Alabama CMV Compliance Guide
AL DOT regulations for commercial motor vehicles
ALEA Motor Carrier Safety UnitOfficial AL DOT websiteOverview
Alabama's motor carrier enforcement is handled by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). The state participates fully in the FMCSA Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP) and conducts both roadside inspections and carrier compliance reviews. Alabama uses the North American Standard Inspection (NASI) procedures and has active fixed-scale and mobile inspection operations along I-65, I-20, and I-10 corridors.
Inspection & Enforcement Program
Alabama operates 9 permanent weigh stations and conducts mobile inspections on major freight corridors. The state performs Level I through Level III inspections and participates in national enforcement campaigns including Operation Safe Driver and International Roadcheck. Alabama law enforcement has the authority to issue citations for both state and federal violations at the roadside.
Weight Limits & Oversize/Overweight
Alabama's maximum gross vehicle weight on Interstate highways is 80,000 lbs, consistent with federal limits. On non-Interstate state routes, weight limits may be lower and are posted by bridge and road capacity. Alabama allows up to 20,000 lbs per single axle and 34,000 lbs per tandem axle on the Interstate system. Oversize/overweight permits are issued by ALDOT.
Alabama-Specific Requirements
- Alabama requires a separate state fuel tax decal for intrastate carriers not operating under IFTA.
- The state enforces a 55-foot overall trailer length limit on non-designated highways.
- Alabama participates in the Performance and Registration Information Systems Management (PRISM) program, linking carrier safety performance to vehicle registration.
Contact
ALEA Motor Carrier Safety Unit: (334) 353-1471
Federal Requirements That Apply in Alabama
In addition to Alabama-specific regulations, all federal DOT and FMCSA requirements apply to commercial vehicles operating in AL. These guides cover each federal requirement in detail:
This information is provided as a general reference. State regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the Alabama DOT or your compliance advisor before relying on any information presented here.