Commercial motor vehicles need a full DOT inspection every 12 months and must keep the signed report for 14 months. The report needs the VIN, inspection date, inspector details, and confirmation the vehicle met standards. Tractors, trailers, and converter dollies each need their own annual inspection.
Every CMV must pass a periodic inspection at least once every 12 months, and you must keep the signed report for 14 months. Your inspection report should list the VIN or unit number, inspection date, inspector or facility info, and a statement that the vehicle met the minimum inspection standards. Each asset— tractor, trailer, and converter dolly— needs its own annual DOT inspection. Do you need a DOT annual inspection sticker? No. Annual inspection stickers are optional. Compliance is proven by your inspection report. Digital proof is fine if drivers can pull it up fast during a roadside inspection. Be sure to only use qualified inspectors and try to align due dates with your PMs. Check out www.mysafetymanager.com for other helpful tips.
