the vehicle inspection guide (Sec- The air brakes test, required to be taken by driv- tion 11) in this handbook. If you are caught using ers of vehicles with air brakes, including air over anything other than the inspection guide, the com- hydraulic brakes. mercial skills test will be marked as a failure. The use of electronic devices, such as cell phones, blue tooth, The combination vehicles test, required if you CB radios, Apple watch, etc., is prohibited during the want to drive combination vehicles. commercial skills test. In addition, people waiting in The hazardous materials test, required if you the testing vicinity are prohibited from using hand want to haul hazardous materials as defined in signals and shouting instructions. If this occurs, the CFR, Title 49 §383.5. To obtain this endorse- test will be discontinued and marked as a commer- ment, you must pass a Transportation Security cial skills test failure. If markings are found on the Administration (TSA) background check. vehicle being used for the test to help with passing The tank vehicle test, required if you want to the vehicle inspection or basic control skills test, for- haul any liquid or gaseous materials in a tank merly known as skills test, including but not limited or tanks having an individual rated capacity of to: writing on the vehicle, tape, paint markings that more than 119 gallons and an aggregate rated do not appear like they belong, or markings on the capacity of 1,000 gallons or more that is either curbs, walls, or trees that would help the applicant permanently or temporarily attached to the ve- maneuver the vehicle for the basic control skills test, hicle or chassis. the test will be discontinued and marked as a failure. The doubles/triples test, required if you want to The use of any recording device, including a video pull double or triple trailers. (Triple trailers are event recorder (dash cam), is prohibited during any not legal in California.) commercial skills test. A dash cam is a device that The school bus test, required if you want to drive continuously records in a digital loop, recording audio a school bus. and/or video, but saves audio and/or video only when The firefighter endorsement test, required to triggered by an unusual motion or crash or when the operate firefighting equipment. (Not required but vehicle is operated to monitor driver performance. If the optional for Class A or B CDL holders.) vehicle is equipped with a recording device, it must be powered off or the visual and/or audio recording fea- tures must be disabled. If the recording device cannot 1-10 be powered off or disabled, which is typical for a CMV, A road test is required: the applicant must block the recording device, so there For an original CDL. is no visual and/or audio recording during the road test. To remove a restriction placed on your CDL be- 1.1.2 – Skills Tests cause of vehicle size or equipment. If you pass the required knowledge test(s), you can To add a “P” or “S” endorsement. take the CDL skills tests. There are 3 types of general To renew a CDL expired for more than 2 years. skills tests that you are required to pass: vehicle in- CDL Restrictions spection, basic control skills, and road test, formerly known as drive test. You must take these tests in the Your CDL will be restricted to the type of vehicle you type of vehicle for which you wish to be licensed. use for the driving test. For example, if your test ve- Any vehicle that has components marked or labeled hicle does not have air brakes, you will be restricted cannot be used for the vehicle inspection test. All to driving vehicles without air brakes. If your pas- skills tests must be conducted in English. An inter- senger transport vehicle carries 15 persons or less preter is prohibited for the CDL skills test. including the driver, you will be restricted to driving a small size bus. Vehicle Inspection Test. You will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. You Troops to Trucks will be asked to do a vehicle inspection and explain to The Troops to Trucks program allows DMV to waive the examiner what you would inspect and why. This the CDL skills test for qualified military service mem- test takes approximately 40 minutes. If you do not bers who are employed, or were within the last year, pass the vehicle inspection test, the other tests will in a military position requiring the operation of a be postponed. There is no additional fee for retaking military motor vehicle equivalent to a CMV on public the vehicle inspection test on the same application. roads and highways. Qualified applicants must sub- See Section 11 for vehicle inspection test information. mit completed CDL Certification for Military Waiver Basic Control Skills Test. You will be tested on your of CDL Driving Test (DL 963) and a Commanding skill to control the vehicle. You will be asked to move Officer’s Certification of Driving Experience (DL your vehicle forward, backward, and turn it within a 964) forms, in addition to any other documents re- defined area. These areas may be marked with traf- quired to apply for a CDL. fic lanes, cones, barriers, or something similar. The These forms are available at dmv.ca.gov. Active duty examiner will tell you how each control test is to be members will need to provide their military identi- done. You will be scored on your ability to properly fication (ID), while veterans will need to provide a perform each exercise. This test takes approximately Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty 30 minutes. Failure of any skills test ends the test. A (DD Form 214), which shows their discharge was retest fee is due for each basic control skills retest. within the last year. See Section 12 for skill test information. Note: The CDL skills test will not be waived for an Road Test. You will be tested on your skill to safely “S” and/or “P” endorsement. drive your vehicle in a variety of traffic situations on a DMV specified route. 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. The test takes approximately 45–60 minutes. If you fail the road test, a retest fee is charged for each additional road test. See Section 13 for road test information. 1-11 Figure 1.2 details which sections of this handbook 1.2 – Medical Documentation you should study for each particular class of license and each endorsement. Requirements CDL drivers in interstate commerce and drivers applying for, or who hold, a certificate to drive WHAT SECTIONS SHOULD YOU a School Bus, School Pupil Activity Bus, Youth STUDY? Bus, General Public Paratransit Vehicle, or Farm Labor Vehicle must use medical examiners list- Sections to Study License Type Endorsement ed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Double / Triple Tank Vehicles School Bus Hazardous Passenger Examiners (National Registry). The National Reg- Materials Class C Class A Class B istry is a federal program establishing requirements for healthcare professionals that perform physical qualification examinations for CMV drivers. This 1 X X X program was developed to improve highway safety 2 X X X X X X and driver health by requiring medical examiners to 3 X X X be trained and certified so they can determine effec- tively whether a commercial driver’s medical fitness 4 X for duty meets federal standards. 5* X X X X If you are required to have a CDL as part of your job, 6 X X X your employer shall pay the cost of the examination 7 X unless it was performed before you applied for the job California Labor Code (CLC §231). 8 X A CDL driver may start an application and take the 9 X X law and vision tests before submitting a medical 10 X report. Do not issue any commercial licensing doc- 11 X X X X X ument until the driver submits a qualifying medical report. 12 X X X X X CDL drivers (interstate or intrastate) who success- 13 X X X X X fully pass a commercial medical examination, will *Study Section 5 if you plan to operate vehicles submit to DMV a valid (original or copy) MER and equipped with air brakes. MEC form when applying for an original CLP or Figure 1.2 – What to Study CDL or updating an existing medical expiration date. School bus drivers 65 years of age and older must submit a new medical report to DMV every year (CVC §12517.2(a)(b)). MER and MEC forms completed by a U.S. licensed doctor of medicine (MD), doctor of osteopathy (DO), licensed physician assistant (PA), advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), or doctor of chiroprac- tic (DC) who is listed on the National Registry of Certtified Medical Examiners as clinically competent to perform the medical examination, must be given to DMV with your original application for a CLP or CDL. The MER and MEC forms must be dated within the last 2 years. When submitting the MER, you are only required to submit pages 1–4. Page 5 of the MER form address- es meeting medical standards with a state variance. A DMV variance would exempt a driver from the 1-12 federal physical standards. California does not Non-Excepted Intrastate (NA): Operates or expects have any variances or exemptions from the fed- to operate in intrastate commerce and required to eral physical standards. meet the qualification requirements under CFR, Title The medical examiner must complete and sign the 49 §391. The cargo and passengers must originate MEC form, for you to carry when you are driving and end in California. While driving commercially commercially. You can be given a citation for driv- you may not cross state or international borders. ing out of class if you drive a CMV after your MEC Intrastate commerce means trade, traffic, or expires. transportation in the U.S. that is: Any noncommercial driver previously required to — Between two places in the state as part of submit a Medical Examination Report (DL 51), trade, traffic, or transportation originating or ambulance drivers, van pool drivers, and Freeway terminating inside the state. Service Patrol tow truck drivers, are required to sub- Note: If you self-certify as operating NA (Non- mit an MER and MEC form. A DL 51 is no longer Excepted Intrastate) your CDL card and driver acceptable. record will reflect a CDL Intrastate Only Re- A commercial driver who does not pass the medical striction (40/K). examination may qualify for a California intrastate Excepted Interstate (EI): California does not is- restricted Medical Certificate (DL 51B). These driv- sue a CDL that is excepted from driver qualification ers must submit a MER to DMV showing they did requirements. not pass the medical examination in order to be con- Excepted Intrastate (EA): California does not is- sidered for an intrastate restricted medical certificate. sue a CDL that is excepted from driver qualification You may take the completed MER and MEC form requirements. to a DMV field office to be updated. You may also Excepted and Non-Excepted Licensing mail the MER and MEC form, at least 4 weeks prior — Some states issue a CDL that does not require to the expiration of your previous medical to: drivers to meet the qualifications outlined in Department of Motor Vehicles CFR, Title 49 §391. Those drivers are con- CDL Unit, MS G204 sidered “excepted” drivers. California does PO Box 944278 not issue that kind of DL. Sacramento, CA 94244-2780 — All drivers licensed by California to drive 1.2.1 – Interstate or Intrastate Commerce CMVs are non-excepted drivers. CFR, Title 49 §383.71 requires CDL drivers to dis- Important: You may be engaged in interstate com- close the type of commercial operation they are merce even if your vehicle does not leave the state. engaged in: DMV strongly recommends a driver certify a driv- ing type of non-excepted interstate (NI) if you meet Non-Excepted Interstate (NI): Operates or expects the federal qualifications and there is any chance you to operate a CMV in interstate commerce and subject might operate a CMV in interstate commerce. to and meets the qualification requirements under CFR, Title 49 §391. The license does not restrict the transport, origination, or destination of the load to be transported. Interstate commerce means trade, traffic, or transportation in the U.S. that is between: — A place in a state and a place outside such state (including a place outside the U.S.). — Two places in the state through another state or a place outside of the U.S. — Two places in the state as part of trade, traffic, or transportation originating or terminating outside the state or U.S. 1-13 1.3 – CDL Disqualifications 1.3.3 – Serious Traffic Violations 1.3.1 – General Serious traffic violations are excessive speeding (15 miles per hour [mph] or more above the post- You may not drive a CMV if you are disqualified for ed limit), reckless driving, improper or erratic lane any reason. changes, following a vehicle too closely, traffic of- 1.3.2 – Alcohol, Leaving the Scene of an fenses committed in a CMV in connection with fatal Accident, and Commission of a Felony traffic accidents, driving a CMV without obtaining a CDL, or having a CDL in the driver’s possession, It is illegal to operate a CMV if your BAC is.04 and driving a CMV without the proper class of CDL percent or more. If you operate a CMV, you shall be and/or endorsements. deemed to have given your consent to alcohol testing. You will lose your CDL for at least: You will lose your CDL for at least 1 year for a first 60 days for 2 serious traffic violations within a 3 offense for: year period involving a CMV. Driving a CMV if your BAC is.04 percent or 120 days for 3 or more serious traffic violations higher. within a 3 year period involving a CMV. Driving a CMV under the influence of alcohol. 1.3.4 – Violation of Out-of-Service Orders Refusing to undergo blood alcohol testing. Driving a CMV while under the influence of a You will lose your CDL for at least: controlled substance. 90 days for your first violation of an out-of-ser- Leaving the scene of an accident involving a vice order. CMV. 1 year if you have committed 2 violations of an Committing a felony involving the use of a CMV. out-of-service order in a 10 year period. Driving a CMV when the CDL is suspended/ 3 years for 3 or more violations of an out-of- revoked. service order in a 10 year period. Causing a fatality through negligent operation 1.3.5 – Railroad-Highway Grade Crossing of a CMV. Violations You will lose your CDL for at least 3 years if the of- You will lose your CDL for at least: fense occurs while you are operating a CMV that is placarded for HazMat. 60 days for your first violation. You will lose your CDL for life for a second offense. 120 days for your second violation within a 3 year period. You will lose your CDL for life if you use a CMV 1 year for your third violation within a 3 year to commit a felony involving controlled substances. period. You will be put out of service for 24 hours if you have These violations include violation of a federal, state, any detectable amount of alcohol under.04 percent. or local law, or regulation pertaining to one of the following 6 offenses at a railroad-highway grade crossing for: Drivers who are not required to always stop, fail- ing to stop before reaching the crossing if the tracks are not clear. Drivers who are not required to always stop, fail- ing to slow down and check that the tracks are clear of an approaching train. Drivers who are always required to stop, failing to stop before driving onto the crossing. All drivers, failing to have sufficient space to drive completely through the crossing without stopping. 1-14  All drivers, failing to obey a traffic control de- 1.3.8 – Violation Point Counts vice or the directions of an enforcement official Convictions that occur while you are driving a CMV at the crossing. or CDL holder are retained on your driving record All drivers, failing to negotiate a crossing because as listed below: of insufficient undercarriage clearance. Major violations and disqualification actions, 55 1.3.6 – Hazardous Materials Endorsement years. Background Check and Disqualifications Out-of-service violations and disqualification ac- If you require a HazMat endorsement, you will be tions, 15 years. required to submit your fingerprints and be subject Accidents, serious violations, and disqualification to a background check. actions, 10 years. You will be denied or will lose your HazMat endorse- Railroad grade crossings and disqualification ac- ment if you: tions, 4 years. Are not a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. Minor convictions, 3 years. Renounce your U.S. citizenship. A traffic accident for driving unsafely counts as 1 Are wanted or under indictment for certain point. Any accidents you contributed to or were re- felonies. sponsible or at fault for, are normally counted as 1 point. If you are convicted of reckless driving, driving Have a conviction in military or civilian court under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, or hit-and- for certain felonies. run, these violations count as 2 points. Have been adjudicated as lacking mental capac- ity or involuntarily committed to a mental health You will lose your privilege to drive if you are con- facility as specified in CFR, Title 49 §1572.109. sidered a negligent operator of a CMV when your driving record shows the following point counts: Are considered to pose a security threat as deter- mined by the TSA. 4 points in 12 months For more information, visit universalenroll.dhs.gov 6 points in 24 months or call 1-855-347-8371. 8 points in 36 months You may be entitled to a higher point count (6, 8, or 1.3.7 – Traffic Violations in Your Personal 10 points) if you request and appear for a hearing and Vehicle if 4, 6, or 8 points were not obtained in a noncom- The Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act mercial Class C vehicle. (MCSIA) of 1999 requires a CDL holder to be A violation received in a CMV carries 1½ times the disqualified from operating a CMV if the CDL point count. A Class A or B driver who does not have holder has been convicted of certain types of a special certificate or endorsement may be allowed moving violations in their personal vehicle. 2 additional points before being considered a negli- If your privilege to operate your personal vehicle gent operator. is revoked, cancelled, or suspended due to viola- Convictions reported by other states are added to your tions of traffic control laws (other than parking driving record and may result in CDL sanctions. If violations), you will also lose your CDL driving you have an out-of-state CDL, any conviction while privileges. operating in California will be reported to your home If your privilege to operate your personal vehicle state. is revoked, cancelled, or suspended due to alco- hol, controlled substance, or felony violations, Note: When a commercial driver is cited in a non- you will lose your CDL for 1 year. If you are commercial vehicle, the driver may be eligible to convicted of a second violation in your personal attend traffic school (CVC §42005(c)). 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. 1-15 1.3.9 – Violation of Hands-Free or Texting You are not allowed to hold a mobile telephone to Law conduct a voice communication or dial a mobile telephone by pressing more than a single button Regardless of what type of vehicle you are in at the when driving. time of violation, you will lose your CDL for at least: You are not allowed to send or read text mes- 60 days for your second violation of the cell sages while driving. phone hands-free or texting law within a 3 year You must be properly restrained by a safety belt period and receive 1 point on your driving record. at all times while operating a CMV. The safety 120 days for your third and subsequent viola- belt design holds the driver securely behind the tions of the cell phone hands-free or texting law wheel during an accident, helps the driver control within a 3 year period and receive 1 point on the vehicle, and reduces the chance of serious your driving record. injury or death. If you do not wear a safety belt, 1.4 – Other CDL Rules you are 4 times more likely to be fatally injured if you are thrown from the vehicle. Other federal and state rules affect drivers operating 1.4.1 – State Laws and Rules CMVs in all states. You must: All CDL drivers must know the state laws limiting Notify your motor vehicle licensing agency the size and weight of vehicles and loads. All CMVs within 30 days if you are convicted in any other must stop at locations posted for CHP testing and in- jurisdiction of any traffic violation (except park- spection (CVC §§2802–2805, and 2813). ing). This is true no matter what type of vehicle you were driving. Any officer, who has reason to believe a CMV is not Notify your employer within 2 business days if safely loaded or the height, width, length, or weight your license is suspended, revoked, cancelled, or of a vehicle and load is unlawful, is authorized to re- if you are disqualified from driving. quire the driver to stop and submit to an inspection, measurement, or weighing of the vehicle. The officer No one can drive a CMV without a CDL. The may have the driver stop in a suitable area and reload court’s action may involve a fine or require you or remove any part of the load. to serve jail time for breaking this rule. If you have a HazMat endorsement, you must no- Any person driving a CMV over a highway or bridge tify and surrender your HazMat endorsement to the illegally is liable for all damage caused to the high- state that issued your CDL within 24 hours of any way or bridge. When the driver is not the owner of conviction or indictment in any jurisdiction (civil- the vehicle but is operating it with the permission of ian or military) in which you were found not guilty the owner, the owner and driver may both have to by reason of insanity of a disqualifying crime listed pay for the damage. in CFR, Title 49 §1572.103, adjudicated as lack- ing mental capacity, involuntarily committed to a mental health facility as specified in CFR, Title 49 §1572.109, or you renounce your U.S. citizenship. Your employer may not let you drive a CMV if you have more than 1 license or your CDL is suspended or revoked. The court’s action may involve a fine to the employer or require the em- ployer to serve jail time for breaking this rule. All states are connected to one computerized sys- tem to share information about CDL drivers. The states will check drivers’ history records to be sure that drivers do not have more than 1 CDL. 1-16  A driver is disqualified from operating a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) if convicted of any of the following offenses while operating either a COMMERCIAL or NONCOMMERCIAL motor vehicle (non-CMV): 2nd conviction 2nd conviction or or DUI test refusal DUI test refusal in 1st conviction or 1st conv