Michigan Commercial Truck Regulations

Michigan has a regulatory code for tractor truck rigs.

Tractor trailers, often called semi-trucks, are the backbone of the American ground transportation system. Semi-trucks haul items from their place of manufacture to the end retail location. States like Michigan have regulatory codes that help to ensure these large vehicles are operated safely.

Size Requirements

Michigan requires all vehicles or vehicle combinations (power unit plus trailer) exceeding 10,001 lbs. to register as commercial motor vehicles. In addition, all vehicles that haul hazardous or toxic materials and are required to display hazardous materials placards are considered commercial motor vehicles.

Permits

Michigan offers two basic types of commercial motor vehicle permits: single trip and extended permits. Single-trip permits are issued for up to five days and are intended for people or companies whose vehicles are going to be entering the state to conduct business for only one trip. Extended permits are issued for up to one year (to be renewed annually) and are intended for people or companies conducting business in Michigan on a regular basis.

Truck Identification

Michigan law requires that all commercial motor vehicles exceeding 5,000 lbs. display the name, city, state and logo of the company for which it is hauling. The lettering for this information must be more than 3 inches tall to be in compliance with this regulation.

References

• Trucking Safety: FAQ - General Information
• Michigan Department of Transportation: FAQ - Commerical Vehicle Transport Permits