Motor Carrier
The PUC regulates motor carriers that transport property, passengers or household
goods as well as brokers of passenger transportation between points in Pennsylvania
for compensation. Property carriers (e.g., trucking companies) and charter bus carriers
(seating capacity of more than 15) are regulated for safety and insurance requirements
only. Other passenger services and household goods carriers (moving companies) are
regulated regarding rates, geographical area, customer service, safety and insurance.
Currently, there are approximately 7,500 carriers and passenger brokers operating
in Pennsylvania under the rules of and regulations of the PUC.
Assessment Information - Additional information on Assessments for Passenger
Carriers and Railroads.
UCR
Information - The UCR Act requires motor carriers, leasing companies, freight
forwarders, and brokers that operate in interstate commerce to register with the
program and pay a fee based on the type of business operated.
As of April 10, 2005, taxicab and limousine service in Philadelphia falls under
the jurisdiction of the Philadelphia Parking Authority. For more information, see
our
Philadelphia Taxicab and Limousine page.
PUC-Regulated Transportation
The application process for new motor carrier applicants has been streamlined. Please discard any old application forms and instructions and replace with the new forms and instructions that have a revised date of 9/11. Please submit one (1) original of each filing to the attention of the Secretary's Bureau; DO NOT submit copies to the Compliance Office or the Bureau of Transportation & Safety.
- Property (trucking)
- Household Goods in use (moving companies)
- Taxicabs (except in Philadelphia)
- Scheduled Route Bus Service
- Airport Transfer (transportation to and from airports)
- Paratransit
- Group and Party Service (seating capacity of 15 or less)
- Group and Party Service (seating capacity of more than 15 and includes charter,
special excursion and tour bus)
- Limousines (except in Philadelphia)
- Passenger Brokers
Motor Carrier Services & Enforcement Division
The Motor Carrier Services & Enforcement Division has the responsibility of
ensuring that the above transportation services comply with PUC regulations. To
achieve this goal, carriers are required to:
1. File an application to begin or change their services;
2. Adhere to a strict safety code;
3. Obtain adequate insurance coverage to protect the public;
4. Establish rates that are just and reasonable; and
5. Provide service to all members of the public without discrimination.
Federal Preemption
Motor Carrier of Property
The federal Aviation Authority Act of 1994 preempted states authority to regulate
rates, geographical area and service of motor carriers of property, except for matters
involving safety and insurance. In 1995, the PUC adopted this regulation.
Charter Bus Transportation
On June 9, 1998, the federal Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA
Act) preempted states' authority to regulate rates and geographical area of charter
bus transportation. The commission extended the preemption to include any group
and party carriers using vehicles with seating capacities of more than 15 passengers
including the driver. The PUCs final decision was adopted December 17, 1998. The
commission continues to regulate these carriers for safety and insurance.
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