Roadside inspections are conducted by law enforcement officials to ensure that commercial motor vehicles comply with safety regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA).
There are three primary levels of roadside inspections:
Level I – North American Standard Inspection
This is the most comprehensive inspection, covering both the driver and the vehicle. It includes:
- Driver credentials (CDL, medical certificate, HOS logs)
- Alcohol and drug compliance
- Full vehicle inspection (brakes, tires, lights, etc.)
Level II – Walk-Around Inspection
This inspection includes a review of driver documents and a visual inspection of the vehicle without physically going underneath.
Level III – Driver-Only Inspection
Focuses solely on driver compliance, including:
- License and medical certification
- Hours-of-Service records
- Drug and alcohol compliance
Passing inspections can result in a CVSA decal, which may reduce the likelihood of future inspections. However, violations can negatively impact CSA scores and lead to fines or OOS orders.
Preparation is key. Drivers should conduct thorough pre-trip inspections, maintain accurate records, and ensure compliance with all regulations.
Roadside inspections play a vital role in maintaining highway safety and ensuring that only compliant vehicles operate on public roads.
