The Department of Transportation (DOT) is the government agency responsible for verifying that commercial vehicles throughout the country are safe to operate on public roads. The agency requires annual DOT Inspections for commercial truck drivers to ensure their vehicles are in good working order. While the inspection process can be stressful for commercial vehicle owners and drivers, understanding the process makes it easier for you to prepare and interpret your results.

What Is a DOT Inspection?

The most important fact about the DOT inspections is that the process has several levels, the precise number of which depends on the type of vehicle. The following steps apply to all trucks:

• Level I, Standard: This is the basic inspection of documents, like licenses and registrations, and general safety components, including seat belts, headlights, brakes and exhaust emissions.
• Level II, Walk Around: This level is a close inspection of the vehicle’s parts and components as they relate to safety and functionality. Parts located on the underside of your vehicle are not included in this inspection.
• Level III, Driver: This is an in-depth look at the driver’s documents, certifications, performance evaluations and transportation logs.
• Level IV, Special: This level involves the one-time inspection of a single safety element as predetermined by the inspector.
• Level V, Vehicle: This is a more comprehensive look at all truck components, as outlined in Level I. This time, the inspection is performed without the driver present.

In addition to these inspections, there are a few categories that only apply in certain instances. Level VI inspections are reserved for vehicles that carry radiological material, while Level VII is for passenger vehicles like buses. Level VIII is designed to inspect electronic equipment like onboard GPS devices.

Passing a DOT inspection isn’t easy, but scheduling routine maintenance and frequent preinspection checks at a certified inspection station like Glen’s Precision Auto in St. Cloud, MN, will help. Call them at (320) 251-4910 today to schedule an appointment or visit them online to learn about the wide range of auto repair and trailer maintenance services.