Most people have seen at some time a vehicle with a very large load that has is accompanied by an escort or a flagger. In New York, the ability to act as an escort driver requires special certification that is separate from and in addition to the primary driver’s license per the Department of Motor Vehicles. Persons who hold escort driver certifications can lose their privileges to escort oversized loads in certain circumstances and must follow not only the specific rules pertaining to escorting but also all vehicle traffic laws in New York.
According to the DMV, an escort driver certification is required for anyone who provides either escort or flag service for a vehicle load that meets any of the following criteria:
- Extends more than 10 feet off of the vehicle.
- Is higher than 14 feet.
- Is longer than 80 feet.
- Is wider than 12 feet.
Exceptions to this requirement are made for military convoys or state government vehicles.
In order to qualify for an escort driver certification, a person must be at least 21 years old and have either a current, valid New York State driver’s license or a valid license from another state with the privilege to drive in New York. If a driver’s license is suspended or revoked due to convictions for any traffic violations, the escort driver certification is not valid during the suspension or revocation period. In addition, some fines or other penalties can be assessed to people who violate designated safety protocol for escort services.
This information is not intended to provide legal advice but general information regarding escort driver certifications for oversized loads in New York.