Hot shot trucking requirements: CDL, USDOT number, medical card and logs

Checked against official sources · Last reviewed October 6, 2026

In this guide, hot shot hauling (or hotshot trucking) means a pickup pulling a gooseneck or flatbed trailer. Many of the federal rules that apply turn on two weight lines: 10,001 lbs brings in the USDOT number, medical card and hours-of-service rules for interstate work, and 26,001 lbs combined, with a trailer rated over 10,000 lbs, brings in the Class A CDL. [1][2][3][4][5]

When a hot shot rig needs a CDL

Under federal rules, a combination needs a Class A CDL when its combined weight rating (GCWR) is 26,001 lbs or more and the trailer is rated over 10,000 lbs.

The test uses the weight rating or the actual weight, whichever is greater. So a rig can cross the line by being loaded heavier than its ratings, even if the stickers say otherwise.

A non-hazmat freight rig that stays under the Class A and Class B thresholds does not need a CDL under federal rules. A Class C CDL is only for vehicles carrying 16 or more passengers or placarded hazardous materials. [5][6]

Worked example: CDL or no CDL?

Under the CDL rules, the combination's gross combination weight rating (GCWR) is the greater of the value on the truck's FMVSS certification label (if one is shown) or the highest sum of the truck's and trailer's ratings or weights. Then check the trailer's own rating or weight against 10,000 lbs.

For example, a pickup rated 14,000 lbs towing a trailer rated 24,000 lbs has ratings that add up to 38,000 lbs, so its GCWR is at least 38,000 lbs. That is 26,001 lbs or more and the trailer alone is rated over 10,000 lbs, so under the Group A rule the driver needs a Class A CDL. (These are example numbers for the calculation, not figures from the rule.)

A combination whose rating and actual weight both stay under 26,001 lbs isn't Group A, and for non-hazmat freight it needs no CDL. [5][6]

Entry-level driver training for a new CDL

If you're getting a Class A or B CDL for the first time, or upgrading to one, you must first complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) from a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry. This applies to anyone who got a commercial learner's permit on or after February 7, 2022.

The theory and behind-the-wheel parts must be finished within one year of completing the first part. When you pass, the training provider submits your certification to FMCSA through the registry. [16][17][18]

USDOT number and medical card at 10,001 lbs

For the federal safety rules, a commercial motor vehicle is any vehicle or combination with a weight rating or actual weight of 10,001 lbs or more, whichever is greater.

A company operating these vehicles in interstate commerce must register with FMCSA and have a USDOT number, and the number must be displayed on each truck. FMCSA charges nothing for the USDOT number; see USDOT number.

Every driver of a commercial motor vehicle, CDL or not, must be medically certified as physically qualified to drive. You must be re-examined and certified at least every 24 months, and some drivers, such as those with insulin-treated diabetes, every 12 months. See DOT physical. [1][2][3][11][19][20]

Operating authority and insurance

If you haul freight owned by others, for pay, across state lines, you generally also need interstate operating authority (an MC number). FMCSA charges $300 for each type of authority.

For-hire carriers of non-hazardous freight in vehicles of 10,001 lbs GVWR or more must carry at least $750,000 in bodily injury and property damage liability. Your insurer files proof with FMCSA. [8][9][21][22]

How to start a hot shot trucking business: a checklist

• Work out your rig's combined rating (the truck's label GCWR or the sum of the truck's and trailer's ratings, whichever is greater) and its loaded weight, and check them against the 10,001-lb and 26,001-lb lines.
• If the rig needs a Class A CDL and it is your first Class A or B CDL (or an upgrade to one), complete entry-level driver training from a provider on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry.
• For interstate work at 10,001 lbs or more, register for a free USDOT number, mark your truck, and get your medical card.
• If you haul other people's federally regulated freight for pay across state lines, you generally need operating authority ($300 per type), and your insurer files proof of liability coverage: at least $750,000 for non-hazardous freight in vehicles rated 10,001 lbs GVWR or more.
• Track hours of service on an ELD unless an exception applies.
• Check whether IFTA, IRP or a state highway use tax applies to your rig.

Sources: [1][2][3][5][8][9][11][12][14][16][19][21][22][25][26]

Hours of service and ELDs

Hours-of-service rules apply to hot shot drivers whether or not they need a CDL. There is a separate 150 air-mile short-haul exception for drivers of property-carrying vehicles that don't require a CDL.

Unless an exception applies, the carrier must install an ELD and have each driver use it to record duty status. See hours of service and the ELD mandate. [4][12]

Drug and alcohol testing if you need a CDL

DOT drug and alcohol testing applies to drivers who need a CDL to operate a commercial motor vehicle, and to their employers. If your rig needs a CDL, see DOT drug testing and the Clearinghouse. [27]

Fuel tax, registration and state highway taxes

Weight also decides which tax and registration programs apply. IFTA fuel tax licensing and IRP apportioned plates cover, among other vehicles, combinations weighing over 26,000 lbs that run in two or more member jurisdictions.

New York's highway use tax starts lower: it requires a certificate and decal for each truck, tractor or other self-propelled vehicle with a gross weight over 18,000 lbs. See state weight-distance taxes. [14][25][26]

Common questions