The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Big Bolts Do I need DOT numbers on my doors?

I have a 1964 GMC 4000. In WV all trucks bigger than 1 tons require commercial license plates. Gross is 23,000, but I only license it to 14,000 since it is only used to haul a little mulch in the spring and a little lumber occasionally. Over the last couple of years it has only been used for about 400 miles.

It is only used for personal use. Are DOT number required?

Thanks,

Scott

You should probably check with your local DMV. Every state is different.

As long as the truck is not used in commerce, as in anything that generates income, you should not need DOT numbers. That's according to federal rules. Each state has their own rules that can be more strict than the federal government's so you'll have to check with them. Oklahoma is pretty lax on lighter trucks but I have seen DOT pull pickups with trailers loaded with firewood into a weigh station. Again what makes it commercial is whether it generates income, not size. Haul firewood for sale, your commercial. Help a friend move and get paid in beer, technically still commercial!

Scott --

As others have said, W. Va. law may (and probably does) vary from the law in other states.

So far as I know, you only need US DOT numbers if you're a commercial vehicle engaged in interstate commerce. The DOT considers pretty much anything to be commerce so you don't necessarily have to be paid.

You're not a commercial vehicle because you're not over 26000 lbs GVWR and you're not hauling passengers so I'm pretty sure you're good with no DOT number even if you do go out of state.

Just my $ 0.02

Pete P.
Harborcreek, Penna.

My understanding is that any vehicle that does not require a CDL (commercial driver's license) to operate will not be subject to DOT number applications. Here in MN, any truck with a license tab of K or prior (up to 26000 GVW) is legal for anyone with a valid driver's license to operate (according to the CDL testing facility I spoke with a few minutes ago).

In Missouri, we can get historic registration. No renewal, no inspections and you just have to show proof of insurance with the title. The vehical has to be 25+ years old.
You are limited to 1000 mile a year for personal use, but unlimited miles for shows, parades and charity events.
I have at least 5 cars and trucks regestered this way.
One includes the GMC 9500 Firetruck with air brakes and I know the truck alone weighs well over 20,000 pounds.
No CDL required, just proof of insurance.
Call the W.V. DMV or DOT. You may have to make several calls to get your questions answered.

Hope this helps.

I find it ironic that if you ask a dozen officials of ANY State DOT about something like this,you'll likely get a dozen different,and often contradictory,answers. So far Nevada is the worst I'm aware of for this-even THEY don't know the rules for sure,but they sure "know" when you're VIOLATING the rules.
Speed

USDOT numbers are for commercial vehicles only regardless of GVW. I work for a truck leasing/rental company that deals with almost every state in the country, if us employees operate it or a business rents it it is considered COMMERCIAL, we can rent that very same truck to a guy moving his home belongings it is considered a NON -commercial or a Household truck and is not subject to the same laws, however this will not stop a Weigh Master from pulling you over or into a scale house, you just may have to do some explaining . If your truck is truly used for personal use you may have to hang a sign or put decals that say "Not for hire" but definitely best to get with your local officials to find out. Out here in Washington we have quite a bit of folks that use an old semi tractor to pull their gigantic 5th wheel camp trailer and they have those decals on the sides of the truck. Hope that helps