Missouri's Commercial Vehicle Regulations

Introduction

In order to make your travels into and through our state safer and less complicated, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is pleased to provide this informational booklet which summarizes many of the rules and regulations concerning the operation of commercial motor vehicles and trailers. This guide is furnished as a service to you and is intended to provide valuable information concerning trucking in Missouri.

Definitions

Sections 301.010, 302.010 RSMo

Commercial Motor Vehicle

One designed or regularly used for carrying freight and merchandise or more than eight passengers.

Local Commercial Motor Vehicle

One whose operations are confined to a municipality and that area extending not more than 50 miles therefrom; or a commercial motor vehicle whose property-carrying operations are confined to the transportation of property owned by any person who is the owner or operator of such vehicle to and from a farm owned by such person or under his control by virtue of a landlord and tenant lease; provided that any such property transported to any such farm is for use in the operations of such farm.

Owner

Includes any person, firm, corporation, or association who holds legal title of a vehicle or in the event a vehicle is the subject of an agreement for the conditional sale or lease thereof with the right of purchase upon performance of the conditions stated in the agreement and with an immediate right of possession vested in the conditional vendee or lessee, or in the event a mortgagor of a vehicle is entitled to possession, then such conditional vendee or lessee or mortgagor shall be deemed the owner for the purpose of this act.

Tractor, Truck Tractor, or Truck-Tractor

A self-propelled motor vehicle designed for drawing other vehicles, but not for the carriage of any load when operating independently. When attached to a semitrailer, it supports a part of the weight thereof.

Truck

A motor vehicle designed, used, or maintained for the transportation of property.

Chauffeur

An operator who operates a motor vehicle in the transportation of persons or property and who receives compensation for such services in wages, salary, commission, or fare; or who as owner or employee operates a motor vehicle carrying passengers or property for hire; or who regularly operates a commercial motor vehicle of another person in the course of or as an incident to his employment, but whose principal occupation is not the operating of such motor vehicle.

General Regulations and Safety Laws

Speed Law — Section 304.010 RSMo

The speed limit on Missouri's rural interstates and freeways is 70 mph; on the rural expressways, 65 mph; and on the interstate highways, freeways, or expressways within the urbanized areas of this state, 60 mph. All other roads and highways in this state not located in an urbanized area have a speed limit of 60 mph. This shall not include any state two-lane road identified by letter. Such lettered roads shall not exceed 55 mph unless set at a higher speed as established by the department of transportation, except that no speed limit shall be set higher than 60 mph. The minimum speed limit is 40 mph on divided highways designed as part of the federal interstate system, except when slower speed is required for safety because of weather or other special conditions.

Distance Between Vehicles

Section 304.017 RSMo — The driver of a vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonably safe and prudent, so as to allow sufficient space between each such vehicle or combination of vehicles as to enable any other vehicle to overtake or pass such vehicles in safety.

Section 304.044 RSMo — The driver of any truck or bus shall not follow within 300 feet of another such vehicle, except when passing.

Commercial Motor Vehicle To Stop At Weigh Stations — Section 304.235 RSMo

All commercial motor vehicles, except those licensed for 18,000 pounds or less, are required to stop at an official weigh station. Others may be required to stop if directed by a peace officer or commercial vehicle officer/inspector.

Markings — Section 301.330 RSMo

Each commercial vehicle used for commercial purposes or vehicles registered for more than 36,000 pounds gross weight are required to be marked with the name of the owner and the address (city and state) from which the vehicle is operated. If the vehicle bears a "local" license the word "local" must be marked on the vehicle as well. The required marking must be displayed in a conspicuous place on the vehicle.

Requirements For Vehicles Hauling Hazardous Materials — Section 307.177 RSMo

It is unlawful for any person to operate any bus, truck, truck-tractor and trailer combination, or other commercial motor vehicle and trailer upon any highway of this state, whether intrastate transportation or interstate transportation, unless such transportation is conducted in accordance with the hazardous material regulations established by the United States Department of Transportation pursuant to Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, as such regulations have been and may periodically be amended.

For further information concerning Department of Transportation regulations contact:

Missouri does not require additional licensing or permitting for the transportation of hazardous material in addition to that required by the USDOT. Missouri does not have designated hazardous material routes.

Missouri does require transporters of certain hazardous wastes to be licensed through the MoDOT — Motor Carrier Services. For further information regarding the transportation of hazardous waste contact:

Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection — Sections 307.350, 307.170, 307.400

Section 307.350 RSMo — A Missouri approval certificate must accompany an application for annual registration or transfer of registration for commercial motor vehicles. Exception: Commercial motor vehicles if subject to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and are proportionately registered with MoDOT — Motor Carrier Services. The inspection must be within 60 days prior to application for annual registration or transfer of registration.

Section 307.170 RSMo — Applies to all commercial motor vehicles and trailers: When being operated on any highway of this state shall be equipped with adequate and proper brakes, lighting equipment, signaling devices, steering mechanisms, horns, mirrors, windshield wipers, tires, wheels, exhaust system, glazing, air pollution control devices, fuel tank, and any other safety equipment required by the state in such condition so as to obtain a certificate and approval as required by the provisions of Section 307.360 RSMo.

Section 307.400 RSMo — It is unlawful for any person to operate any commercial motor vehicle as defined in Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 390.5, either singly or in combination with a trailer, unless such vehicles are equipped and operated as required by Parts 390 through 397, Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, whether intrastate transportation or interstate transportation.

The following commercial vehicles are exempt from Section 307.400 RSMo when operated wholly within the state of Missouri:

1. Commercial motor vehicle licensed for a gross weight of 60,000 pounds or less when used exclusively for the transportation of solid waste; and
2. Commercial motor vehicle registered for a gross weight of 42,000 pounds or less when the license plate has been designated for farm use by an "F" decal. (See MAP-21 Exemptions below.)

Parts 390 through 397, Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, are not applicable to property carrying commercial motor vehicles which have a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating of 26,000 pounds or less. This exception does not extend to vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver or to vehicles transporting hazardous materials.

Commercial vehicles subject to the federal motor carrier safety regulations are to be subjected to an annual inspection per Part 396.17 Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations.

MAP-21 Exemptions

A covered farm vehicle is defined as a motor vehicle, including an articulated motor vehicle that: Is traveling in the state in which the vehicle is registered or another state; and is operated by a farm owner/operator, a ranch owner/operator, or an employee/family member of the farm/ranch owner. Covered farm vehicles transport agricultural commodities, livestock, machinery, or supplies to or from a farm/ranch.

These vehicles display a special license plate ("F" tab in Missouri) to allow for identification of the vehicle as a farm vehicle by law enforcement personnel. The covered farm vehicle has a gross weight rating or gross vehicle weight, whichever is greater, of 26,001 pounds or less (interstate commerce in U.S.).

49 Code Of Federal Regulations

Additional information specific to MAP-21 exemptions for covered farm vehicles can be found:

1. 49 CFR Part 382: Controlled Substance & Alcohol Use & Testing.
2. 49 CFR Part 383: Commercial Driver's License Standards; Requirement & Penalties.
3. 49 CFR Part 391, Subpart E: Physical Qualification & Examinations. (Note: The rest of Part 391 still applies to the operation of a covered farm vehicle.)
4. 49 CFR Part 395: Hours of Service.
5. 49 CFR Part 396: Inspection, Repair, & Maintenance.

Missouri Is A Member Of CVSA (Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance). Commercial vehicles are subject to safety inspections either on the highway or at weigh station facilities.

Safety Responsibility Law — Section 303.040

The state of Missouri has a safety responsibility law. If you are involved in a traffic crash upon a public street or highway in which any person is killed or injured; or in which damage to the property of any person, including yourself, is more than $500 and where there is an uninsured motorist involved and a settlement has not been agreed to by all parties, you are required to file a traffic crash report within 60 days from the date of the traffic crash.

If your state has a similar law and you fail to make the report then your driving privilege may be suspended in your home state. The form for preparing the report may generally be obtained from the officer investigating the traffic crash. It should be completed and sent to: Safety Responsibility Unit, Missouri Department of Revenue, P.O. Box 200, Jefferson City, MO 65102.

Proof of financial responsibility is required to be carried by the operator of a vehicle except commercial vehicles subject to USDOT or Motor Carrier services regulations.

Size & Weight Limitations

Size Limitations (Without Special Permits) — Sections 304.170, 304.190 RSMo

Interstate and Designated Highways Plus 10 Miles Therefrom

Width: 102 inches

Height: 14 feet (15 feet when operated exclusively within commercial zones as defined in Section 304.190 RSMo)

Length:

• 45 feet — Single vehicles including load
• 45 feet — Single buses (additional one foot authorized per front and rear for safety bumpers)
• 28 feet — Twin or double trailer configurations are restricted to two 28-foot trailers, including load. No restriction on overall length.
• 28½ feet — Twin or double trailer configurations may utilize two 28½-foot trailers if the semi-trailers were in actual use on December 1, 1982. These combinations are restricted to a 65-foot overall length.
• 53 feet — A truck-tractor and semi-trailer combination are restricted to a 53-foot trailer including load. No overall length restriction.
• 65 feet — A truck-trailer and semi-trailer is restricted to 65 feet overall length including load.
• 60 feet — Articulated buses (additional 1 foot authorized per front and rear for safety bumpers)
• 80 feet — Automobile and boat transporters are restricted to 80 feet overall excluding allowable overhangs (4 feet front, 6 feet rear).
• 82 feet — Towaway trailer transport combination (total weight not exceeding 26,000 pounds, trailers carry no property)
• 97 feet — Driveaway saddle mount combinations (not more than three saddle mounts and one full mount)

Primary Highways Or 10 Miles Therefrom

(Only applies when more than 10 miles from an interstate or designated highway.)

Width: 102 inches — All vehicles and combinations

Height: 13 feet 6 inches (14 feet for auto/motor vehicle transporters; 15 feet within commercial zones)

Length:

• 45 feet — Single vehicles including load
• 45 feet — Single buses
• 60 feet — Truck-tractor and semi-trailer combination overall length
• 55 feet — A truck-trailer or semi-trailer overall length including load
• 65 feet — Auto/boat transporters overall (excluding allowable overhangs: 3 feet front, 4 feet rear)
• 65 feet — Driveaway saddle mount combinations overall
• 65 feet — Truck-tractor, semi-trailer combination (doubles) overall

All Other Routes

Width: 102 inches — All vehicles and combinations

Height: 13 feet 6 inches (14 feet for auto/motor vehicle transporters; 15 feet within commercial zones)

Length:

• 45 feet — Single vehicle including load
• 45 feet — Single buses
• 55 feet — Truck-trailer or any other combination not specifically addressed
• 55 feet — Truck and semi-trailer (excluding those designed to transport boats or motor vehicles)
• 60 feet — Truck-tractor and semi-trailer combination (including those designed to carry motor vehicles; excluding allowable overhangs: 3 feet front, 4 feet rear)
• 65 feet — Truck-tractor, semi-trailer, and trailer combination (doubles)

Weight Limitations (Without Special Permit) — Section 304.180 RSMo

Missouri highways are designed to support established maximum weights, and excess weight can cause damage to the highways.

1. Single Axle Weight

• Interstate highways: 20,000 pounds maximum
• Non-interstate highways: 22,000 pounds maximum
• Commercial zones (Section 304.190 RSMo): 22,400 pounds maximum
• Steering axle: limited by the above or by the weight rating marked on the steering axle tires, whichever is less

2. Tandem Axle Weight

A tandem axle is a group of two or more axles, arranged one behind the other, the distance between the extremes is more than 40 inches and not more than 96 inches apart.

• Interstate highways: 34,000 pounds maximum
• Non-interstate highways: 36,000 pounds maximum

3. Groups of Axles (Federal Bridge Formula)

Weight on any groups of two or more axles on interstate, primary, and other designated highways is determined by the federal bridge formula — a table of distances between axles, the number of axles in the group, and the maximum gross weight the group can legally carry.

Vehicles operating on highways other than the interstate highway system may exceed the weight limitations in the table an amount not to exceed 2,000 pounds. However, total gross weight shall not exceed 80,000 pounds.

4. Posted Bridge Limits

Bridges posted with weight limit signs must be observed. Weight limits vary depending on the structural capability of each bridge. Other restrictions may also apply, such as speed and lane use restrictions.

Official MoDOT Highway Maps showing highways on which vehicles of various lengths, widths, and weights may travel as well as posted bridges for lower weight limits may be obtained from:

Special Weight Provisions

• Livestock: Total gross weight may be up to 85,500 pounds on highways other than the interstate highway system.
• Milk (farm to processing facility): Total gross weight may be up to 85,500 pounds on highways other than the interstate system.
• Grain and grain co-products: During times of harvest, may be up to 10 percent over the maximum weight limits on highways other than the interstate highway system.
• Natural gas vehicles: May exceed weight limits by an amount equal to the difference between the natural gas tank/fueling system weight and a comparable diesel system. Maximum gross vehicle weight shall not exceed 82,000 pounds.
• Idle reduction equipment: Vehicles equipped with functional idle reduction equipment will be granted up to 550 pounds gross weight or axle weight.

Note: The measurement of width and length will NOT include safety and energy conservation devices, such as rear view mirrors, turn signal lamps, marker lamps, steps, and handholds for entry and exit, flexible fender extensions, mudflaps, and splash and spray suppressant devices, load-induced tire bulge, refrigeration units or air compressors and other such devices that do not by their design or use have the capability to carry cargo.

Permits & Fees

72-Hour Reciprocity Trip Permit

For registration purposes, in lieu of credentials, a 72-hour Reciprocity Trip Permit is necessary for vehicles coming into Missouri that are based in another jurisdiction. The permit must be secured prior to entry and be in the vehicle while in the state. The permit costs $10.

Trip permits are available from:

• MoDOT — Motor Carrier Services: (800) 877-8499
• A-1 Over-the-Road Permits: (800) 577-3764
• Permit America: (866) 573-7648
• Comdata (Permit RCS Solutions): 800-749-7107

The Fuel ($10), Division of Transportation ($5), and Reciprocity Permits ($10) are of the same duration — 72 hours. Combined permits are available for $25 (all three) or $20 (Fuel + Reciprocity).

Reciprocity — Sections 301.271, 301.277 RSMo

Missouri is a member of the International Registration Plan (IRP). The original receipt and/or cab card must accompany unit.

Under the IRP, an apportionable vehicle is one operated in more than one jurisdiction and:

1. having two axles and weighs more or is licensed for more than 26,000 pounds; or
2. having three or more axles, regardless of weight; or
3. is used in combination with a gross vehicle weight or licensed weight in excess of 26,000 pounds.

Hunter's Permit — Section 301.266 RSMo

A Hunter's Permit authorizes the operation of a truck and trailer, while empty, upon cancellation of a lease agreement. The fee is $25 for 30 days for truck and trailer at the unladen weight. Fuel tax requirements still apply.

Motor Fuel User License/IFTA Tax — Sections 142.617, 142.803, 142.908 RSMo

Missouri is a member of the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA). An "Interstate Motor Fuel User" is subject to the IFTA licensing and reporting requirements when operating in interstate commerce.

A "qualified motor vehicle" under the IFTA agreement is defined as:

1. having two axles and a gross vehicle weight or registered weight exceeding 26,000 pounds; or
2. having three or more axles regardless of weight; or
3. is used in combination, when the weight exceeds 26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight or registered gross vehicle weight.

Occasional interstate trip operators may purchase a $10, 72-hour trip permit in lieu of being licensed, bonded, and reporting fuel tax.

Oversize & Weight Permits

MoDOT issues permits for vehicles with non-reducible loads exceeding maximum dimensions or weights. Contact:

Holiday Restrictions: No movement is allowed on New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. If a holiday falls on Saturday, the restriction applies to the preceding Friday. If on Sunday, the following Monday. Restrictions begin at 12 p.m. on the day preceding the holiday.

Maintenance Trip Permit — Section 301.175 RSMo

A maintenance trip permit is a supplement to a local commercial license for operating a vehicle while empty to or from a place of repair or maintenance within 10 days of issuance. Cost: $5 from Department of Revenue branch and fee offices.

Transportation Of Hazardous Waste — Section 260.395 RSMo

It is unlawful to transport hazardous waste in Missouri without first obtaining a hazardous waste transporter license. Highway transportation license and certificate must accompany vehicle.

Missouri Department Of Revenue LP/Electric Decal — Section 142.869 RSMo

All motor vehicles powered by alternative fuels (LP gas, natural gas, or electric motor) must purchase and attach a Missouri Department of Revenue Alternative Fuel decal. Non-residents may purchase a temporary decal valid for 15 days for $8. This requirement does not apply to interstate motor fuel users displaying proper IFTA credentials.

Registration — Section 301.030 RSMo

Deadline for registration of regular commercial motor vehicles, trailers, semitrailers, or driveaway vehicles is the last day of February. Permanent apportioned license plates have no grace period after their expiration date.

Farm License Decal — Section 301.030 RSMo

A registrant requesting a farm decal must display the "F" decal on the local license plate. Such vehicles:

1. Operations are confined solely to the transportation of property owned by the owner or operator to or from a farm owned or leased by such person;
2. Property transported to any such farm is used for the operation of such farm;
3. May be operated outside the 50-mile radius normally restricted to a regular "local license."

Registration Fees — Sections 301.057, 301.058 RSMo

Property carrying commercial motor vehicles having gross weight of:

Trailer fees are $7.50. Trailers with a fifth wheel and king pin assembly or a trailer converter dolly may be registered for three years for $22.50, or a permanent nontransferable registration for $52.50.

Missouri Law For Hire Carriers

Common and contract carriers transporting persons or property for hire or compensation must obtain operating authority from MoDOT — Motor Carrier Services.

Exemptions — Section 390.030 RSMo

• Private Carrier: Transportation incidental to or in furtherance of commercial enterprise, other than transportation.
• School buses
• Taxicabs
• Motor vehicles transporting stocker or feeder livestock, farm or dairy products from farm to market, agricultural limestone or fertilizers to farms, or property from farm to farm
• Raw forest products from farm to market with one intermediate stop for intervening processing
• Cotton, cottonseed and cottonseed hulls
• Motor vehicles of a carrying capacity of not to exceed five persons or one ton of freight, when operated under contract with the federal government for carrying the United States Mail
• Vehicles used solely in distribution of newspapers from publisher to subscriber or distributor
• Motor vehicles while being used under contract for the state or a civil subdivision thereof
• Freight-carrying motor vehicles registered and licensed for a gross weight of 60,000 pounds or less
• Vehicles operating wholly within a municipality or its commercial zone (with exceptions for passenger carriers in counties of more than 300,000 persons and carriers of commodities in bulk, tank, or hopper type vehicles)
• Street railroads
• Vehicles operating interstate exclusively within a municipality and its commercial zone
• Tow trucks or wreckers designed and exclusively used in the business of towing or rendering assistance to abandoned, disabled, or wrecked vehicles
• Motor vehicles used solely by a group of employees to commute to and from their place of employment

Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) — Section 390.071 RSMo

Private and for-hire carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders operating in interstate commerce may be required to obtain a unified carrier registration.

72-Hour Temporary Permit

Must accompany vehicle. Any license altered, erased, mutilated, or not properly validated shall be deemed void.

Motor Vehicle Lease

Motor vehicle carriers holding intrastate operating authority shall not lease vehicles with or without drivers to shippers or receivers.

Miscellaneous Information

Abandoned Vehicle (Section 304.155 RSMo)

Vehicles left unattended on an interstate highway in an urbanized area for 10 hours may be removed; outside an urbanized area for 24 hours. Immediate removal if a law enforcement officer determines the property is a serious hazard (exception: hauling hazardous materials).

Rest Areas And Roadside Parks

Commercial motor vehicles are allowed and drivers are invited to use rest areas and roadside parks in Missouri. There are no restrictions prohibiting units from staying overnight.

Litter Law

Minimum fine of $25 and maximum of $500 for throwing refuse on the highway.

Passing On Right

Permitted on four-lane highways. Vehicles shall not be driven off the main traveled portion of two-lane highways to pass on the right.

Passing

Law requires a signal by arm and hand or electrical signal before overtaking and passing, and when changing lanes or direction.

Turns

Right turns permitted on RED light after stop, except where prohibited by signs.

Studded Tires

Not permitted April 1 to November 1.

Fire Extinguishers

Required equipment on vehicles transporting hazardous materials, for-hire vehicles, and certain private commercial motor vehicles.

Triangle Reflectors/Warning Devices

Required equipment on vehicles transporting hazardous materials, for-hire vehicles, and certain private commercial motor vehicles.

Towing (Motor Vehicles)

When being towed, motor vehicles shall not be separated by more than 15 feet. Both vehicles shall display lawful lights when towed at night. Safety chains must have sufficient strength to control the towed vehicle in the event of failure of the primary coupling device.

Railroad Crossings

Drivers are required to stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet of a railroad crossing when an electric or mechanical device or crossing gate is lowered.

School Bus Law

Vehicles must stop from either direction when a school bus is stopped loading or unloading children. (Do not have to stop when meeting a school bus on a four-lane highway.)

Emergency Vehicle

At the approach of an emergency vehicle displaying red or blue lights and siren, vehicles must be driven as far to the right as possible and stopped. When approaching a stationary emergency vehicle displaying red, blue, or amber and white lights, a driver should yield the right of way by moving into the left lane when on a multilane highway, when safe and legal to do so.

Questions? Addresses & Phone Numbers

Enforcement Information

Motor Fuel License/IFTA

Missouri Department of Transportation

For the Missouri Department of Transportation office nearest you, consult your local phone directory.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

Consumer Complaints Hotline: 1-888-368-7238

Emergency Highway Assistance

1-800-525-5555 or cellular *55

Road Conditions

1-888-275-6636

MSHP Troop Headquarters

* Service Centers

Published By