A DOT (Department of Transportation) inspection is a comprehensive review of a commercial vehicle to ensure it meets all federal safety and operational standards. The most common is the Level 1 Inspection, which includes both the driver and vehicle.

The current DOT inspection guidelines are governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) under 49 CFR Part 396, which outlines requirements for the inspection, repair, and maintenance of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). These guidelines are essential for ensuring vehicle safety and compliance with federal regulations.

Key Inspection Guidelines

• Periodic Inspections (§ 396.17)

• CMVs must undergo a comprehensive inspection. At least once every 12 months.
• The inspection must cover all items specified in Appendix G of the FMCSR.
• A record of the inspection, including a certification, must be maintained by the motor carrier. CSA Compliance, Safety, Accountability+4FMCSA+4CSA Compliance, Safety, Accountability+4

• Daily Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs) (§ 396.11)

• Drivers are required to complete a post-trip inspection report at the end of each driving day.
• The report should identify any defects or deficiencies that could affect the safe operation of the vehicle.
• Motor carriers must ensure that any identified issues are corrected before the vehicle is operated again. FMCSA+1FMCSA+1FMCSA+4CSA Compliance, Safety, Accountability+4CSA Compliance, Safety, Accountability+4

• Systematic Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance (§ 396.3)

• Motor carriers must have a program in place for the systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all CMVs under their control.
• Records of inspections, repairs, and maintenance must be maintained for each vehicle. FMCSA+17CSA Compliance, Safety, Accountability+17CSA Compliance, Safety, Accountability+17

• Roadside Inspections (§ 396.9)

• Authorized officials may conduct unannounced roadside inspections of CMVs.
• If a vehicle is found to have violations, it may be placed out of service until the issues are corrected.
• Drivers must provide the inspection report to their motor carrier, and the carrier must correct any violations and certify the action taken within 15 days. FMCSA

For more detailed information and resources, you can refer to the FMCSA’s Motor Carrier Safety Planner, which provides comprehensive guidance on compliance with federal safety regulations.

D.O.T. inspection at TruckMax.

At TruckMax we focus on ensuring the truck itself is safe, roadworthy, and compliant—often through certified DOT inspectors on-site.

Here’s what it typically includes:

Vehicle Inspection Covers:

• Brakes (service brakes, parking brakes, hydraulic system)
• Lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals, warning lights)
• Steering and suspension
• Tires, wheels, and rims
• Windshield wipers and glass
• Mirrors
• Fuel and exhaust systems
• Frame and trailer
• Coupling devices (if applicable)
• Emergency equipment (triangles, fire extinguisher, spare fuses)

Driver Inspection Covers (not performed at TruckMax):

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Driver’s daily log and hours of service
• Seat belt use
• Alcohol or drug use indicators
• Vehicle inspection reports

Staying on top of DOT inspections is essential to avoid penalties and keep your operation running safely.

Keep your truck road ready and compliant with a certified DOT Inspection at TruckMax Homestead! Our expert technicians ensure your vehicle meets all federal safety standards—fast, thorough, and done right the first time. Conveniently located in Homestead, we get you back on the road with confidence. Don’t risk costly fines or downtime—trust TruckMax for your next DOT Inspection. Stop by or call today to schedule your service!