What is an owner operator?

Owner operator:

An owner-operator is an individual who owns and operates his own trucking business. They have a DOT and Motor Carrier (MC) number. Is this you? good news! As an owner-operator, you have two exemptions.

The following are two exemptions from the FMCSA drug and alcohol regulations for owner-operators:

1. 49 CFR Part 382.601 - Drafting policy on alcohol abuse and controlled substance use.

2. 49 CFR Part 382.603 - Supervisor Training.



Since you do not manage other employees, it is not necessary for you to have a drug and alcohol policy. Since you do not supervise any employees, you do not have to undergo supervisor training. Beware of scammers trying to scare you into their training sessions. Remember, DOT will never endorse any type of training program

Commercial owner-operators have some loopholes when it comes to drug testing. They need self-discipline and self-control. If they are self-employed, how do they meet DOT's drug testing requirements?

We've filtered Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Motor Transportation Safety Administration (FMCSA) drug testing information, which is only available to owner-operators. We wrote it in our own words, so it is easier to understand. let's start.

Are you covered by the federal DOT-FMCSA drug and alcohol testing regulations?

the first thing. Determine if the DOT-FMCSA drug and alcohol testing regulations apply to you.

1. Do you operate a truck or bus:

1. Gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more?

2. Designed to carry more than 16 passengers (including the driver)?

3. Any size of the transport vehicle marked with hazardous materials?

2. Do you need to hold a CDL in the US or a similar license from Mexico or Canada?

Did you answer "yes" to questions 1 and 2 above? If so, it means you need to comply with DOT-FMCSA drug and alcohol regulations. These are Code of Federal Regulations DOT codes in 49 CFR Part 40 and FMCSA in 49 CFR Part 382.

Your state may exempt you if you operate an agricultural vehicle. Do you ship farm supplies within 150 miles of your farm? Is the vehicle not used for motor transport (commercial) purposes? If so, check your state's regulations to be sure.

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