DOT (Department of Transportation) roadside inspections are safety checks performed by authorized inspectors to ensure that commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and drivers comply with federal and state regulations. These inspections help improve road safety by identifying and addressing unsafe practices or conditions.
There are seven levels of inspections, each with different levels of scrutiny:
Level I: North American Standard Inspection
The most comprehensive inspection. Includes checking the driver’s credentials, the vehicle’s mechanical condition, and compliance with regulations.
Level II: Walk-Around Driver/Vehicle Inspection
Similar to Level I but without the inspector physically getting under the vehicle.
Level III: Driver/Credential Inspection
Focuses solely on the driver’s documentation, hours of service (HOS), and compliance with laws.
Level IV: Special Inspections
These are conducted as part of a study or research, often focusing on specific items or trends.
Level V: Vehicle-Only Inspection
Conducted without the driver present, typically at a terminal or maintenance facility.
Level VI: Enhanced NAS Inspection for Radioactive Shipments
Applies to vehicles transporting radioactive materials requiring special permits.
Level VII: Jurisdictional Mandated Inspection
A specialized inspection based on jurisdictional rules, often applied to certain types of passenger vehicles like buses or limos.
Driver-Related:
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Medical certificates
Hours of Service (logbooks or ELD records)
Drug/alcohol testing records
Seatbelt use
Vehicle-Related:
Brakes
Tires and wheels
Lights
Suspension
Load securement
Exhaust systems
No Violations: You pass the inspection and receive a clean report.
Violations Found: Minor issues may be recorded without immediate penalties but could impact your safety score.
Out of Service (OOS): Severe violations can result in the vehicle or driver being placed out of service until the issue is resolved.
Keep all documentation organized and easily accessible.
Regularly inspect your vehicle for mechanical and safety issues.
Ensure compliance with Hours of Service rules.
Follow pre-trip and post-trip inspection protocols.
Be polite and cooperative with inspectors.
Consistent preparation can reduce the likelihood of violations and improve safety compliance. Would you like more details on a specific aspect? Find more information visit at: https://www.cdlmanager.com/compliance.php