DOTBrightInspect

How long is a DOT annual inspection good for?

12 months. Federal rules require that each vehicle passed its inspection at least once during the preceding 12 months (49 CFR 396.17(c)). If the inspection was done under an FMCSA-accepted state program, it counts for 12 months starting from the last day of the month it was done (396.17(f)). Some states require more frequent inspections.

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How long does each type of inspection last?

The rule: how long an annual or state inspection is good for. Last reviewed: October 13, 2026.
InspectionGood forSource
Federal annual (carrier or commercial business)12 months49 CFR 396.17(c)
Accepted state program inspection12 months from the last day of the inspection month49 CFR 396.17(f)
California BIT preventive inspection90 daysCVC 34505.5 (California rules)
Pennsylvania school, passenger and mass transit vehicles6 months75 Pa.C.S. 4702(b) (Pennsylvania rules)
Illinois Certificate of Safety (most covered vehicles)6 months625 ILCS 5/13-109 (Illinois rules)

Is there a grace period for a DOT annual inspection?

No federal grace period exists. On day 366, the vehicle no longer has a valid annual inspection. Running it after that point risks a 396.17(c) citation at any roadside stop. What happens when it's expired.

What does the 12-month rule mean for you?

  1. 01

    Find the date on each report.

    Every tractor, truck and trailer has its own inspection date, so each unit has its own deadline.

  2. 02

    Check your state's cycle.

    Some state programs run shorter than 12 months. Find your state.

  3. 03

    Book before it lapses.

    Schedule the next inspection ahead of the 12-month mark. Bright Inspect sends a reminder before your next annual is due.

  4. 04

    Replace the proof on the vehicle.

    When the new inspection passes, put the new report or sticker on the vehicle. Sticker rules.

Frequently asked questions

No federal grace period exists. On day 366, the vehicle no longer has a valid annual inspection.

Only if they were inspected on the same date. Each unit in a combination needs its own inspection (396.17(a)), so each one has its own 12-month window. Trailer rule.

No. The federal minimum is once every 12 months. Carriers can set stricter policies, and some state programs are more frequent, such as California's 90-day BIT inspection.

Need your annual inspection done?

Book an inspection where your vehicle is parked. Same-day slots, a digital record within 60 minutes, and no shop day.

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