FLHSMV Clarifies Exemptions for Covered Farm Vehicles in Florida

Covered Farm Vehicles

Covered Farm Vehicles Certain drivers of covered farm vehicles are exempt from certain requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). This means that they do not need to possess a commercial driver license (CDL) to operate covered farm vehicles and are exempt from certain recordkeeping and medical card requirements. The federal exemption applies to the following individuals: An operator of a covered farm vehicle, as defined in 49 CFR 390.5, who is not operating it for hire. A custom harvest operation, as defined in 49 CFR 390.5, when the vehicle is operated by a custom harvester or an employee of a custom harvester. Vehicles that meet the definition of a "covered farm vehicle" are those that: Are operated by a farm or ranch owner or operator, or an employee or a family member of a farm or ranch owner or operator; Transport agricultural commodities, livestock, machinery, or supplies to or from a farm or ranch; Are not used in a for-hire motor carrier operation, except for a custom harvest operation; Are not transporting placardable quantities of hazardous materials; And Are operated within the state of Florida or within 150 air miles of the farm or ranch. Additional information can be found in 49 CFR 390.3(f)(2).