he Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) new definition for a tank vehicle, and requirements for which drivers need tank endorsements, goes into effect today, July 8, 2015. Under the new rule, any vehicle transporting bulk tanks with 1,000 or more gallons of total capacity is designated as a tank vehicle. 

To determine whether or not a vehicle qualifies, carriers should add up the total capacity of all bulk tanks on the vehicle. Bulk tanks are defined as those holding more than 119 gallons. These include portable tanks, intermediate bulk containers, cylinders, and other portable tanks that traditionally did not require tank endorsements. Empty tanks and those containing only residue can be ignored. If the total capacity is 1,000 gallons or more, the vehicle is a tank vehicle and be operated only by a driver with a tank endorsement. All states must adhere to the new definition starting today. The American Trucking Association (ATA) petitioned the FMCSA to adopt a definition that would not cover portable tanks and FMCSA has an open rulemaking considering the ATA’s proposal. Unfortunately, the FMCSA had not finalized that rule before today. We’ll continue to monitor the FMCSA’s rules regarding the exclusion of the portable tanks and make our members aware of their decision. 

If you have questions regarding this endorsement please contact Jan Vineyard at (304)345-2800.