Complete DOT Inspection Checklist
In this article, we will be taking a deeper look at DOT inspections and what to expect when you get one. Everyone with a CDL has to deal with these, so you better be prepared for when it happens to you so you don’t end up getting fined or put out of service. The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) have a policy to conduct annual inspections of commercial motor vehicles. The main purpose behind these truck inspections is to ensure highway safety by making sure all CMV or commercial motor vehicles are in good condition and have the proper equipment needed. We will be looking closely at what you should expect during a DOT inspection, what the various levels of DOT inspections are, as well as what measures you can and should take to be prepared as a truck driver for a DOT inspection.
What to Expect During a DOT Inspection
During a DOT truck inspection, the DOT inspector will thoroughly check for compliance with the federal motor carrier safety regulations included in a truck inspection checklist to ensure the safety of both the driver and other road users. Some of the key points that will be checked include the verification of driver credentials, motor carrier identification, and a valid license. You should also be prepared to undergo a records check where you will be required to present your duty status, periodic inspection reports, skill performance evaluation certification, medical examiner’s certificate, and your daily vehicle inspection report.
In addition to these checks, the DOT inspector will conduct a thorough examination of your commercial vehicle, paying close attention to critical components such as the brake system, steering mechanism, parking brake, engine compartment, fuel tank functionality, and power steering. Any malfunction or defect found during the inspection can lead to a citation, out-of-service order, or even fines.
To ensure that you are in good shape to pass a DOT inspection, it is important to regularly inspect your commercial vehicle using a DOT inspection checklist. This will help you to identify any potential issues that need to be addressed before a DOT inspection. Additionally, commercial drivers should make it a priority to be familiar with the federal motor carrier safety regulations and ensure that they are in full compliance. By doing so, you can minimize any anxiety or stress associated with a DOT inspection and remain safe on the road.
Inspectors will also be checking critical vehicle components that directly affect vehicle safety to make sure that your truck is in safe operating condition for the road.
What are the Levels of DOT Inspection?
There are six levels of DOT inspection that you should know about and be prepared for. Below we will explore those levels individually and what each of them entails.
Level I: North American Standard Inspection
During a Level I inspection, the DOT inspector will conduct a comprehensive inspection of your commercial vehicle and documentation. This includes important documents such as the vehicle operator’s driver’s license, medical certificate and waiver, hours of service, and previous inspection forms. The inspector will also examine critical vehicle components such as the seat belt, exhaust system, turn signals, tail lamps, headlamps, steering wheel, wheels and rims, coupling devices, and fuel system. Even minor items, such as windshield wipers, must be in proper shape and in good working order for your vehicle to be declared safe on the road.
Level II: Walk-Around Driver/Vehicle Inspection
A Level II inspection involves examining everything in a Level I inspection, except for the parts that require the inspector to get under the truck. During this inspection, the DOT inspector will perform a walk-around inspection of your commercial vehicle to identify any potential issues or defects.
Level III: Driver-Only Inspection
A Level III inspection focuses solely on the vehicle operator. The DOT inspector will take an in-depth look at the driver’s license, medical certification, and daily ELD or paper log to ensure compliance with federal motor carrier safety regulations.
Level IV: Special Inspection
A Level IV inspection is a one-time examination that takes a close look at a specific item. These inspections are typically scheduled ahead of time to check on a previous claim about a vehicle, such as a repair or replacement of a component.
Level V: Vehicle-Only Inspection
A Level V inspection is similar to a Level I inspection, but it is executed without the driver present. During this inspection, the DOT inspector will thoroughly examine all critical vehicle components and documentation.
Level VI: Enhanced NAS Inspection for Radioactive Shipments
The Level VI inspection is specific to those hauling hazardous materials such as radioactive freight. In addition to all the checks performed in a Level I inspection, the Level VI inspection includes additional checks specific to radiological shipments and requirements. The vehicle, driver, and cargo must be declared defect-free before they can continue operating the equipment. On average, this inspection takes about 60 minutes.
How to Prepare for a DOT Inspection
To ensure that you are fully prepared for a DOT inspection, you should pay close attention to the brake system, steering mechanism, parking brake, engine compartment, fuel tank functionality, and power steering of your commercial vehicle. These are critical components that the DOT inspector will thoroughly check to ensure your vehicle is in safe operating condition for the road.
In addition to conducting regular inspections, it is also important to keep a record of duty status, periodic inspection reports, and other necessary documents required by the DOT. Truckers and trucking companies should make it a priority to keep these documents up-to-date and readily accessible.
By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of being placed out of service during a DOT inspection, which can result in lost time, revenue, and a tarnished safety record. Remember, being proactive and diligent about maintaining your equipment and records can go a long way in keeping yourself and others safe on the road.
Our team knows trucking. Have more questions? Give us a call at 913-393-6110
