FMCSA proposes new ‘tank vehicle’ definition

Washington – A Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration notice published Sept. 26 proposes to expand the agency’s definition of what constitutes a “tank vehicle” by incorporating guidance released in 2012.

Drivers of tank vehicles are required to obtain endorsements from the state that grants their commercial driver’s license.

In a 2011 rule, FMCSA expanded the tank vehicle definition and endorsement requirement to vehicles with multiple smaller tanks with a combined capacity of 1,000 gallons or more.

Some industry commenters – concerned by driver training costs – asked for clarification on whether the new definition applied to drivers using intermediate bulk containers, which are commonly used for transporting hazardous liquids and have small capacities. In response, FMCSA released regulatory guidance in May 2012 confirming that drivers transporting a combined 1,000 gallons or more of liquids inside multiple intermediate bulk containers require a tank vehicle endorsement.

Comments on the notice of proposed rulemaking are due Nov. 25.