Commercial motor vehicle (CMV) malfunctions and truck driver impairment on busy highways and city streets can cause accidents that involve multiple motorists. That’s why annual DOT inspections are required for commercial vehicles that weigh more than 10,000 pounds. To help you take steps to ensure the fleet and drivers pass, here’s a quick rundown of the six inspection tiers.

An Introduction to DOT Inspection Levels

1. North American Standard Inspection

At Level I, a DOT inspector will review CMV driver documentation. This includes a passing medical certificate from the annual DOT physical, medical cards and waivers, validity of the commercial driver’s license, and logbooks from the last eight days on duty. The inspector will also look for signs of drug and alcohol use. Meanwhile, all of the vehicle components are checked for proper operation.   

2. Visual Inspection

The Level II inspection includes most of the steps in Level I. Accompanied by the driver, the examiner will walk around the vehicle looking for any cause for concern. Although the check is thorough, the inspector will not go under the vehicle to look at components. 

3. Examination of Driver Credentials 

Level III also includes a review of the driver’s qualifications. In addition to medical certificates, the inspector will also look at the skill performance evaluation certificate. This certificate allows CMV drivers with missing or impaired limbs to operate trucks across state lines. The vehicle inspection reports the operator signed off on are looked at, too.

4. Special Inspection

The Level IV inspection addresses any claims that were made regarding a vehicle. The inspector will closely examine the component causing concern. After the examination, the results will be used to disprove or support the previous claim. 

5. Vehicle-Only Inspection

Without the truck operator present, a Level V DOT inspection includes a comprehensive test of all vehicle mechanisms. Most of these points are also covered during a Level I exam, including the vehicle frame, fuel system, suspension, brakes, steering, tires, wheels, and lights. 

6. Enhanced NAS Inspection for Radioactive Shipments

A Level VI DOT inspection focuses on examining vehicles and drivers that handle radiological shipments. These inspections are performed before the driver embarks on the journey. Cargo must also pass the inspection.

For DOT inspections in the Gwinnett County, GA, area, contact the ASE®-certified technicians at MCL Mobile Fleet Services. Based in Norcross, the professionals provide thorough, accurate inspections, semi-truck roadside assistance, fleet maintenance, and repairs. Learn more service details online and call (470) 321-4147 to schedule an appointment today.