Rather skip the paperwork?
Book an inspection and the completed report is generated for you, with a verification code.
Six things, set by 49 CFR 396.21: who inspected, which carrier operates the vehicle, the date, which vehicle, every component inspected with its result, and a certification that the inspection is accurate and complete. The rule sets what the report must contain; FMCSA also publishes a sample report for new entrants.
| Field | What to record |
|---|---|
| Inspector | The individual who performed the inspection |
| Motor carrier | The carrier operating the vehicle |
| Date | The date of the inspection |
| Vehicle | The vehicle inspected, such as unit number, VIN and vehicle type |
| Components and results | Each component inspected and the result, including any that don't meet Appendix A |
| Certification | A statement that the inspection is accurate and complete |
Group it so the inspector fills it top to bottom and the proof of inspection can travel with the vehicle. A practical layout has these blocks:
The minimum checklist is Appendix A to 49 CFR Part 396: brakes, coupling devices, exhaust, fuel system, lighting, safe loading, steering, suspension, frame, tires, wheels and rims, windshield glazing and windshield wipers, plus bus-specific items. One failed component means the vehicle doesn't pass.
| System | What the inspector looks at (plain language) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Service and parking brakes, adjustment, drums, rotors, linings, hoses, air system, ABS lamp |
| Coupling devices | Fifth wheel, kingpin, pintle hooks, drawbars, safety chains |
| Exhaust | Leaks, mounting, placement near fuel or cab |
| Fuel system | Leaks, tank mounting, filler caps |
| Lighting | All required lamps and reflectors work |
| Safe loading | Load securement equipment, front-end structure |
| Steering | Steering wheel play, column, gear box, linkage |
| Suspension | Springs, U-bolts, torque arms, air suspension |
| Frame | Cracks, sagging, loose or missing fasteners |
| Tires | Tread depth, damage, inflation, mixing |
| Wheels and rims | Cracks, lock rings, fasteners, welds |
| Windshield glazing | Cracks and damage in the driver's view |
| Windshield wipers | Working wipers on the driver's side |
For the full checklist, see What does a DOT annual inspection check?
The four items a sticker or decal must show under 49 CFR 396.17(c)(2): the date of the inspection, where the inspection record is kept, the vehicle's identification, and a certification that the vehicle passed. Proof must be on the vehicle; the full report can serve as that proof instead.
Only if you meet the 49 CFR 396.19 inspector qualifications and keep proof of them. The form doesn't make an inspection valid; a qualified inspector does. If you inspect or adjust brakes, 49 CFR 396.25 brake inspector rules also apply.
Book a Bright Inspect inspection and the completed report is generated for you, with a verification code. It covers every field above, organized by unit, and is ready within 60 minutes of the inspection.
Book an inspection where your vehicle is parked. Your report and verification code are ready within 60 minutes.