In some instances, commercial fleets, leasing companies, and truck dealers that install bodies or equipment on new vehicles may not consider themselves vehicle manufacturers. However, under U.S. and Canadian motor vehicle safety regulations, organizations that perform work on new vehicles are considered manufacturers and have vehicle safety certification responsibilities as a result.
This free reference guide explains one of the most common areas of confusion surrounding vehicle safety certification: whether an organization is considered a manufacturer (and therefore responsible for vehicle certification) by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or Transport Canada.
Inside, you’ll learn:
- Why certification requirements are based on new vehicles that have installed bodies or equipment — not the type of business you operate
- When organizations may be considered manufacturers under federal regulations in the U.S. and Canada
- The limited situations where vehicles (not companies) may be exempt from certification requirements
- Common examples of when certification responsibilities apply
- When the vehicle certification process ends — and when compliance obligations continue
Whether you’re a commercial fleet, leasing company, truck dealer, manufacturer or vehicle upfitter, this publication can help you better understand your responsibilities and avoid common compliance misconceptions. It’s also a useful resource to share with customers and others who have questions about vehicle certification requirements.