AUGUST 9, 2016 – Annual or Periodic DOT Vehicle Inspections (the inspections in which you receive a sticker on the CMV indicating that it has passed inspection) must be conducted by a Qualified Inspector at a minimum of once every 12 months.
Until recently, a violation-free Level I Roadside Inspection would satisfy that requirement. However, effective July 22, 2016, the FMCSA made a change that negates Level I inspections from fulfilling the annual obligation.
Why? Basically the FMCSA feels that all too often aspects of the annual inspection are not being met during Level I inspections.
How might this affect your DOT operation?
It really shouldn’t have much of a bearing on your business. Even when violation-free Level I roadside inspections occurred, Foley recommended getting your own DOT Vehicle Inspection every year.
On a side note, it is important to remember that in addition to having the certification sticker on your vehicle, you must maintain a hard copy of the inspection in your vehicle’s file for a period of 14 months.
Questions or concerns? Leave them in the comments section below!
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