Vehicle Inspection FAQs

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Vehicle Inspection FAQs

How does someone become a qualified inspector for the annual vehicle inspections?

To meet the federal requirements, it is the motor carrier's responsibility to insure and show evidence that the individual conducting these inspections understands the inspection criteria in §393 and Appendix G, can identify defective components, is knowledgeable of how to go about performing an inspection, and is capable of performing the inspection by reason of experience or both. (396.19)

Does the Daily Vehicle Inspection Report's second drivers line need to be signed if no defects are identified on the report?

No. The second signature is for acknowledging a review of the report when defects are listed and to verify that a mechanic or other company official made an appropriate certification of repairs. (396.13) No, that is not part of the pre-trip inspection.

How long do we have to keep the daily inspection reports?

Three months from the date the inspection report was written. (§396.11(c)(2))

Is a daily inspection required of our vehicles?

A daily vehicle inspection is required to be performed on vehicles with a gvwr or combination gvwr of 10,001 pounds or more. Each day a vehicle is operated, an inspection must be completed and a report filled out by each driver who operates the vehicle.

Can your Annual Inspection Decal, number 1404, be used for both our tractor and trailer, or just the tractor?

Our number 1404 is designed to be used on tractors, trailers, straight trucks, and buses. When you have a combination tractor/trailer, you must complete one annual inspection decal for the tractor, and a separate one for the trailer, along with an Annual Inspection Report for each.

If my truck is over 10,001 pounds but the trailer I am hauling is under 10,001 pounds, does the trailer have to be inspected?

Your trailer would be required to be inspected because your vehicle has a combined vehicle weight rating over 10,001 pounds.

In addition to the inspection records required by DOT, can I keep original invoices for maintenance service in separate files and produce them upon request from an auditor?

Yes. You may keep them in separate files, as long as you are able to produce them upon request.

Can our mechanics do DOT inspections on our trucks?

Yes, as long as they comply with the certification requirements in the DOT regulations under §396.19.

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This page was last update: 06/17/2009