Anybody heard of a master tag?

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Feb 6, 2012 | 09:31 AM

#11

hydroshok

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From: Nashville, TN

Not quite....

Quote:

Originally Posted by blacktruck

This is true for a tractor-trailer combination. I don't think it holds true for a truck and trailer which is what a typical gooseneck trailer is classified as.

This all depends on your state. In PA if you don't have your truck registered for both truck and trailer weight; it is a big fine because they weigh you with the trucks rating as the total amount you can carry. I agree this is stupid because as you point out below; the truck is not actually supporting a lot of weight.

Quote:

Originally Posted by blacktruck

Apportioned has nothing to do with a CDL. It has everything to do with a vehicle operated for commercial purposes and traveling in many jurisdictions or states. The need for a CDL is determined by the type and dimensions of your vehicle. Over 26K on a straight truck needs a CDL unless you operate if for a farm and then with limitations. If you drive a commercial combination vehicle that is pulling a trailer over 10K, you are required to have a CDL except for farm limitations again. 26K and over run an IFTA sticker to pay for fuel taxes due in each state operated in. Apportioned plates can be on almost any commercial vehicle traveling in multiple states. The deal with Maine plates might still be there but that was done many years ago to avoid high priced trailer plates. The rules changed and there isn't a need anymore to do that. It only worked on semi trailers and tractors and not weight carrying trailers like goosenecks pulled by trucks. The difference there is a truck can carry a load, a tractor can't unless it is hooked to a trailer.

Everyone at DOT told me I didn't need apportioned tags because I was not CDL. Maybe you can get them if you want to pay extra money, but I wouldn't see why. I was looking at apportioned tags, random drug testing, and IFTA if I wanted to step up to CDL.

The wording on CDL requirements is tricky , but you only need a CDL if you are over 26k. They add up the weight of truck and trailer on their vin plates or registration when you pull in the scale. Trust me, I have been running this way for 2 years, had my safety audits and a ton of roadside inspections.