FMCSA / DOT mandate
Inspections, CSA & New Entrant
Roadside, annual 396, and the first 18 months.
Do this now
Keep the annual inspection report (396.17) in the vehicle. New interstate carriers are New Entrants for 18 months — a failed safety audit can shut the MC down. Roadside inspections score you in CSA whether you ‘feel’ like a big truck or not.
Must-have
- Periodic (annual) inspection under 49 CFR 396.17 — report or decal in/on the vehicle.
- Driver vehicle inspection report (DVIR) when required; defects repaired before dispatch.
- New Entrant safety audit in the first 12–18 months.
- Know your BASIC scores. One dirty inspection follows the USDOT, not your feelings.
The rule
49 CFR 396.17
Periodic inspection. 12-month cycle.
49 CFR 396.11
Driver vehicle inspection reports.
New Entrant Safety Assurance
FMCSA can revoke new-entrant registration for failing the audit or for serious violations.
What they don’t publish
- Level 1 inspections on hot shots are common at Florida agricultural and weigh stations. Lights, brakes, cargo securement (Part 393), and medical card are the usual hits.
- A ‘clean’ inspection still uploads. A dirty one on straps or brakes is how a small MC gets a warning letter.
- If you lease owner-operators, their roadside becomes your CSA.
Official desks
Tap when it’s done
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