Are commercial trucks regulated by the state government or the federal government?

Both state and federal governments have laws regarding the operation of heavy trucks. Federal regulations created and overseen by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration set rules for “interstate” trucking (that is, truck travel across state lines). They include:

• Hours of service and documenting of hours through an electronic logging device
• Physical examinations and drug testing required
• The amount of weight the truck may carry in accordance with its size and proper loading procedures
• Regular maintenance schedules
• Required background checks on all truck drivers, including ensuring that the driver meets licensing requirements, amount of training, and has a satisfactory previous driving history
• The proper procedures and training required for transporting hazardous materials

Massachusetts also has laws that govern the “intrastate” trucking industry (within the borders of the Commonwealth), which include weight limits for specific roadways and a process for obtaining a permit to operate a truck on Massachusetts roads.