As a fleet owner or truck driver, you are likely familiar with undergoing annual Department of Transportation (DOT) inspections on commercial motor vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds. The importance of this process is extreme, and that is why it is advised to know more about the six different levels of DOT inspections that exist.
It is crucial to be prepared for this check-up, as it can take place at any time during the year and have specific requirements. It can be performed at various levels, with each level increasing in scope and thoroughness. Whether you have undergone many of them in the past or are new to the process, it is helpful to understand all the different levels and what they entail.
That is why we have prepared this text for you, intending to provide an overview of the six levels of DOT inspections to assist all drivers in preparing for them.
Level One: North American Standard Inspection
This is a comprehensive examination of both the driver and their vehicle. The DOT official conducting the procedure will verify the driver’s documents, such as their license, medical certificates, logs, and Hazmat endorsements, as well as check for drug or alcohol impairment. The official will also scan the vehicle’s cargo and various components, including the seat belt, brakes, suspension, tires, windshield wipers, headlamps, turn signals, steering wheel, and fuel systems. This takes 45 to 60 minutes to be performed.
Level Two: Walk-Around Inspection
A Level 2 Department of Transportation (DOT) inspection is similar to a Level 1, but with a more limited scope. The official conducting it will not check areas that require them to go under the vehicle, and will instead focus on a visual examination of the vehicle’s exterior and equipment. The driver’s credentials will also be reviewed, such as their license and medical certificates. Bear in mind that this process typically takes about 30 minutes to complete.
Level Three: Driver-Only Inspection
During a level three that lasts for 15 minutes, the Department of Transportation official will focus on examining driver-related elements, such as their credentials and paperwork. Some of the documents they may check include the record of duty status (RODS), skill performance evaluation (SPE) certificate, electronic logging device (ELD), license, hours of service (HOS) records, and driver vehicle inspection report (DVIR). It is important to keep these documents always by your side to remain compliant with regulations.
Level Four: Special Inspections
The fourth level of investigation is a one-time examination of a specific vehicle feature that is conducted by the DOT. It is often carried out to gather data on a particular trend or issue that the DOT wants to study further. The duration of this sequence may vary because it focuses on a specific vehicle feature that can differ from one look-over to another. As a result, there is no average length of time for this level.
Level Five: Vehicle-Only Inspection
This section involves a comprehensive examination of the vehicle, similar to Level 1. However, the driver must not be present during this part. The official conducting the observation will check various vehicle components, including the brakes, fuel systems, cargo, exhaust, steering, lighting, suspension, tires, steering wheel, trailer, windshield wipers, emergency exits, engine, and battery. This level usually takes about 30 minutes to be performed.
Level Six: Enhanced NAS Inspection for Radioactive Shipments
Finally, we have an assessment that can last the longest, around 60 minutes. During a level six D.O.T. inspection, the vehicle and driver transporting radioactive freight must undergo an enhanced level one inspection, as well as a review of the radiological shipments and requirements. The vehicle, cargo, and driver must be in excellent condition to pass the probe. Upon passing the examination, a special decal will be issued at the point of origin and must be removed upon arrival at the destination. You should also know that this decal is only valid for a single trip.
How to Be Prepared for a D.O.T. Inspection
A Department of Transportation (DOT) inspection is a comprehensive review of a commercial vehicle and its driver to ensure that they are in compliance with federal regulations. It is important for trucking companies and drivers to be prepared for it to avoid penalties and downtime. Here are some tips for preparing for it:
-Keep your vehicle and equipment in good working order. This includes conducting regular maintenance and repairs, as well as keeping a record of all work done on the vehicle. Anytime you need the help of a team of professional mechanics, you can get in touch with experts at Truck & Trailer Pit-Stop who are always ready to perform various high-quality services by the required standards and provide you with all the information you may need, and answer all your questions.
- Make sure your driver’s license, medical card, and other required documents are up to date.
- Review the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR).
- Have all required documentation and records on hand, including proof of insurance, bill of lading, driver logs, and vehicle check-up reports.
- Keep the interior of your vehicle clean and organized, as the inspector will probably want to check the driver’s compartment and cargo area.
- If you have any out-of-service violations or other issues, address them before the inspection to avoid penalties.
In order to make sure that your truck is performing at its best, it is recommended to go for regular preventative maintenance service to reduce costs, avoid breakdowns, and keep vehicles prepared. When regularly servicing your vehicles, you can identify and fix potential issues before they turn into more serious problems, ultimately saving you time and money in the long run. Scheduling preventative maintenance also helps to ensure that your vehicles are always in good working order and are ready to hit the road when needed. The specialists at Truck & Trailer Pit-Stop can deliver an impeccable truck preventative maintenance service. We guarantee that our solutions will always be cost-effective and surpass your expectations.