The U.S. DOT’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is proposing a rule change to modernize recordkeeping for hazmat carriers.
Currently, motor and vessel carriers must carry a paper copy of their PHMSA Certificate of Registration onboard under 49 CFR § 107.620. The new rule would:
- Allow electronic copies (e.g., on a tablet or smartphone)
- Require quick access to the certificate and all related records—whether digital or paper—upon request by inspectors
Why the Change?
- Modernization: Reflects how carriers use digital tools
- Efficiency: Reduces paperwork, printing, and storage costs
- Flexibility: Let carriers choose the format that works best for them
- Reduced burden: PHMSA expects this to lower compliance costs
What’s next: Public comments are being accepted through September 2, 2025. Carriers, shippers, and industry stakeholders are encouraged to weigh in on how the rule could impact operations.
What Carriers Should Do Now
If finalized, this rule will only affect the registration certificate and related records, not other hazmat documentation like shipping papers or training logs.
In preparation, carriers should:
- Ensure their digital recordkeeping systems are secure and accessible
- Be able to present documents quickly via mobile devices during inspections
- Put cybersecurity safeguards in place to prevent tampering or loss
Bottom Line
This proposed rule supports a shift toward digital compliance tools. If adopted, it will streamline operations for hazmat carriers without weakening regulatory oversight.