If the California DMV is requiring you to get a weightmaster certificate to register your out of state commercial vehicle then you will need to locate a public scale near you.
There are 3 resources that we recommend to locate one:
- Google.com – Use this amazing tool that will allow you to locate a public scale near you. Type in “public scale near me” and you will most likely find one right away.
- The California Department of Food and Agriculture website – this government entity is who licenses the public scales that you need to take your commercial vehicle to. They have a list of the public scales in California. Note: this list they have on their website is limited and does NOT show the full list of public scales. Here is the CDFA.CA.GOV website to check out the list.
- Penske – This private entity has created a public scales locator. It’s very interesting to me to see a public entity that has developed this website for the exclusive purpose to locate a public scale. I have seen the list in my area and it is very thorough and complete. Click here to check out the Penske Public Scale Locator.
Tip: Most public scales are at or near a trucker’s stop. Additionally, many garbage companies are public scales as well.
Four tips to follow before you leave the scales:
- Make sure to let the person that is doing the job that this is for the California DMV – the scales can provide you with two different types of weight slips – the one that you want is the one that says WEIGHTMASTER CERTIFICATE – one is shown below.
- Make sure that the FULL VIN (vehicle identification number) is listed on the slip.
- Make sure that the TARE or EMPTY weight of the vehicle is shown.
- This particular tip helps smaller vehicles: The California DMV will charge you based on the weight of your vehicle – the heavier your vehicle the more you pay. We suggest that you go in with a close to empty tank and also to make sure you are not carrying a load.
