Longer combination vehicles (LCVs)

Scope

Because of their length and special characteristics, LCV drivers require special training as well as a “double/triple trailer” endorsement on their CDLs. There are also state-based permitting, operational, and equipment requirements drivers and carriers must follow.

Regulatory citations

• 49 CFR 380.301 - General requirements
• 49 CFR Part 380 - Special training requirements

Key definitions

• Longer combination vehicle (LCV): Any combination of a truck-tractor and two or more trailers or semi-trailers, which is allowed to operate on the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) greater than 80,000 pounds.
• Qualified LCV driver-instructor: An instructor meeting the requirements contained in Subpart C to Part 380. There are two types of qualified LCV driver-instructors: (1) classroom instructor and (2) skills instructor, and each type of driver-instructor must meet specific requirements.

Summary of requirements

Employers are prohibited from allowing drivers to operate LCVs unless those drivers can produce either:

• An LCV Driver-Training Certificate as evidence of successful completion of an LCV driver training course; or
• An LCV Driver-Training Certificate of Grandfathering, showing that the driver was exempt from the training requirements based on experience, when training was first required in 2004.

Motor carriers must retain all LCV training certificates or certificates of grandfathering in their employees’ Driver Qualification files.

Carriers are allowed to conduct the required training, provided the training program meets the requirements in 49 CFR Part 380, Special Training Requirements and any state or local requirements. Training consists of classroom training and behind-the-wheel practice. All LCV driver-instructors must be qualified according to 380.301 and proof of their qualifications must be retained in the driver-instructor’s Driver Qualification file.

A list of allowable LCV combinations can be found in Appendix C to 49 CFR Part 658.