Annual DOT inspections for tractors and trailers

Every tractor, semitrailer, full trailer and converter dolly in a combination is its own commercial motor vehicle, and each needs its own annual inspection and its own proof (49 CFR 396.17(a)). Bright Inspect inspects each unit where it's parked and issues one record per unit.

Inspect the whole combination in one visit

Tractor, trailers and dollies inspected where they're parked, with one record per unit.

Book my tractor and trailers

How many annual inspections does a tractor-trailer need?

One for each unit. For a tractor pulling a semitrailer and a full trailer, the tractor, the semitrailer and the full trailer, including the converter dolly if equipped, must each be inspected, with proof on each unit (49 CFR 396.17(a)).

Annual inspections per unit in a combination. Last reviewed: October 12, 2026.
UnitOwn annual inspection?Own proof on the unit?
Tractor or truckYesYes
SemitrailerYesYes
Full trailerYesYes
Converter dollyYesYes

What gets checked on a tractor-trailer?

All 13 Appendix A systems on each unit: brakes, coupling devices (fifth wheel, kingpin, pintle hooks, safety chains), exhaust, fuel, lighting, safe loading, steering, suspension, frame, tires, wheels and rims, windshield glazing and wipers. Trailers are checked for the systems they carry.

Are there state rules on top of the federal annual?

Yes, in some states. California requires many trucks and tractors to be inspected at least every 90 days under its BIT program (California Vehicle Code 34505.5). Texas and Pennsylvania run their own annual programs at licensed stations for vehicles registered there. Check your state before booking.

State programs that affect tractors and trailers in selected states. Last reviewed: October 12, 2026.
StateWhat appliesSource
CaliforniaBIT preventive inspection at least every 90 days for many trucks and tractorsCVC 34505.5
TexasTexas-registered covered vehicles use DPS-certified stationsFMCSA accepted programs, 2008
PennsylvaniaPA-registered vehicles use official PennDOT inspection stationsFMCSA accepted programs, 2008
Other statesSee your state pageAll states

What does it cost to inspect a tractor and its trailers?

Each unit is one inspection. A single unit is $99. A tractor and one trailer are 2 units at $84.15 each with a 15% fleet discount, 4 to 7 units are $74.25 each with a 25% discount, and 8 or more units get a custom fleet quote. See pricing.

Frequently asked questions

If the yard allows it and someone can be with the trailer, yes. Bring proof of permission to the session.

Anyone inspecting or adjusting brakes must meet the brake inspector qualifications in 49 CFR 396.25, in addition to the annual inspector rules in 49 CFR 396.19.

No, in almost every case. A 2016 FMCSA rule removed that option (Federal Register, July 22, 2016). See Does a roadside inspection count as my annual?

Yes. See small fleets for how we schedule every unit and track each renewal.

Book every unit where it's parked

One inspection and one record per tractor, trailer and dolly.