Getting ready for commercial vehicle inspections doesn’t have to be stressful. When you know what inspectors look for and prepare properly, you can pass inspections and avoid costly violations. This DOT inspection checklist helps you stay ready and keep your truck on the road. For professional DOT signs that meet regulations, check out our selection.
What Types of Inspections Happen?
There are three main types of inspections you might face:
Level I inspections are the most detailed. Inspectors check your entire vehicle, including getting underneath to look at brakes, suspension, and other parts. They also review all your paperwork and credentials.
Level II inspections cover most of the same items but inspectors don’t go under the vehicle. They still check your documents and most vehicle systems.
Level III inspections only focus on your paperwork – license, medical card, logbooks, and other required documents.
Most roadside inspections are Level I or II, so you need to keep both your truck and paperwork ready at all times.
Key Vehicle Systems Inspectors Check
Brakes
Brake problems cause the most violations because they’re so dangerous. Inspectors check:
- Air pressure levels and warning systems
- Brake adjustment and lining thickness
- Hoses and connections for leaks
- All brake components for wear or damage
Check your brakes daily during pre-trip inspections. Listen for air leaks, test warning systems, and have qualified mechanics service your brakes regularly.
Lights and Electrical
Every light on your truck must work perfectly. This includes headlights, tail lights, turn signals, brake lights, and all marker lights. Reflectors must be clean and in the right spots. Even one burned-out bulb can get you a violation.
Carry spare bulbs and check all lights before each trip. Replace any that don’t work immediately.
Tires
Inspectors measure tire tread depth carefully. You need at least 4/32 inch on steering wheels and 2/32 inch on other tires. They also look for:
- Cuts, bulges, or exposed cords
- Proper tire sizes that match on each axle
- Tires rated for your vehicle’s weight
Replace worn tires before they fail inspection standards.
DOT Truck Driver Requirements
Your paperwork must be current and organized. Keep these documents ready:
Commercial Driver’s License: Must be valid with proper endorsements for your truck and cargo type.
Medical Certificate: Must be current and easy to find. Expired medical cards create violations even if your truck is perfect.
Hours of Service Logs: Whether paper or electronic, your logs must be complete and accurate. Inspectors know the rules well and spot mistakes quickly.
Vehicle Documents: Registration, insurance proof, and inspection certificates must all be current.
Following DOT Safety Regulations
Many violations come from small problems that are easy to fix:
- Missing or broken marker lights
- Torn mudflaps or missing reflective tape
- Oil leaks or loose connections
- Cracked windshields
- Wrong or missing company lettering
Your company name and number must appear on both sides of your truck in letters at least 2 inches tall. This follows DOT truck inspection requirements and shows you pay attention to details.
How to Prepare Daily
Use the same checklist that inspectors use during your pre-trip inspection:
- Check all lights – headlights, tail lights, turn signals, markers
- Inspect tires – tread depth, damage, proper inflation
- Test brakes – air pressure, leaks, adjustment
- Look for fluid leaks – oil, coolant, power steering
- Check windshield – cracks, chips, clear view
- Verify paperwork – license, medical card, logs, registration
Keep your truck clean and well-maintained. While cleanliness doesn’t guarantee passing, it shows you care about your equipment.
During an Inspection
When selected for inspection:
- Pull over safely and turn off your engine
- Present your license, medical certificate, and logbook when asked
- Stay nearby to answer questions but don’t interfere
- Be polite and professional
- Answer honestly and ask for clarification if needed
If you get violations, accept them professionally. Ask about correction procedures and timeframes. Arguing rarely helps and might make things worse.
After the Inspection
If you pass without violations, you might get a windshield decal good for three months. This may reduce your chances of being selected again soon.
Any violations must be fixed within the specified time. Serious problems must be repaired before you can drive again. Keep records of all repairs to show during future inspections.
Final Tips
Think of inspections as safety checks, not punishment. Inspectors want to keep roads safe for everyone. When you follow this checklist regularly and maintain your equipment properly, inspections become routine rather than stressful.
For durable DOT signs, custom truck markings, and regulatory-compliant graphics, our printing specialists have you covered. Good preparation, professional behavior, and proper maintenance help you pass inspections and keep your business running smoothly.
