Department of Transportation inspections are the best way to ensure commercial vehicle safety on the roads. As required by state and federal law, DOT inspections are annual and even spontaneous at weigh stations or roadside by state police officers. There are various levels of DOT inspection and it’s important to be prepared for any degree of inspection. Are you prepared for your next DOT inspection, scheduled or otherwise?
Whether you’re prepping for your annual Department of Transportation inspection or brushing up on your requirements in case of a random roadside inspection, use these tips to pass your next DOT inspection with a 100%.
As a vehicle operator, it’s vital that a long list of documents included but not limited to are available for the inspector to validate:
- vehicle operator’s commercial driver’s license (CDL)
- medical certificate confirming the operator passed their annual DOT physical exam
- insurance coverage information
- driver training records
- and medical card or waiver, if needed
- driver alcohol and drug testing records
- last 12-months vehicle maintenance records
- vehicle equipment information and registration
- driver logs for previous 6-months
- accident files, if applicable
Additionally, all equipment must be in good working order. Items commonly checked are:
- seatbelts
- lights
- windshield wipers
- tires and related parts
- brakes
- exhaust and fuel systems
- steering
- electrical
The list can seem daunting, but ensuring a pass on your DOT inspection is a matter of safety and even a determination of job or no job. It’s very important that as a driver for a commercial vehicle, you are ensuring compliance, even in the lull of after the official DOT inspection.