Commercial driver's license standards; requirements and penalties

TITLE 49--TRANSPORTATION

CHAPTER III--FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

PART 383--COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE STANDARDS; REQUIREMENTS AND PENALTIES
 
Sec. 383.1 Purpose and scope.

(a) The purpose of this part is to help reduce or prevent truck and
bus accidents, fatalities, and injuries by requiring drivers to have a
single commercial motor vehicle driver's license and by disqualifying
drivers who operate commercial motor vehicles in an unsafe manner.

(b) This part:

(1) Prohibits a commercial motor vehicle driver from having more
than one commercial motor vehicle driver's license;

(2) Requires a driver to notify the driver's current employer and
the driver's State of domicile of certain convictions;

(3) Requires that a driver provide previous employment information
when applying for employment as an operator of a commercial motor
vehicle;

(4) Prohibits an employer from allowing a person with a suspended
license to operate a commercial motor vehicle;

(5) Establishes periods of disqualification and penalties for those
persons convicted of certain criminal and other offenses and serious
traffic violations, or subject to any suspensions, revocations, or cancellations of certain
driving privileges;

(6) Establishes testing and licensing requirements for commercial
motor vehicle operators;

(7) Requires States to give knowledge and skills tests to all
qualified applicants for commercial drivers' licenses which meet the
Federal standard;

(8) Sets forth commercial motor vehicle groups and endorsements;

(9) Sets forth the knowledge and skills test requirements for the
motor vehicle groups and endorsements;

(10) Sets forth the Federal standards for procedures, methods, and
minimum passing scores for States and others to use in testing and
licensing commercial motor vehicle operators; and
(11) Establishes requirements for the State issued commercial
license documentation.


Sec. 383.3 Applicability.

(a) The rules in this part apply to every person who operates a
commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in interstate, foreign, or intrastate
commerce, to all employers of such persons, and to all States.

(b) The exceptions contained in Sec. 390.3(f) of this subchapter do
not apply to this part. The employers and drivers identified in
Sec. 390.3(f) must comply with the requirements of this part, unless
otherwise provided in this section.

(c) Exception for certain military drivers. Each State must exempt
from the requirements of this part individuals who operate CMVs for
military purposes. This exception is applicable to active duty military
personnel; members of the military reserves; member of the national
guard on active duty, including personnel on full-time national guard
duty, personnel on part-time national guard training, and national guard
military technicians (civilians who are required to wear military
uniforms); and active duty U.S. Coast Guard personnel. This exception is
not applicable to U.S. Reserve technicians.

(d) Exception for farmers, firefighters, emergency response vehicle
drivers, and drivers removing snow and ice. A State may, at its
discretion, exempt individuals identified in paragraphs (d)(1), (d)(2),
and (d)(3) of this section from the requirements of this part. The use
of this waiver is limited to the driver's home State unless there is a
reciprocity agreement with adjoining States.

(1) Operators of a farm vehicle which is:

(i) Controlled and operated by a farmer, including operation by
employees or family members;

(ii) Used to transport either agricultural products, farm machinery,
farm supplies, or both to or from a farm;

(iii) Not used in the operations of a common or contract motor
carrier; and

(iv) Used within 241 kilometers (150 miles) of the farmer's farm.

(2) Firefighters and other persons who operate CMVs which are
necessary to the preservation of life or property or the execution of
emergency governmental functions, are equipped with audible and visual
signals and are not subject to normal traffic regulation. These vehicles
include fire trucks, hook and ladder trucks, foam or water transport
trucks, police SWAT team vehicles, ambulances, or other vehicles that
are used in response to emergencies.

(3)(i) A driver, employed by an eligible unit of local government,
operating a commercial motor vehicle within the boundaries of that unit
for the purpose of removing snow or ice from a roadway by plowing,
sanding, or salting, if

(A) The properly licensed employee who ordinarily operates a
commercial motor vehicle for these purposes is unable to operate the
vehicle; or

(B) The employing governmental entity determines that a snow or ice
emergency exists that requires additional assistance.

(ii) This exemption shall not preempt State laws and regulations
concerning the safe operation of commercial motor vehicles.

(e) Restricted commercial drivers license (CDL) for certain drivers
in the State of Alaska. (1) The State of Alaska may, at its discretion,
waive only the following requirements of this part and issue a CDL to each driver that meets the conditions set forth in paragraphs (e)

(2) and (3) of this section:

(i) The knowledge tests standards for testing procedures and methods
of subpart H, but must continue to administer knowledge tests that
fulfill the content requirements of subpart G for all applicants;

(ii) All the skills test requirements; and

(iii) The requirement under Sec. 383.153(a)(4) to have a photograph
on the license document.

(2) Drivers of CMVs in the State of Alaska must operate exclusively
over roads that meet both of the following criteria to be eligible for
the exception in paragraph (e)(1) of this section:

(i) Such roads are not connected by land highway or vehicular way to
the land-connected State highway system; and

(ii) Such roads are not connected to any highway or vehicular way
with an average daily traffic volume greater than 499.

(3) Any CDL issued under the terms of this paragraph must carry two
restrictions:

(i) Holders may not operate CMVs over roads other than those
specified in paragraph (e)(2) of this section; and

(ii) The license is not valid for CMV operation outside the State of
Alaska.

(f) Restricted CDL for certain drivers in farm-related service
industries. (1) A State may, at its discretion, waive the required
knowledge and skills tests of subpart H of this part and issue
restricted CDLs to employees of these designated farm-related service
industries:

(i) Agri-chemical businesses;

(ii) Custom harvesters;

(iii) Farm retail outlets and suppliers;

(iv) Livestock feeders.

(2) A restricted CDL issued pursuant to this paragraph shall meet
all the requirements of this part, except subpart H of this part. A
restricted CDL issued pursuant to this paragraph shall be accorded the
same reciprocity as a CDL meeting all of the requirements of this part.
The restrictions imposed upon the issuance of this restricted CDL shall
not limit a person's use of the CDL in a non-CMV during either validated
or non-validated periods, nor shall the CDL affect a State's power to
administer its driver licensing program for operators of vehicles other
than CMVs.

(3) A State issuing a CDL under the terms of this paragraph must
restrict issuance as follows:

(i) Applicants must have a good driving record as defined in this
paragraph. Drivers who have not held any motor vehicle operator's
license for at least one year shall not be eligible for this CDL.
Drivers who have between one and two years of driving experience must
demonstrate a good driving record for their entire driving history.
Drivers with more than two years of driving experience must have a good
driving record for the two most recent years. For the purposes of this
paragraph, the term good driving record means that an applicant:

(A) Has not had more than one license (except in the instances
specified in Sec. 383.21);

(B) Has not had any license suspended, revoked, or canceled;

(C) Has not had any conviction for any type of motor vehicle for the
disqualifying offenses contained in Sec. 383.51(b);

(D) Has not had any conviction for any type of motor vehicle for
serious traffic violations; and

(E) Has not had any conviction for a violation of State or local law
relating to motor vehicle traffic control (other than a parking
violation) arising in connection with any traffic accident, and has no
record of an accident in which he/she was at fault.

(ii) Restricted CDLs shall have the same renewal cycle as
unrestricted CDLs, but shall be limited to the seasonal period or
periods as defined by the State of licensure, provided that the total
number of calendar days in any 12-month period for which the restricted
CDL is valid does not exceed 180. If a State elects to provide for more
than one seasonal period, the restricted CDL is valid for commercial
motor vehicle operation only during the currently approved season, and
must be revalidated for each successive season. Only one seasonal period
of validity may appear on the license document at a time. The good
driving record must be confirmed prior to any renewal or revalidation.

(iii) Restricted CDL holders are limited to operating Group B and C
vehicles, as described in subpart F of this part.

(iv) Restricted CDLs shall not be issued with any endorsements on
the license document. Only the limited tank vehicle and hazardous
materials endorsement privileges that the restricted CDL automatically
confers and are described in paragraph (f)(3)(v) of this section are
permitted.

(v) Restricted CDL holders may not drive vehicles carrying any
placardable quantities of hazardous materials, except for diesel fuel in
quantities of 3,785 liters (1,000 gallons) or less; liquid fertilizers
(i.e., plant nutrients) in vehicles or implements of husbandry in total
quantities of 11,355 liters (3,000 gallons) or less; and solid
fertilizers (i.e., solid plant nutrients) that are not transported with
any organic substance.

(vi) Restricted CDL holders may not hold an unrestricted CDL at the
same time.

(vii) Restricted CDL holders may not operate a commercial motor
vehicle beyond 241 kilometers (150 miles) from the place of business or
the farm currently being served.

(g) Restricted CDL for certain drivers in the pyrotechnic industry.

(1) A State may, at its discretion, waive the required hazardous
materials knowledge tests of subpart H of this part and issue restricted
CDLs to part-time drivers operating commercial motor vehicles
transporting less than 227 kilograms (500 pounds) of fireworks
classified as DOT Class 1.3G explosives.

(2) A State issuing a CDL under the terms of this paragraph must
restrict issuance as follows:

(i) The GVWR of the vehicle to be operated must be less than 4,537
kilograms (10,001 pounds);

(ii) If a State believes, at its discretion, that the training
required by Sec. 172.704 of this title adequately prepares part-time
drivers meeting the other requirements of this paragraph to deal with
fireworks and the other potential dangers posed by fireworks
transportation and use, the State may waive the hazardous materials
knowledge tests of subpart H of this part. The State may impose any
requirements it believes is necessary to ensure itself that a driver is
properly trained pursuant to Sec. 172.704 of this title.

(iii) A restricted CDL document issued pursuant to this paragraph
shall have a statement clearly imprinted on the face of the document
that is substantially similar as follows: ``For use as a CDL only during
the period from June 30 through July 6 for purposes of transporting less
than 227 kilograms (500 pounds) of fireworks classified as DOT Class
1.3G explosives in a vehicle with a GVWR of less than 4,537 kilograms
(10,001 pounds).

(3) A restricted CDL issued pursuant to this paragraph shall meet
all the requirements of this part, except those specifically identified.
A restricted CDL issued pursuant to this paragraph shall be accorded the
same reciprocity as a CDL meeting all of the requirements of this part.
The restrictions imposed upon the issuance of this restricted CDL shall
not limit a person's use of the CDL in a non-CMV during either validated
or non-validated periods, nor shall the CDL affect a State's power to
administer its driver licensing program for operators of vehicles other
than CMVs.

(4) Restricted CDLs shall have the same renewal cycle as
unrestricted CDLs, but shall be limited to the seasonal period of June
30 through July 6 of each year or a lesser period as defined by the
State of licensure.

(5) Persons who operate commercial motor vehicles during the period
from July 7 through June 29 for purposes of transporting less than 227
kilograms (500 pounds) of fireworks classified as DOT Class 1.3G
explosives in a vehicle with a GVWR of less than 4,537 kilograms (10,001
pounds) and who also operate such vehicles for the same purposes during
the period June 30 through July 6 shall not be issued a restricted CDL
pursuant to this paragraph.


Sec. 383.5 Definitions.

As used in this part:

Administrator means the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrator,
the chief executive of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration,
an agency within the Department of Transportation.

Alcohol or alcoholic beverage means: (a) Beer as defined in 26
U.S.C. 5052(a), of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, (b) wine of not
less than one-half of one per centum of alcohol by volume, or (c)
distilled spirits as defined in section 5002(a)(8), of such Code.
Alcohol concentration (AC) means the concentration of alcohol in a
person's blood or breath. When expressed as a percentage it means grams
of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood or grams of alcohol per 210
liters of breath.

Alien means any person not a citizen or national of the United
States.

Commerce means (a) any trade, traffic or transportation within the
jurisdiction of the United States between a place in a State and a place
outside of such State, including a place outside of the United States
and (b) trade, traffic, and transportation in the United States which
affects any trade, traffic, and transportation described in paragraph
(a) of this definition.

Commercial driver's license (CDL) means a license issued by a State
or other jurisdiction, in accordance with the standards contained in 49
CFR part 383, to an individual which authorizes the individual to
operate a class of a commercial motor vehicle.

Commercial driver's license information system (CDLIS) means the
CDLIS established by FMCSA pursuant to section 12007 of the Commercial
Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986.

Commercial motor vehicle (CMV) means a motor vehicle or combination
of motor vehicles used in commerce to transport passengers or property
if the motor vehicle--

(a) Has a gross combination weight rating of 11,794 kilograms or
more (26,001 pounds or more) inclusive of a towed unit(s) with a gross
vehicle weight rating of more than 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds); or

(b) Has a gross vehicle weight rating of 11,794 or more kilograms
(26,001 pounds or more); or

(c) Is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the
driver; or

(d) Is of any size and is used in the transportation of hazardous
materials as defined in this section.

Controlled substance has the meaning such term has under 21 U.S.C.
802(6) and includes all substances listed on schedules I through V of 21
CFR 1308 (Secs. 1308.11 through 1308.15), as they may be amended by the
United States Department of Justice.

Conviction means an unvacated adjudication of guilt, or a
determination that a person has violated or failed to comply with the
law in a court of original jurisdiction or by an authorized
administrative tribunal, an unvacated forfeiture of bail or collateral
deposited to secure the person's appearance in court, a plea of guilty
or nolo contendere accepted by the court, the payment of a fine or court
cost, or violation of a condition of release without bail, regardless of
whether or not the penalty is rebated, suspended, or probated.''
Disqualification means any of the following three actions:

(a) The suspension, revocation, or cancellation of a CDL by the
State or jurisdiction of issuance.

(b) Any withdrawal of a person's privileges to drive a CMV by a
State or other jurisdiction as the result of a violation of State or
local law relating to motor vehicle traffic control (other than parking,
vehicle weight or vehicle defect violations).

(c) A determination by the FMCSA that a person is not qualified to
operate a commercial motor vehicle under part 391 of this chapter.
Driver applicant means an individual who applies to a State to
obtain, transfer, upgrade, or renew a CDL.

Driver's license means a license issued by a State or other
jurisdiction, to an individual which authorizes the individual to
operate a motor vehicle on the highways.

Driving a commercial motor vehicle while under the influence of
alcohol means committing any one or more of the following acts in a CMV-

(a) Driving a CMV while the person's alcohol concentration is 0.04
or more;

(b) Driving under the influence of alcohol, as prescribed by State
law; or

(c) Refusal to undergo such testing as is required by any State or
jurisdiction in the enforcement of Sec. 383.51(b) or Sec. 392.5(a)(2) of
this subchapter.

Eligible unit of local government means a city, town, borough,
county, parish, district, or other public body created by or pursuant to
State law which has a total population of 3,000 individuals or less.
Employee means any operator of a commercial motor vehicle, including
full time, regularly employed drivers; casual, intermittent or
occasional drivers; leased drivers and independent, owner-operator
contractors (while in the course of operating a commercial motor
vehicle) who are either directly employed by or under lease to an
employer.

Employer means any person (including the United States, a State,
District of Columbia or a political subdivision of a State) who owns or
leases a commercial motor vehicle or assigns employees to operate such a
vehicle.

Endorsement means an authorization to an individual's CDL required
to permit the individual to operate certain types of commercial motor
vehicles.

Fatality means the death of a person as a result of a motor vehicle
accident.

Felony means an offense under State or Federal law that is
punishable by death or imprisonment for a term exceeding 1 year.
Foreign means outside the fifty United States and the District of
Columbia.

Gross combination weight rating (GCWR) means the value specified by
the manufacturer as the loaded weight of a combination (articulated)
vehicle. In the absence of a value specified by the manufacturer, GCWR
will be determined by adding the GVWR of the power unit and the total
weight of the towed unit and any load thereon.

Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) means the value specified by the
manufacturer as the loaded weight of a single vehicle.
Hazardous materials means 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 in 42 CFR part 73.

Imminent hazard means the existence of a condition that presents a
substantial likelihood that death, serious illness, severe personal
injury, or a substantial endangerment to health, property, or the
environment may occur before the reasonably foreseeable completion date
of a formal proceeding begun to lessen the risk of that death, illness,
injury or endangerment.

Motor vehicle means a vehicle, machine, tractor, trailer, or
semitrailer propelled or drawn by mechanical power used on highways,
except that such term does not include a vehicle, machine, tractor,
trailer, semitrailer operated exclusively on a rail.

Nonresident CDL means a CDL issued by a State under either of the
following two conditions:

(a) To an individual domiciled in a foreign country meeting the
requirements of Sec. 383.23(b)(1).

(b) To an individual domiciled in another State meeting the
requirements of Sec. 383.23(b)(2).

Non-CMV means a motor vehicle or combination of motor vehicles not
defined by the term ``commercial motor vehicle (CMV)'' in this section.
Out-of-service order means a declaration by an authorized
enforcement officer of a Federal, State, Canadian, Mexican, or local
jurisdiction that a driver, a commercial motor vehicle, or a motor
carrier operation, is out-of-service pursuant to Secs. 386.72, 392.5,
395.13, 396.9, or compatible laws, or the North American Uniform Out-of-
Service Criteria.

Representative vehicle means a motor vehicle which represents the
type of motor vehicle that a driver applicant operates or expects to
operate.

School bus means a CMV used to transport pre-primary, primary, or
secondary school students from home to school, from school to home, or
to and from school-sponsored events. School bus does not include a bus
used as a common carrier.

Serious traffic violation means conviction of any of the following
offenses when operating a CMV, except weight, defect and parking
violations:

(a) Excessive speeding, involving any single offense for any speed
of 15 miles per hour or more above the posted speed limit;

(b) Reckless driving, as defined by State or local law or
regulation, including but not limited to offenses of driving a CMV in
willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property;

(c) Improper or erratic traffic lane changes;

(d) Following the vehicle ahead too closely;

(e) A violation, arising in connection with a fatal accident, of
State or local law relating to motor vehicle traffic control;

(f) Driving a CMV without obtaining a CDL;

(g) Driving a CMV without a CDL in the driver's possession. Any
individual who provides proof to the enforcement authority that issued
the citation, by the date the individual must appear in court or pay any
fine for such a violation, that the individual held a valid CDL on the
date the citation was issued, shall not be guilty of this offense; or

(h) Driving a CMV without the proper class of CDL and/or
endorsements for the specific vehicle group being operated or for the
passengers or type of cargo being transported.
State means a State of the United States and the District of
Columbia.

State of domicile means that State where a person has his/her true,
fixed, and permanent home and principal residence and to which he/she
has the intention of returning whenever he/she is absent.

Tank vehicle means any commercial motor vehicle that is designed to
transport any liquid or gaseous materials within a tank that is either
permanently or temporarily attached to the vehicle or the chassis. Such
vehicles include, but are not limited to, cargo tanks and portable
tanks, as defined in part 171 of this title. However, this definition
does not include portable tanks having a rated capacity under 1,000
gallons.

United States the term United States means the 50 States and the
District of Columbia.

Vehicle means a motor vehicle unless otherwise specified.
Vehicle group means a class or type of vehicle with certain
operating characteristics.


Sec. 383.7 Validity of CDL issued by decertified State.

A CDL issued by a State prior to the date the State is notified by
the Administrator, in accordance with the provisions of Sec. 384.405 of
this subchapter, that the State is prohibited from issuing CDLs, will
remain valid until its stated expiration date.


Sec. 383.21 Number of drivers' licenses.

No person who operates a commercial motor vehicle shall at any time
have more than one driver's license.


Sec. 383.23 Commercial driver's license.

(a) General rule. (1) Effective April 1, 1992, no person shall
operate a commercial motor vehicle unless such person has taken and
passed written and driving tests which meet the Federal standards
contained in subparts F, G, and H of this part for the commercial motor
vehicle that person operates or expects to operate.

(2) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, no person
may legally operate a CMV unless such person possesses a CDL which meets
the standards contained in subpart J of this part, issued by his/her
State or jurisdiction of domicile.

(b) Exception. (1) If a CMV operator is not domiciled in a foreign
jurisdiction which the Administrator has determined tests drivers and
issues CDLs in accordance with, or under standards similar to, the
standards contained in subparts F, G, and H of this part, the person may
obtain a Nonresident CDL from a State which does comply with the testing
and licensing standards contained in such subparts F, G, and H of this part.\1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

\1\ Effective December 29, 1988, the Administrator determined that
commercial drivers' licensees issued by Canadian Provinces and
Territories in conformity with the Canadian National Safety Code are in
accordance with the standards of this part. Effective November 21, 1991,
the Administrator determined that the new Licencias Federales de
Conductor issued by the United Mexican States are in accordance with the
standards of this part. Therefore, under the single license provision of
Sec. 383.21, a driver holding a commercial driver's license issued under
the Canadian National Safety Code or a new Licencia Federal de Conductor
issued by Mexico is prohibited from obtaining nonresident CDL, or any
other type of driver's license, from a State or other jurisdiction in
the United States.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

(2) If an individual is domiciled in a State while that State is
prohibited from issuing CDLs in accordance with Sec. 384.405 of this
subchapter, that individual is eligible to obtain a Nonresident CDL from
any State that elects to issue a Nonresident CDL and which complies with
the testing and licensing standards contained in subparts F, G, and H of
this part.

(c) Learner's permit. State learners' permits, issued for limited
time periods according to State requirements, shall be considered valid
commercial drivers' licenses for purposes of behind-the-wheel training
on public roads or highways, if the following minimum conditions are
met:

(1) The learner's permit holder is at all times accompanied by the
holder of a valid CDL;

(2) He/she either holds a valid automobile driver's license, or has
passed such vision, sign/symbol, and knowledge tests as the State
issuing the learner's permit ordinarily administers to applicants for
automotive drivers' licenses; and

(3) He/she does not operate a commercial motor vehicle transporting
hazardous materials as defined in Sec. 383.5.


Sec. 383.31 Notification of convictions for driver violations.

(a) Each person who operates a commercial motor vehicle, who has a
commercial driver's license issued by a State or jurisdiction, and who
is convicted of violating, in any type of motor vehicle, a State or
local law relating to motor vehicle traffic control (other than a
parking violation) in a State or jurisdiction other than the one which
issued his/her license, shall notify an official designated by the State
or jurisdiction which issued such license, of such conviction. The
notification must be made within 30 days after the date that the person
has been convicted.

(b) Each person who operates a commercial motor vehicle, who has a
commercial driver's license issued by a State or jurisdiction, and who
is convicted of violating, in any type of motor vehicle, a State or
local law relating to motor vehicle traffic control (other than a
parking violation), shall notify his/her current employer of such
conviction. The notification must be made within 30 days after the date
that the person has been convicted. If the driver is not currently
employed, he/she must notify the State or jurisdiction which issued the
license according to Sec. 383.31(a).

(c) Notification. The notification to the State official and
employer must be made in writing and contain the following information:
(1) Driver's full name;
(2) Driver's license number;
(3) Date of conviction;
(4) The specific criminal or other offense(s), serious traffic
violation(s), and other violation(s) of State or local law relating to
motor vehicle traffic control, for which the person was convicted and
any suspension, revocation, or cancellation of certain driving
privileges which resulted from such conviction(s);
(5) Indication whether the violation was in a commercial motor
vehicle;
(6) Location of offense; and
(7) Driver's signature.


Sec. 383.33 Notification of driver's license suspensions.

Each employee who has a driver's license suspended, revoked, or
canceled by a State or jurisdiction, who loses the right to operate a
commercial motor vehicle in a State or jurisdiction for any period, or
who is disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle for any
period, shall notify his/her current employer of such suspension,
revocation, cancellation, lost privilege, or disqualification. The
notification must be made before the end of the business day following
the day the employee received notice of the suspension, revocation,
cancellation, lost privilege, or disqualification.


Sec. 383.35 Notification of previous employment.

(a) Any person applying for employment as an operator of a
commercial motor vehicle shall provide at the time of application for
employment, the information specified in paragraph (c) of this section.

(b) All employers shall request the information specified in
paragraph (c) of this section from all persons applying for employment
as a commercial motor vehicle operator. The request shall be made at the
time of application for employment.

(c) The following employment history information for the 10 years
preceding the date the application is submitted shall be presented to
the prospective employer by the applicant:
(1) A list of the names and addresses of the applicant's previous
employers for which the applicant was an operator of a commercial motor
vehicle;
(2) The dates the applicant was employed by these employers; and
(3) The reason for leaving such employment.

(d) The applicant shall certify that all information furnished is
true and complete.

(e) An employer may require an applicant to provide additional
information.

(f) Before an application is submitted, the employer shall inform
the applicant that the information he/she provides in accordance with
paragraph (c) of this section may be used, and the applicant's previous
employers may be contacted for the purpose of investigating the
applicant's work history.


Sec. 383.37 Employer responsibilities.

No employer may knowingly allow, require, permit, or authorize a
driver to operate a CMV in the United States:

(a) During any period in which the driver has a CMV driver's license
suspended, revoked, or canceled by a State, has lost the right to
operate a CMV in a State, or has been disqualified from operating a CMV;

(b) During any period in which the driver has more than one CMV
driver's license;

(c) During any period in which the driver, or the CMV he or she is
driving, or the motor carrier operation, is subject to an out-of-service
order; or

(d) In violation of a Federal, State, or local law or regulation
pertaining to railroad-highway grade crossings.


Sec. 383.51 Disqualification of drivers.

(a) General. (1) A driver or holder of a CDL who is disqualified
must not drive a CMV.

(2) An employer must not knowingly allow, require, permit, or
authorize a driver who is disqualified to drive a CMV.

(3) A driver is subject to disqualification sanctions designated in
paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, if the holder of a CDL drives a
CMV or non-CMV and is convicted of the violations.

(4) Determining first and subsequent violations. For purposes of
determining first and subsequent violations of the offenses specified in
this subpart, each conviction for any offense listed in Tables 1 through
4 to this section resulting from a separate incident, whether committed
in a CMV or non-CMV, must be counted.

(5) Reinstatement after lifetime disqualification. A State may
reinstate any driver disqualified for life for offenses described in paragraphs
(b)(1) through (b)(8) of this section (Table 1 to Sec. 383.51) after 10
years if that person has voluntarily entered and successfully completed
an appropriate rehabilitation program approved by the State. Any person
who has been reinstated in accordance with this provision and who is
subsequently convicted of a disqualifying offense described in
paragraphs (b)(1) through (b)(8) of this section (Table 1 to
Sec. 383.51) must not be reinstated.

(b) Disqualification for major offenses. Table 1 to Sec. 383.51
contains a list of the offenses and periods for which a driver must be
disqualified, depending upon the type of vehicle the driver is operating
at the time of the violation, as follows:

See Chart (PDF)

Sec. 383.52 Disqualification of drivers determined to constitute an imminent hazard.

(a) The Assistant Administrator or his/her designee must disqualify
from operating a CMV any driver whose driving is determined to
constitute an imminent hazard, as defined in Sec. 383.5.

(b) The period of the disqualification may not exceed 30 days unless
the FMCSA complies with the provisions of paragraph (c) of this section.

(c) The Assistant Administrator or his/her delegate may provide the
driver an opportunity for a hearing after issuing a disqualification for
a period of 30 days or less. The Assistant Administrator or his/her
delegate must provide the driver notice of a proposed disqualification
period of more than 30 days and an opportunity for a hearing to present
a defense to the proposed disqualification. A disqualification imposed
under this paragraph may not exceed one year in duration. The driver, or
a representative on his/her behalf, may file an appeal of the
disqualification issued by the Assistant Administrator's delegate with
the Assistant Administrator, Adjudications Counsel, Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Administration (Room 8217), 400 Seventh Street, SW.,
Washington, DC 20590.

(d) Any disqualification imposed in accordance with the provisions
of this section must be transmitted by the FMCSA to the jurisdiction
where the driver is licensed and must become a part of the driver's
record maintained by that jurisdiction.

(e) A driver who is simultaneously disqualified under this section
and under other provisions of this subpart, or under State law or
regulation, shall serve those disqualification periods concurrently.


Sec. 383.53 Penalties.

(a) General rule. Any person who violates the rules set forth in
subparts B and C of this part may be subject to civil or criminal
penalties as provided for in 49 U.S.C. 521(b).

(b) Special penalties pertaining to violation of out-of-service
orders--

(b) Special penalties pertaining to violation of out-of-service
orders--(1) Driver violations. A driver who is convicted of violating an
out-of-service order shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less
than $1,100 nor more than $2,750, in addition to disqualification under
Sec. 383.51(e).

(2) Employer violations. An employer who is convicted of a violation
of Sec. 383.37(c) shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than
$2,750 nor more than $11,000.

(c) Special penalties pertaining to railroad-highway grade crossing
violations. An employer who is convicted of a violation of
Sec. 383.37(d) must be subject to a civil penalty of not more than
$10,000.


Sec. 383.71  Driver application procedures.
Source: 53 FR 27649, July 21, 1988, unless otherwise noted.

    (a) Initial Commercial Driver's License. Prior to obtaining a CDL, a
person must meet the following requirements:

    (1) A person who operates or expects to operate in interstate or
foreign commerce, or is otherwise subject to part 391 of this title,
shall certify that he/she meets the qualification requirements contained
in part 391 of this title. A person who operates or expects to operate
entirely in intrastate commerce and is not subject to part 391, is
subject to State driver qualification requirements and must certify that
he/she is not subject to part 391;

    (2) Pass a knowledge test in accordance with the standards contained
in subparts G and H of this part for the type of motor vehicle the
person operates or expects to operate;

    (3) Pass a driving or skills test in accordance with the standards
contained in subparts G and H of this part taken in a motor vehicle
which is representative of the type of motor vehicle the person operates
or expects to operate; or provide evidence that he/she has successfully
passed a driving test administered by an authorized third party;

    (4) Certify that the motor vehicle in which the person takes the
driving skills test is representative of the type of motor vehicle that
person operates or expects to operate;

    (5) Provide to the State of issuance the information required to be
included on the CDL as specified in subpart J of this part;

    (6) Certify that he/she is not subject to any disqualification under
Sec. 383.51, or any license suspension, revocation, or cancellation
under State law, and that he/she does not have a driver's license from
more than one State or jurisdiction;

    (7) Surrender the applicant's non-CDL driver's licenses to the
State; and

    (8) Provide the names of all States where the applicant has
previously been licensed to drive any type of motor vehicle during the
previous 10 years.

    (9) If applying for a hazardous materials endorsement, comply with
Transportation Security Administration requirements codified in 49 CFR
Part 1572, and provide proof of citizenship or immigration status as
specified in Table 1 to this section. A lawful permanent resident of the
United States requesting a hazardous materials endorsement must
additionally provide his or her Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration
Services (BCIS) Alien registration number.

Table 1 to Sec.  383.71--List of Acceptable Proofs of Citizenship or Immigration
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                 Status                           Proof of status
------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Citizen............................  [sbull] U.S. Passport
                                          [sbull] Certificate of birth
                                           that bears an official seal
                                           and was issued by a State,
                                           county, municipal authority,
                                           or outlying possession of the
                                           United States
                                          [sbull] Certification of Birth
                                           Abroad issued by the U.S.
                                           Department of State (Form FS-
                                           545 or DS 1350)
                                          [sbull] Certificate of
                                           Naturalization (Form N-550 or
                                           N-570)
                                          [sbull] Certificate of U.S.
                                           Citizenship (Form N-560 or N-
                                           561)
Lawful Permanent Resident...............  [sbull] Permanent Resident
                                           Card, Alien Registration
                                           Receipt Card (Form I-551)
                                          [sbull] Temporary I-551 stamp
                                           in foreign passport
                                          [sbull] Temporary I-551 stamp
                                           on Form I-94, Arrival/
                                           Departure Record, with
                                           photograph of the bearer
                                          [sbull] Reentry Permit (Form I-
                                           327)
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (b) License transfer. When applying to transfer a CDL from one State
of domicile to a new State domicile, an applicant shall apply for a CDL
from the new State of domicile within no more than 30 days after
establishing his/her new domicile. The applicant shall:

    (1) Provide to the new State of domicile the certifications
contained in Sec. 383.71(a) (1) and (6):

    (2) Provide to the new State of domicile updated information as
specified in subpart J of this part;

    (3) If the applicant wishes to retain a hazardous materials
endorsement, he/she must comply with the requirements for such
endorsement specified in Sec. 383.71(a)(9) and State requirements as
specified in Sec. 383.73(b)(4);

    (4) Surrender the CDL from the old State of domicile to the new
State of domicile; and

    (5) Provide the names of all States where the applicant has
previously been licensed to drive any type of motor vehicle during the
previous 10 years.

    (c) License renewal. When applying for a renewal of a CDL, all
applicants shall:

    (1) Provide certification contained in Sec. 383.71(a)(1);

    (2) Provide update information as specified in subpart J of this
part; and

    (3) If a person wishes to retain a hazardous materials endorsement,
he/she must comply with the requirements specified in Sec. 383.71(a)(9)
and pass the test specified in Sec. 383.121 for such endorsement.

    (4) Provide the names of all States where the applicant has
previously been licensed to drive any type of motor vehicle during the
previous 10 years.

    (d) License upgrades. When applying to operate a commercial motor
vehicle in a different group or endorsement from the group or
endorsement in which the applicant already has a CDL, all persons shall:

    (1) Provide the necessary certifications as specified in
Sec. 383.71(a)(1) and (a)(4);

    (2) Pass all tests specified in Sec. 383.71(a)(2) and (a)(3) for the
new vehicle group and/or different endorsements; and

    (3) To obtain a hazardous materials endorsement, comply with the
requirements for such endorsement specified in Sec. 383.71(a)(9).

    (e) Nonresident CDL. When an applicant is domiciled in a foreign
jurisdiction, as defined in Sec. 383.5, where the commercial motor
vehicle operator testing and licensing standards do not meet the
standards contained in subparts G and H of this part, as determined by
the Administrator, such applicant shall obtain a Nonresident CDL from a
State which meets such standards. Such applicant shall:

    (1) Complete the requirements to obtain a CDL contained in
Sec. 383.71(a); and

    (2) After receipt of the CDL, and for as long as it is valid, notify
the State which issued the CDL of any adverse action taken by any
jurisdiction or governmental agency, foreign or domestic, against his/
her driving privileges. Such adverse actions would include but not be
limited to license suspension or revocation, or disqualification from
operating a commercial motor vehicle for the convictions described in
Sec. 383.51. Notifications shall be made within the time periods
specified in Sec. 383.33.

    (f) If a State uses the alternative method described in
Sec. 383.73(i) to achieve the objectives of the certifications in
Sec. 383.71(a), then the driver applicant shall satisfy such alternative
methods as are applicable to him/her with respect to initial licensing,
license transfer, license renewal, and license upgrades.


Sec. 383.72 Implied consent to alcohol testing.

Any person who holds a CDL is considered to have consented to such
testing as is required by any State or jurisdiction in the enforcement
of Sec. Sec. 383.51(b)(2)(i) and 392.5(a)(2) of this chapter. Consent is
implied by driving a commercial motor vehicle.


Sec. 383.73 State procedures.

(a) Initial licensure. Prior to issuing a CDL to a person, a State
shall:

(1) Require the driver applicant to certify, pass tests, and provide
information as described in Secs. 383.71(a) (1) through (6);

(2) Check that the vehicle in which the applicant takes his/her test
is representative of the vehicle group the applicant has certified that
he/she operates or expects to operate;

(3) Initiate and complete a check of the applicant's driving record
to ensure that the person is not subject to any disqualification under
Sec. 383.51, or any license suspension, revocation, or cancellation
under State law, and that the person does not have a driver's license
from more than one State or jurisdiction. The record check must include,
but is not limited to, the following:

(i) A check of the applicant's driving record as maintained by his/
her current State of licensure, if any;

(ii) A check with the CDLIS to determine whether the driver
applicant already has been issued a CDL, whether the applicant's license
has been suspended, revoked, or canceled, or if the applicant has been
disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle;

(iii) A check with the National Driver Register (NDR) to determine
whether the driver applicant has:

(A) Been disqualified from operating a motor vehicle (other than a
commercial motor vehicle);

(B) Had a license (other than CDL) suspended, revoked, or canceled
for cause in the 3-year period ending on the date of application; or

(C) Been convicted of any offenses contained in section 205(a)(3) of
the National Driver Register Act of 1982 (23 U.S.C. 401 note); and
(iv) A request for the applicant's complete driving record from all
States where the applicant was previously licensed over the last 10
years to drive any type of motor vehicle. Exception: A State is only
required to make the driving record check specified in this paragraph
(a)(3) for drivers renewing a CDL for the first time after September 30,
2002, provided a notation is made on the driver's record confirming that
the driver record check required by this paragraph (a)(3) has been made
and noting the date it was done; and

(4) Require the driver applicant to surrender his/her driver's
license issued by another State, if he/she has moved from another State.
(5) For persons applying for a hazardous materials endorsement,
require compliance with the standards for such endorsement specified in
Sec. 383.71(a)(9).

(b) License transfers. Prior to issuing a CDL to a person who has a
CDL from another State, a State shall:

(1) Require the driver applicant to make the certifications
contained in Sec. 383.71(a);

(2) Complete a check of the driver applicant's record as contained
in Sec. 383.73(a)(3);

(3) Request and receive updates of information specified in subpart
J of this part;

(4) If such applicant wishes to retain a hazardous materials
endorsement, require compliance with standards for such endorsement
specified in Sec. 383.71(a)(9) and ensure that the driver has, within
the 2 years preceding the transfer, either:
(i) Passed the test for such endorsement specified in Sec. 383.121;
or (ii) Successfully completed a hazardous materials test or training
that is given by a third party and that is deemed by the State to
substantially cover the same knowledge base as that described in
Sec. 383.121; and

(5) Obtain the CDL issued by the applicant's previous State of
domicile.

(c) License Renewals. Prior to renewing any CDL a State shall:

(1) Require the driver applicant to make the certifications
contained in Sec. 383.71(a);

(2) Complete a check of the driver applicant's record as contained
in Sec. 383.73(a)(3);

(3) Request and receive updates of information specified in subpart
J of this part; and

(4) If such applicant wishes to retain a hazardous materials
endorsement, require the driver to pass the test specified in
Sec. 383.121 and comply with the standards specified in
Sec. 383.71(a)(9) for such endorsement.
(d) License upgrades. Prior to issuing an upgrade of a CDL, a State
shall:

(1) Require such driver applicant to provide certifications, pass
tests, and meet applicable hazardous materials standards specified in
Sec. 383.71(d); and

(2) Complete a check of the driver applicant's record as described
in Sec. 383.73(a)(3).

(e) Nonresident CDL. A State may issue a Nonresident CDL to a person
domiciled in a foreign country if the Administrator has determined that
the commercial motor vehicle testing and licensing standards in the
foreign jurisdiction of domicile do not meet the standards contained in
this part. State procedures for the issuance of a nonresident CDL, for
any modifications thereto, and for notifications to the CDLIS shall at a
minimum be identical to those pertaining to any other CDL, with the
following exceptions:

(1) If the applicant is requesting a transfer of his/her Nonresident
CDL, the State shall obtain the Nonresident CDL currently held by the
applicant and issued by another State;

(2) The State shall add the word ``Nonresident'' to the face of the
CDL, in accordance with Sec. 383.153(b); and

(3) The State shall have established, prior to issuing any
Nonresident CDL, the practical capability of disqualifying the holder of
any Nonresident CDL, by withdrawing, suspending, canceling, and revoking
his/her Nonresident CDL as if the Nonresident CDL were a CDL issued to a
resident of the State.

(f) License issuance. After the State has completed the procedures
described in Sec. 383.73 (a), (b), (c), (d) or (e), it may issue a CDL
to the driver applicant. The State shall notify the operator of the
CDLIS of such issuance, transfer, renewal, or upgrade within the 10-day
period beginning on the date of license issuance.

(g) Penalties for false information. If a State determines, in its
check of an applicant's license status and record prior to issuing a
CDL, or at any time after the CDL is issued, that the applicant has
falsified information contained in subpart J of this part or any of the
certifications required in Sec. 383.71(a), the State shall at a minimum
suspend, cancel, or revoke the person's CDL or his/her pending
application, or disqualify the person from operating a commercial motor
vehicle for a period of at least 60 consecutive days.

(h) Reciprocity. A State shall allow any person who has a valid CDL
which is not suspended, revoked, or canceled, and who is not
disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle, to operate a
commercial motor vehicle in the State.

(i) Alternative procedures. A State may implement alternative
procedures to the certification requirements of Sec. 383.71(a) (1), (4),
and (6), provided those procedures ensure that the driver meets the
requirements of those paragraphs.


Sec. 383.75 Third party testing.

(a) Third party tests. A State may authorize a person (including
another State, an employer, a private driver training facility or other
private institution, or a department, agency or instrumentality of a
local government) to administer the skills tests as specified in
subparts G and H of this part, if the following conditions are met:

(1) The tests given by the third party are the same as those which
would otherwise be given by the State; and

(2) The third party as an agreement with the State containing, at a
minimum, provisions that:

(i) Allow the FMCSA, or its representative, and the State to conduct
random examinations, inspections and audits without prior notice;

(ii) Require the State to conduct on-site inspections at least
annually;

(iii) Require that all third party examiners meet the same
qualification and training standards as State examiners, to the extent
necessary to conduct skills tests in compliance with subparts G and H;

(iv) Require that, at least on an annual basis, State employees take
the tests actually administered by the third party as if the State
employee were a test applicant, or that States test a sample of drivers
who were examined by the third party to compare pass/fail results; and

(v) Reserve unto the State the right to take prompt and appropriate
remedial action against the third-party testers in the event that the
third-party fails to comply with State or Federal standards for the CDL
testing program, or with any other terms of the third-party contract.

(b) Proof of testing by a third party. A driver applicant who takes
and passes driving tests administered by an authorized third party shall
provide evidence to the State licensing agency that he/she has
successfully passed the driving tests administered by the third party.


Sec. 383.77 Substitute for driving skills tests.

At the discretion of a State, the driving skill test as specified in
Sec. 383.113 may be waived for a CMV operator who is currently licensed
at the time of his/her application for a CDL, and substituted with
either an applicant's driving record and previous passage of an
acceptable skills test, or an applicant's driving record in combination
with certain driving experience. The State shall impose conditions and
limitations to restrict the applicants from whom a State may accept
alternative requirements for the skills test described in Sec. 383.113.
Such conditions must require at least the following:

(a) An applicant must certify that, during the two-year period
immediately prior to applying for a CDL, he/she:

(1) Has not had more than one license (except in the instances
specified in Sec. 383.21(b));

(2) Has not had any license suspended, revoked, or canceled;

(3) Has not had any convictions for any type of motor vehicle for
the disqualifying offenses contained in Sec. 383.51(b);

(4) Has not had more than one conviction for any type of motor
vehicle for serious traffic violations; and

(5) Has not had any conviction for a violation of State or local law
relating to motor vehicle traffic control (other than a parking
violation) arising in connection with any traffic accident, and has no
record of an accident in which he/she was at fault; and

(b) An applicant must provide evidence and certify that:

(1) He/she is regularly employed in a job requiring operation of a
CMV, and that either:

(2) He/she has previously taken and passed a skills test given by a
State with a classified licensing and testing system, and that the test
was behind-the-wheel in a representative vehicle for that applicant's
driver's license classification; or

(3) He/she has operated, for at least 2 years immediately preceding
application for a CDL, a vehicle representative of the commercial motor
vehicle the driver applicant operates or expects to operate.


Sec. 383.91 Commercial motor vehicle groups.
Source: 53 FR 27651, July 21, 1988, unless otherwise noted.

(a) Vehicle group descriptions. Each driver applicant must possess
and be tested on his/her knowledge and skills, described in subpart G of
this part, for the commercial motor vehicle group(s) for which he/she
desires a CDL. The commercial motor vehicle groups are as follows:

(1) Combination vehicle (Group A)--Any combination of vehicles with
a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 11,794 kilograms or more
(26,001 pounds or more) provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed
is in excess of 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds).

(2) Heavy Straight Vehicle (Group B)--Any single vehicle with a GVWR
of 11,794 kilograms or more (26,001 pounds or more), or any such vehicle
towing a vehicle not in excess of 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds) GVWR.

(3) Small Vehicle (Group C)--Any single vehicle, or combination of
vehicles, that meets neither the definition of Group A nor that of Group
B as contained in this section, but that either is designed to transport
16 or more passengers including the driver, or is used in the
transportation of materials found to be hazardous for the purposes of
the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and which require the motor
vehicle to be placarded under the Hazardous Materials Regulations (49
CFR part 172, subpart F).

(b) Representative vehicle. For purposes of taking the driving test
in accordance with Sec. 383.113, a representative vehicle for a given
vehicle group contained in Sec. 383.91(a), is any commercial motor
vehicle which meets the definition of that vehicle group.

(c) Relation between vehicle groups. Each driver applicant who
desires to operate in a different commercial motor vehicle group from
the one which his/her CDL authorizes shall be required to retake and
pass all related tests, except the following:

(1) A driver who has passed the knowledge and skills tests for a
combination vehicle (Group A) may operate a heavy straight vehicle
(Group B) or a small vehicle (Group C), provided that he/she possesses
the requisite endorsement(s); and

(2) A driver who has passed the knowledge and skills tests for a
heavy straight vehicle (Group B) may operate any small vehicle (Group

C), provided that he/she possesses the requisite endorsement(s).

(d) Vehicle group illustration. Figure 1 illustrates typical
vehicles within each of the vehicle groups defined in this section.


Sec. 383.93 Endorsements.

(a) General. In addition to taking and passing the knowledge and
skills tests described in subpart G of this part, all persons who
operate or expect to operate the type(s) of motor vehicles described in
paragraph (b) of this section shall take and pass specialized tests to
obtain each endorsement. The State shall issue CDL endorsements only to
drivers who successfully complete the tests.

(b) Endorsement descriptions. An operator must obtain State-issued
endorsements to his/her CDL to operate commercial motor vehicles which
are:
(1) Double/triple trailers;
(2) Passenger vehicles;
(3) Tank vehicles;
(4) Used to transport hazardous materials as defined in Sec. 383.5,
or
(5) School buses.
(c) Endorsement testing requirements. The following tests are
required for the endorsements contained in paragraph (b) of this
section:
(1) Double/Triple Trailers--a knowledge test;
(2) Passenger--a knowledge and a skills test;
(3) Tank vehicle--a knowledge test;
(4) Hazardous Materials--a knowledge test; and
(5) School bus--a knowledge and a skills test.


Sec. 383.95 Air brake restrictions.

(a) If an applicant either fails the air brake component of the
knowledge test, or performs the skills test in a vehicle not equipped
with air brakes, the State shall indicate on the CDL, if issued, that
the person is restricted from operating a CMV equipped with air brakes.

(b) For the purposes of the skills test and the restriction, air
brakes shall include any braking system operating fully or partially on
the air brake principle.


Sec. 383.110 General requirement.
Source: 53 FR 27654, July 21, 1988, unless otherwise noted.

All drivers of commercial motor vehicles shall have knowledge and
skills necessary to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely as
contained in this subpart. A sample of the specific types of items which
a State may wish to include in the knowledge and skills tests that it
administers to CDL applicants is included in the appendix to this
subpart G.


Sec. 383.111 Required knowledge.

All commercial motor vehicle operators must have knowledge of the
following general areas:

(a) Safe operations regulations. Driver-related elements of the
regulations contained in 49 CFR parts 382, 391, 392, 393, 395, 396, and
397, such as: Motor vehicle inspection, repair, and maintenance
requirements; procedures for safe vehicle operations; the effects of
fatigue, poor vision, hearing, and general health upon safe commercial
motor vehicle operation; the types of motor vehicles and cargoes subject
to the requirements; and the effects of alcohol and drug use upon safe
commercial motor vehicle operations.

(b) Commercial motor vehicle safety control systems. Proper use of
the motor vehicle's safety system, including lights, horns, side and
rear-view mirrors, proper mirror adjustments, fire extinguishers,
symptoms of improper operation revealed through instruments, motor
vehicle operation characteristics, and diagnosing malfunctions.
Commercial motor vehicle drivers shall have knowledge on the correct
procedures needed to use these safety systems in an emergency situation,
e.g., skids and loss of brakes.

(c) Safe vehicle control--(1) Control systems The purpose and
function of the controls and instruments commonly found on commercial
motor vehicles.

(2) Basic control. The proper procedures for performing various
basic maneuvers.

(3) Shifting. The basic shifting rules and terms, as well as shift
patterns and procedures for common transmissions.

(4) Backing. The procedures and rules for various backing maneuvers.

(5) Visual search. The importance of proper visual search, and
proper visual search methods.

(6) Communication. The principles and procedures for proper
communications and the hazards of failure to signal properly.

(7) Speed management. The importance of understanding the effects of
speed.

(8) Space management. The procedures and techniques for controlling
the space around the vehicle.

(9) Night operation. Preparations and procedures for night driving.

(10) Extreme driving conditions. The basic information on operating
in extreme driving conditions and the hazards that are encountered in
extreme conditions.

(11) Hazard perceptions. The basic information on hazard perception
and clues for recognition of hazards.

(12) Emergency maneuvers. The basic information concerning when and
how to make emergency maneuvers.

(13) Skid control and recovery. The information on the causes and
major types of skids, as well as the procedures for recovering from
skids.

(d) Relationship of cargo to vehicle control. The principles and
procedures for the proper handling of cargo.

(e) Vehicle inspections: The objectives and proper procedures for
performing vehicle safety inspections, as follows:

(1) The importance of periodic inspection and repair to vehicle
safety.
(2) The effect of undiscovered malfunctions upon safety.
(3) What safety-related parts to look for when inspecting vehicles.
(4) Pre-trip/enroute/post-trip inspection procedures.
(5) Reporting findings.
(f) Hazardous materials knowledge, such as: What constitutes
hazardous material requiring an endorsement to transport; classes of
hazardous materials; labeling/placarding requirements; and the need for
specialized training as a prerequisite to receiving the endorsement and
transporting hazardous cargoes.
(g) Air brake knowledge as follows:
(1) Air brake system nomenclature;
(2) The dangers of contaminated air supply;
(3) Implications of severed or disconnected air lines between the
power unit and the trailer(s);
(4) Implications of low air pressure readings;
(5) Procedures to conduct safe and accurate pre-trip inspections.
(6) Procedures for conducting enroute and post-trip inspections of
air actuated brake systems, including ability to detect defects which
may cause the system to fail.
(h) Operators for the combination vehicle group shall also have
knowledge of:
(1) Coupling and uncoupling--The procedures for proper coupling and
uncoupling a tractor to semi-trailer.

(2) Vehicle inspection--The objectives and proper procedures that