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What does a DOT annual inspection sticker need to show?

Federal rules don't require a sticker. Proof of a current annual inspection on the vehicle can be the inspection report itself, or a sticker or decal based on it. If you use a sticker, it must show the inspection date, who keeps the report and where, the vehicle's ID if it isn't clearly marked, and a pass certification.

Doing your own paperwork?

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What must a federal annual inspection sticker or label include?

The rule: proof-of-inspection items under 49 CFR 396.17(c). Last reviewed: October 13, 2026.
Required itemExample
Date of inspection10/12/2026
Name and address of the carrier or entity keeping the reportCarrier name, street, city, state
Vehicle identification, if not clearly marked on the vehicleUnit number or last 6 of VIN
Certification that the vehicle passed under 396.17"This vehicle has passed all the inspection items for the annual vehicle inspection in accordance with 49 CFR Part 396"

Source: eCFR, 49 CFR 396.17(c).

Is a sticker from a truck stop kit enough?

Only if a qualified inspector actually did the inspection and wrote the report behind it. A sticker is proof based on a report (396.17(c)(2)); without the report and the inspector's qualification record, it won't hold up in an audit. Who can inspect.

Which states issue their own inspection stickers?

State inspection stickers and certificates in our state guides. Last reviewed: October 13, 2026.
StateState sticker or certificate
PennsylvaniaOfficial PA inspection certificate for PA-registered vehicles in the state program
IllinoisCertificate of Safety for covered vehicle classes
New JerseyCertificate of approval for vehicles in state inspection
Ohio, Georgia, Indiana, Pennsylvania, New JerseySchool bus stickers or certificates from the state inspecting agency
TexasNo sticker; electronic record and Vehicle Inspection Report

What does the sticker rule mean for you?

  1. 01

    Start with a real inspection.

    Get a qualified annual inspection and a report that meets 49 CFR 396.21.

  2. 02

    Choose your proof.

    Carry the report itself, or a sticker or decal that shows all four required items.

  3. 03

    Put proof on every unit.

    Each tractor, trailer and converter dolly carries its own proof. Trailer rule.

  4. 04

    Keep the report on file.

    The report behind the sticker stays on file for 14 months. Record rules.

Frequently asked questions

No. Federal rules accept the inspection report itself as proof on the vehicle. A sticker or decal is an option, as long as it shows the required items and is based on a real report.

No. A CVSA decal shows a recent roadside inspection without critical violations; it's not proof of the annual. Roadside vs. annual.

Every passing inspection includes the full report, a printable proof page with all four required items, and a verification code.

Need your annual inspection done?

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