DOT Weight and Size Limit Regulations 2

Question 1

What minimum semi-trailer length must states allow on the National Network under the Surface Transportation Assistance Act (STAA) of 1982?

Accepted Answer

48 feet

Answer

The STAA of 1982 required states to permit at least 48-foot semi-trailers on the National Network, establishing a federal floor for trailer lengths.

Question 2

Under Bridge Formula B, which variable most directly determines the maximum allowable weight for a group of axles?

Accepted Answer

Distance between the first and last axle of the group

Answer

Bridge Formula B uses the distance between the outermost axles of any consecutive group to calculate the maximum permissible weight on that group.

Question 3

Safety devices such as rear-view mirrors may extend beyond the 102-inch width limit by up to how much on each side?

Accepted Answer

6 inches per side

Answer

Federal regulations allow safety devices such as rear-view mirrors to extend up to 6 inches beyond the 102-inch width limit on each side of the vehicle.

Question 4

Which of the following vehicle types is typically exempt from federal length limitations under the STAA?

Accepted Answer

Automobile transporters

Answer

Automobile and boat transporters are exempt from federal trailer length limitations under the STAA because of the unique nature of their cargo.

Question 5

At a permanent weigh station, the primary tool used to definitively verify axle weights for enforcement purposes is:

Accepted Answer

A certified static scale

Answer

Certified static scales at fixed weigh stations are the standard for legally defensible axle and gross weight measurements during DOT enforcement actions.

DOT Inspector Certification Practice Test

DOT Inspector Certification Practice Test

DOT Weight and Size Limit Regulations 2