Commercial motor vehicle markings (Canada)

Scope

The vehicle marking requirements, if the jurisdiction establishes them, are typically applicable to carriers operating commercial vehicles.

Regulatory citations

• None

Key definitions

• Commercial vehicle: Trucks, tractors, or trailers, or any combination of them, that have a registered gross vehicle weight exceeding 4,500 kilograms; or buses with a seating capacity of more than 10 persons, including the driver.

Summary of requirements

Here are some general guidelines:

• Carrier Identification: In many provinces, the name of the carrier operating the vehicle must be displayed on both sides of the vehicle. For example, in British Columbia, the carrier's name must be in letters and numbers at least 5 cm high and clearly visible to the public.
• Safety Certificate: Vehicles covered by a safety fitness certificate must display the name of the carrier holding the certificate when operating on highways.
• Provincial Variations: Some provinces, like Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, do not have specific vehicle marking regulations.

Comparison to United States

The U.S. DOT establishes very specific vehicle marking requirements in 390.21. If a Canada-based carrier operates into the United States, the carrier must comply with the U.S. safety regulations, including the requirement to mark the commercial vehicle according to 390.21.