The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (Title 49, Parts 350-399) govern all vehicles engaged in interstate traffic. There are some situations where a tractor-trailer or other commercial motor vehicle is involved in only intrastate travel. For example, an appliance store in San Clemente may own a truck that only makes in-state deliveries. The California Department of Public Safety has adopted Title 49, Parts 382-384 and 390-399 of the federal regulations.
The following provisions are an overview of California laws that affect trucks operating only in California:
Driver Qualification
In order to be employed as a driver for compensation in California, one must be at least 18 years old, and 21 years old to haul hazardous materials or to be engaged in interstate commerce.
Hours of Service
Interstate drivers as well as drivers transporting hazardous wastes or hazardous substances are subject to the same regulations as found in Title 49, Part 395 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
Drivers not required to follow the Federal Regulations are not permitted to drive more than 12 hours, or drive after having been working for 15 hours, following 8 hours of being off duty.