The DOT annual inspection checklist
Every commercial motor vehicle needs a periodic inspection at least once every 12 months, against a federal list of 15 parts. Here is what the rule says.
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What it covers
- Appendix A to 49 CFR part 396, "Minimum Periodic Inspection Standards", lists what a vehicle must pass. It does not pass with a defect in any of:
- Brake system
- Coupling devices
- Exhaust system
- Fuel system
- Lighting devices
- Safe loading
- Steering mechanism
- Suspension
- Frame
- Tires
- Wheels and rims
- Windshield glazing
- Windshield wipers
- Motorcoach seats
- Rear impact guard
- Each vehicle in a combination is inspected on its own: the tractor, the semitrailer, the full trailer and a converter dolly (§396.17(a)).
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How often
- A vehicle may not be used unless every part on that list has passed an inspection at least once in the preceding 12 months (§396.17(c)).
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What rides on the vehicle
- The inspection report, or a sticker or decal based on it. That shows:
- the date;
- the name and address of whoever keeps the report;
- the vehicle, if it is not clearly marked;
- a certification that it passed (§396.17(c)(2)).
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Who may inspect
- A carrier may inspect its own vehicles. A commercial garage, a fleet leasing company, a truck stop or a similar business may inspect as the carrier's agent if it has suitable facilities and qualified inspectors (§396.17(d)–(e)). A qualified inspector:
- understands the criteria in part 393 and appendix A, and can identify defective parts;
- knows the methods, tools and equipment;
- has passed a Federal- or State-sponsored training program, holds a State or Canadian Province certificate, or has at least one year of training or experience. That experience includes as a mechanic or inspector at a commercial garage or fleet (§396.19(a)).
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The report
- The inspector writes a report that names:
- the inspector, the carrier, the date and the vehicle;
- the parts inspected and the results, including any that did not meet appendix A;
- a certification that it is accurate and complete (§396.21(a)).
- It is kept for 14 months from its date, where the vehicle is housed or maintained, and shown to an official on demand (§396.21(b)).
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A state's inspection can count
- A periodic inspection under a state program that meets appendix A counts for 12 months, from the last day of the month it was done (§396.17(f)).
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What this guide is not
- It is the federal rule's outline, not the inspection itself and not legal advice. The full standards, with every defect and measurement, are in appendix A to 49 CFR part 396. Your state may add its own program.
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Where Scarab OS does this
- Trucks from Class 2B up get their own inspection points: air system, slack adjusters, DEF, marker lights, and fifth wheel and PTO on Class 4 to 8.
- A heavy-duty job's checklist includes updating the DOT inspection sticker.
- Scarab OS has no DOT annual inspection form. This guide says what the rule asks. It does not claim the app fills it in.
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Sources
- All eCFR title 49, read 20 Oct 2026:
- §396.17 Periodic inspection
- §396.19 Inspector qualifications
- §396.21 Periodic inspection recordkeeping requirements
- Appendix A to Part 396, Minimum Periodic Inspection Standards
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Questions shops ask
How often does a commercial truck need a DOT inspection?
At least once every 12 months. Every part on the federal list must pass, and proof rides on the vehicle.
What does a DOT annual inspection cover?
Fifteen areas, including brakes, coupling devices, steering, suspension, frame, tires, wheels, lights and wipers, set out in appendix A to 49 CFR part 396.
Can a repair shop do DOT inspections?
Yes, as the carrier's agent, if it has the facilities and a qualified inspector.
How long do I keep the inspection report?
Fourteen months from the date of the report, where the vehicle is housed or maintained.
