PROLOGUE In recognition of the need to protect the public from unnecessary hazard and inconvenience, the Virginia General Assembly authorized the Department of Motor Vehicles to promulgate rules and regulations to govern the movement of vehicles and loads which exceed legal limits. Formal training and certification is required for drivers who provide escort services for overdimensional movements. Promoting safety, giving the traveling public advanced warning of the overdimensional load and ensuring the safe passage of the movement itself are the byproducts of the training and certification.

The purpose of this manual is to provide information, including rules and regulations, legal requirements, safety suggestions and reminders that should be helpful to those who conduct escort operations on the highways of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

An understanding of the provisions of this manual and other safe driving rules is essential for certification as an escort driver in Virginia. These should also be prerequisites for employment as an escort driver by firms engaged in transportation of overdimensional loads in Virginia. Failure to provide certified escorts when required by permit is a violation of state law and convictions carry stiff penalties. Keep a copy of this manual in your escort vehicle as a handy reference.

FOREWORD This manual was initially prepared by the Transportation Research Council. The contents of the manual and the certification program have been reviewed and approved by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. The information included is based on research conducted by the Transportation Research Council, a review of state traffic laws, and regulations promulgated by the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Table of Contents

Section 1 — Escort Driver Certification
General Requirements for Providing Overdimensional Load Escort Service.................................3 Certification Required ........................................................3 Purpose..............................................................................3 Applicability.......................................................................3

Section 5 — Equipment for Escort Vehicles
Mandatory Equipment .......................................................6 Flags and Amber Flashing Lights .........................................7

Section 6 — Escort Procedures
Before the Trip Begins ........................................................7 During the Trip ..................................................................7

Section 2 — Certification Program
Where to Apply .................................................................3 What to Bring With You .....................................................3 Escort Driver’s Test .............................................................3 Notification of Test Results .................................................4 Testing and Certification Fees .............................................4 Remote Testing ..................................................................4 Duplicate Certificates and Change of Address and Name ............................................4 Expiration and Renewal .....................................................4 Certificate Revocation and Suspension ...............................4 Important Reminders .........................................................4

Section 7 — Methods of Flagging Traffic
Duties and Responsibilities.................................................9 Required Equipment ..........................................................9 Flagging Devices ................................................................9 Where to Stand .................................................................10 Flagging Procedures ...........................................................10

Section 3 — Safe Driving Practices
General Rules of the Road .................................................5