Annual DOT inspections are a critical part of any trucking company’s vehicle maintenance program. But, an average of over 133,000 trucks are cited for Operating a CMV without proof of a periodic inspection (CFR 396.17c) each year.
The real number is closer to 140,000 trucks when you take the COVID 19 enforcement slump out of the equation.
In fact, this is the 2nd most common vehicle maintenance violation issued within the entire FMCSA CSA system! (Inoperable Required Lamp is numero uno, by the way).
Almost 12,000 trucks a month are cited for operating without an annual DOT inspection
Let’s jump right in!
What Is an Annual DOT Inspection?
An annual dot inspection is a yearly checkup on a commercial vehicle to ensure that it is safe and compliant with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) standards.
During this detailed inspection, a qualified mechanic will review all of the major interior and exterior components of your rig. If everything is good to go, we’ll sign off on your annual inspection report, complete your annual inspection sticker, grab your cash and you’ll be on your way.
These are different than your typical Level 2 or 3 inspections that are completed during a roadside inspection or at a weigh station.
You won’t get a DVER or Driver/Vehicle Examination Report for this inspection, it won’t count against your CSA BASIC scores and you won’t receive a CVSA sticker as a result either.
These are essentially a DOT Level 1 inspection that isn’t performed by a State or Federal officer.
In fact, a common question that is asked is” Can a Level 1 Inspection Count as a DOT Annual Inspection?”
Absolutely! If your truck and trailer pass a DOT Level 1 inspection (or a Level 5 DOT inspection), you can count that as your annual DOT inspection!
Vehicles That Require an Annual DOT Inspection:
Per FMCSA CFR 396 regulations of periodic inspections, there are a number of vehicles that require an annual DOT inspection, including:
DOT inspections are designed to ensure that these types of vehicles are safe to operate on public roads. The inspection process involves a thorough examination of the vehicle, and may include things like checking the brakes, tires, and other critical components.
How Long Does an FMCSA Annual Inspection Take?
A full FMCSA annual inspection should take anywhere from 30 minutes up to about 1.5 hours, depending on the shop and how many technicians are completing the review.
Like so many other things, you get what you pay for. There isn’t really a “correct” answer for how long your annual inspection should take. Grab a coke and a smile, you’re going to be there for a while.
Pro Tip:
Drivers must log their time being inspected correctly!
Remember, drivers are only “Off-Duty” if they:
Are relieved of all duties and responsibilities, are free to leave the vehicle, and are free to do activities of their own choosing
What Does an FMCSA annual inspection Consist Of ?
To get your vehicle inspected, you’ll need to take it to an acceptable inspection facility like ours.
Our inspection process typically takes between 30 minutes to 90 minutes.
An annual dot inspection is a thorough inspection of a commercial vehicle to ensure that it is in compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
This comprehensive check ensures that each truck, bus and trailer meet all Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements.
This includes a visual inspection of the vehicle’s exterior and interior, as well as a test of its braking, steering, and lighting systems. The DOT inspector will also check the vehicle’s tires, wheels, and suspension components for any signs of wear or damage.
Even the windshield wipers will be inspected!
Specific Vehicle Components Inspected
The following vehicle components or systems will be inspected during your annual DOT inspection:
Once this major periodic inspection us complete, the inspector will give you a DOT annual inspection form and may complete DOT Inspection Stickers for you.
Pro Tip:
Be sure that the Annual Inspection Form is fully completed and have the inspector complete a “Qualified Inspector Form” as well.
Officers have requested these documents during a few DOT audits that we have been a part of recently.
It’s a great idea to always keep a copy of your annual DOT inspection form in the truck.
You either have to have the annual DOT inspection form OR a completed DOT annual inspection sticker on the CMV at all times.
You must have one or the other.
Not having a DOT annual inspection form in the truck (or a DOT annual inspection sticker on the truck, bus or trailer) is essentially the same thing as not getting it done in the first place to the FMCSA.
They’re really big on “if you didn’t document it or can’t prove it, then it didn’t happen”.
The FMCSA and State DOT officers are huge sticklers about DOT maintenance record requirements!
DOT Annual Inspection Sticker Requirements
All commercial vehicles do not require the annual DOT inspection sticker.
But these can be handy if you don’t have the annual inspection form in the truck. These are especially helpful for your trailers!
If the inspector doesn’t complete your annual inspection stickers (also called “annual vehicle inspection labels “) for you.
How your Annual DOT Inspection Sticker Should be Filled Out
You will also need to provide your company’s name, address, and contact information.
Be sure it's written clearly and in permanent marker!
Where To Put FMCSA annual inspection Stickers
There are a few different options depending on your vehicle and preference.
However, some common locations for placing the annual inspection sticker include the inside of the windshield on the driver’s side, or on the bumper near the license plate. Most put trailer inspection stickers on the front left of the trailer and closer to the pigtail hookups.
Immediate Action Step!
Have each of your drivers take a picture of their DOT Annual Inspection form or FMCSA annual inspection sticker with their smartphone and send them to you.
This will verify your current level of compliance and help identify any forms or stickers that need to be replaced ASAP!
Likely not, unless you qualify as a certified annual inspector under CFR 396.11. According to FMCSA regulations in 396.17(d), the motor carrier (or Intermodal Equipment Provider) is responsible for conducting the mandatory annual DOT vehicle inspection of their equipment.
However, as many motor carriers have shifted to an independent contractor model, they often outsource vehicle inspections and repairs.
Nowadays, most trucking companies do not employ qualified mechanics on their teams. As a result, the FMCSA has broadened the definition of who is legally permitted to carry out these inspections.
LEGAL REPERCUSSIONS
An inspector who fails to conduct a DOT inspection properly or violates regulations can face several legal repercussions, including:
1. **Fines and Penalties**: Inspectors may be subject to monetary fines imposed by regulatory agencies for failing to comply with inspection standards.
2. **License Suspension or Revocation**: If an inspector is found to be negligent or fraudulent in their inspections, they may lose their certification or license to conduct inspections.
3. **Civil Liability**: If an improperly conducted inspection leads to an accident or injury, the inspector could be held liable in civil court for damages.
4. **Criminal Charges**: In cases of willful misconduct or fraud, inspectors may face criminal charges, which could result in imprisonment or additional fines.
5. **Reputational Damage**: Inspectors may also suffer damage to their professional reputation, which can impact their career and future employment opportunities.
It's essential for inspectors to adhere strictly to all regulations and standards to avoid these potential repercussions.
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