How To Ace Your Next DOT Inspection
Ready for some spring cleaning? As brighter weather warms up much of the country, professional drivers should set aside time this month to prepare for another rite of passage: an annual Department of Transportation (DOT) inspection.
Required by federal regulations, these checkups ensure that drivers and their vehicles meet all Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations. An on-the-spot inspection can happen anywhere — on highways and small country roads, at weigh stations or at truck stops. Most often, officials conduct DOT Level I inspections, examining your truck’s exterior and interior.
These inspections take at least 30 minutes, and few drivers look forward to them. But by preparing in advance, you can pass your inspection and get back on the road faster. Follow these strategies to help ace your next DOT inspection:
Thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections must be completed daily on any CMV you operate.
Check all light bulbs. Inoperable lights are one of the most common vehicle out-of-service (OOS) violations. Test all headlights, brake lights, high beams, turn signals and hazard lights, and replace any burnt-out bulbs.
Inspect your tires. Failing to maintain proper tread depth is another common reason inspectors take vehicles off the road. Check the wear on your tires and use an air pressure gauge to ensure they’re properly inflated.
Prepare your paperwork. DOT inspectors will ask to see your CDL license and medical exam card, so make sure neither is expired. Also, keep your logs (paper and electronic) up to date, and make sure you don’t exceed hours-of-service laws. Be sure to include your insurance card, registration and periodic inspection sticker location, as they are often overlooked.
Look for leaks. Check all lines for cracks or tears, and look for evidence of oil and fuel leaks, both of which can cause vehicle OOS violations. Top off all fluids and make sure your vehicle’s heating and cooling systems are in proper order.
Examine your braking systems. Test your truck’s parking brake and air brakes, and check for signs of worn brake pads.
Perform a thorough once-over. Check for any defects in the coupling system. Examine your semi-trailer thoroughly to make sure the frame, shocks, mudflaps, slack adjusters and push rods are in good shape. Properly secure all cargo.
Don’t forget the interior. Keeping a clean cab improves your odds of passing an inspection. Remember to check your seatbelt, horn and windshield wipers while you’re cleaning your truck’s interior. And always wear your seatbelt.
If you notice any deficiencies during an inspection, report them to your carrier immediately so they can be repaired.
