Do Bobtail Trucks Need to Stop at Weigh Stations?

When driving a bobtail truck, especially on active duty with a government-issued license plate, one may wonder whether such vehicles are exempt from stopping at weigh stations. In my experience, I was driving a grey government bobtail truck with clear 'US NAVY' letters on the doors and a US Government license plate for three years without ever having to stop at the California Highway Patrol's (CHP) scales.

California's Weigh Station Requirements

In California, if you have a 1/2 ton pickup with anything other than a standard pickup bed, you are required to stop at weigh stations. This requirement applies even to trucks with commercial bodies that are significantly larger than 1/2 tons. Most of our group's members with these types of trucks don't bother to stop at the scales, and to the best of my knowledge, no one has faced harassment from the CHP. The CHP is mainly concerned with heavy trucks and large commercial vehicles.

State-Specific Regulations

However, the situation may vary depending on the state. For instance, back in a previous year, I received a stop for not stopping at a weigh station in Colorado. This indicates that there may be state-specific requirements that need to be adhered to.

For commercial motor vehicles (CMVs), the answer is a resounding 'yes.' All CMVs are required to stop at weigh stations. This includes bobtail trucks, as they are categorized as CMVs when used as commercial vehicles. If your bobtail truck is being used as a personal vehicle and has 'Not for Hire' markings, you might be able to get away without stopping.

General Compliance Tips

When in doubt, it's always best to follow the rules and stop at weigh stations. Non-compliance can result in fines, towing, and other legal complications. Here are a few tips to help ensure compliance:

Verify the specific requirements of each state you will be driving in, as regulations can vary. Keep any relevant documentation (such as weight receipts) on hand to demonstrate that your truck falls under the 'Not for Hire' category. Stay informed about weigh station locations, as they can sometimes be quite busy or relocated.

By familiarizing yourself with the regulations and being proactive, you can avoid potential issues and maintain a smooth journey along the road.

Conclusion

While bobtail trucks owning a government-issued license plate and being used by military personnel may have some flexibility in California, it's crucial to stay informed about state-specific weigh station requirements. All commercial motor vehicles, including bobtail trucks, need to stop at weigh stations to comply with federal and state regulations.