Trucking: Hot Shots, hot shot trucks, fmcsa

Question
I am in the process of putting on some hot shot trucks, my questions are:
1.  Do drivers have to have CDL's
2.  Do they have to keep logs?
3.  What are the insurance requirements?

Any information will be helpfull

Answer
Ken,
1. the CDL requirement is based on size of truck.
http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration-licensing/cdl/cdl.htm
I suspect most hot shot trucks will be under the size required for a CDL.

2. I could not find an exception to log requirements except the short haul provision:
New Short-Haul Provision: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/topics/hos/hos-2005.htm
Drivers of property-carrying CMVs which do not require a Commercial Driver's License for operation and who operate within a 150 air-mile radius of their normal work reporting location:

   * May drive a maximum of 11 hours after coming on duty following 10 or more consecutive hours off duty.
   * Are not required to keep records-of-duty status (RODS).
   * May not drive after the 14th hour after coming on duty 5 days a week or after the 16th hour after coming on duty 2 days a week.

Employer must:

   * Maintain and retain accurate time records for a period of 6 months showing the time the duty period began, ended, and total hours on duty each day in place of RODS.

The FMCSA is in the process of issuing revisions to HOS so check this website or others to keep current:
http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/topics/hos/hos-2005.htm

3. Insurance required by FMCSA is also related to GVW over 10,000 lbs.
http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/administration/fmcsr/fmcsrruletext.as...


And lastly, individual states may have different requirements in each of tehse areas so it best to check with a local expert.  Hope this helps.
Jim.