The program would apply to carriers hauling Class 7 radioactive material, more than 55 lbs. of explosives, more than one liter per package of materials deemed poisonous by inhalation or more than 3,500 gal. of liquefied natural gas.

The rule would make DOT establish a safety permit program and a motor carrier whould have to hold a safety permit to transport certain hazardous materials in commerce. It would also carry out a statutory provision to issue regulations requiring a pre-trip inspection and certification of a motor vehicle used to transport a highway route controlled quantity of a Class 7 radioactive material.

FMCSA's proposal would not require states that issue permits for the intrastate transportation of hazardous materials to use uniform forms and procedures, or require each state to register all persons who transport hazardous materials intrastate.

Written comments about the proposed rule will be accepted by FMCSA until October 20.