Who is qualified to perform a DOT annual inspection?

Anyone who meets 49 CFR 396.19: they understand Part 393 and Appendix A and can spot defective parts, they've mastered the tools and methods, and they've completed a federal or state training program, hold a state or provincial certificate, or have at least one year of qualifying training or experience.

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What does 49 CFR 396.19 require of an inspector?

The rule: inspector qualifications under 49 CFR 396.19. Last reviewed: October 13, 2026.
Requirement49 CFR 396.19
KnowledgeUnderstands Part 393 and Appendix A; can identify defective components
SkillHas mastered the methods, procedures, tools and equipment
Training or experienceFederal or state training program or certificate, OR 1 year combined of manufacturer training, carrier mechanic or inspector work, commercial garage work, or government inspector work
RecordsCarrier keeps evidence of qualifications while the person inspects, plus 1 year

Source: eCFR, 49 CFR 396.19. Commercial businesses inspecting as a carrier's agent must also operate facilities appropriate for commercial vehicle inspections (396.17(e)).

Who can inspect the brakes?

Anyone who works on brakes must also meet the brake inspector qualifications in 49 CFR 396.25. Check those separately from the general 396.19 qualifications.

Can a shop or other business inspect for me?

Yes. Under 396.17(e), a commercial garage, fleet leasing company, truck stop or similar business can do the annual as the carrier's agent, if it has appropriate facilities and qualified inspectors. The carrier still keeps the report and the inspector's qualification evidence.

What does the qualification rule mean for you?

  1. 01

    Decide who inspects.

    You, an employee, or a commercial business acting as your agent. Doing your own.

  2. 02

    Get qualification evidence.

    Ask for proof of the inspector's training, certificate or experience before the inspection.

  3. 03

    File it.

    Keep it while the person inspects for you, plus one year. Record rules.

  4. 04

    Check brake qualifications.

    Confirm anyone working on brakes meets 49 CFR 396.25.

Frequently asked questions

No. 396.19 accepts several routes: a federal or state training program, a state or provincial certificate, or at least one year of qualifying training or experience. The inspector also needs the knowledge and skills in the table above.

Yes. The carrier keeps evidence of each inspector's qualifications for as long as that person performs inspections for it, plus one year (396.19(b)).

Each inspection is run by an inspector experienced with your vehicle type and qualified under 49 CFR 396.19. You get an inspector qualification record for your files.

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.