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The DOT Vehicle Inspection form is a crucial document designed to ensure the safety and compliance of commercial vehicles on the road. It serves as a record of an annual inspection, conducted by certified technicians, who assess various vehicle components to confirm they meet federal and state regulations. The form captures essential details such as the names and addresses of the inspecting agency and the vehicle's registered owner, along with the date and time of the inspection. It requires the certified inspector's signature, affirming that they possess the necessary skills and tools to perform the inspection in accordance with 49 CFR §396.17. The inspection covers a comprehensive list of vehicle components, including the brake system, steering system, lighting devices, tires, and more. Each component is marked as either "OK" or "Needs Repair," with spaces provided for repair dates. This form not only documents the vehicle's condition but also ensures that any issues are addressed promptly, thus promoting safer driving conditions. Furthermore, it is essential that this report is kept on board the vehicle for a minimum of fourteen months, providing transparency and accountability in vehicle maintenance practices.

Document Specifics

Fact Name Description
Inspection Requirements The DOT Vehicle Inspection form ensures that vehicles meet safety standards outlined in 49 CFR §396.17. This includes a thorough inspection of critical components such as brakes, tires, and lights.
Inspector Qualifications Inspectors must meet specific qualifications under 49 CFR §396.19. They should have relevant training or experience, ensuring they can accurately assess vehicle safety.
Record Keeping Inspection reports must be retained for at least fourteen months. This ensures compliance and provides a record of vehicle safety checks.
State Regulations In addition to federal requirements, state-specific regulations may apply. Always check local laws to ensure full compliance with inspection protocols.

Similar forms

  • Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist: This document is similar to the Dot Vehicle Inspection form in that it outlines the essential components of a vehicle that must be checked before embarking on a journey. Both documents focus on safety and compliance, ensuring that all critical systems, such as brakes and lights, are functioning properly to prevent accidents on the road.

  • Trailer Bill of Sale: This essential document facilitates the legal transfer of ownership for trailers in Arizona. It includes the seller's and buyer's details, trailer description, and sale price, ensuring a smooth transaction process. For assistance in filling out the form, visit Arizona PDF Forms.

  • Annual Safety Inspection Report: Like the Dot Vehicle Inspection form, this report serves as a record of a vehicle's compliance with safety standards. It details the inspection process and findings, emphasizing the importance of maintaining vehicles in safe operating condition. Both documents require a certified inspector's signature, confirming that the inspection has been completed according to regulations.

  • Vehicle Maintenance Log: This log tracks all maintenance and repairs performed on a vehicle over time. Similar to the Dot Vehicle Inspection form, it highlights the importance of regular checks and repairs to ensure safety and efficiency. Both documents serve as valuable records that can be referenced for compliance and accountability.

  • Roadworthiness Certificate: This certificate is issued after a thorough inspection of a vehicle, confirming that it is safe to operate on public roads. Much like the Dot Vehicle Inspection form, it focuses on the vehicle's condition and compliance with safety regulations. Both documents are crucial for ensuring that vehicles meet the necessary standards to protect drivers and the public.

Dot Vehicle Inspection Example

Annual Periodic Vehicle Inspection Report

Name and Address of Inspecting Company or Agency

Registered Owner’s Name

 

Date

 

 

Time

 

 

 

 

 

 

Street

 

Certified Inspector’s Name (Print or Type)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City, State, Zip Code

 

The signing of this inspection report certifies that the technician

 

 

meets and exceeds all requirements of 49 CFR §396.17 and

Motor Carrier Operating Vehicle (If different from Owner)

compatible state regulations and that the technician has the

 

 

 

 

necessary tools, and is skilled in completion of the annual

Street

 

inspection, as listed in 49 CFR §396.17

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City, State, Zip Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Technician’s Signature______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

License Plate Number/State

Vehicle Identification Number

Vehicle Make

Vehicle Model

Model Year

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vehicle Components Inspected

OK

Need

Repair

Item

OK

Need

Repair

Item

OK

Need

Repair

Item

 

Repair

Date

Repair

Date

Repair

Date

 

 

 

 

1. BRAKE SYSTEM

 

 

 

5. FUEL SYSTEM

 

 

 

10. SUSPENSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adjustment

 

 

 

Visible Leaks

 

 

 

Springs (cracked/broken/shifted)

 

 

 

 

Drums or Rotors

 

 

 

Fill Caps in place/intact

 

 

 

U-bolts. Hangers, etc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hoses and/or Tubing

 

 

 

Tank(s) securely attached

 

 

 

Torque, Radius, Tracking Arms

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lining

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6. LIGHTING DEVICES

 

 

 

11. FRAME

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Warning (Low Pressure)

 

 

 

Headlamps

 

 

 

Frame Members

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tractor Protection Valve

 

 

 

Front Turn Signals

 

 

 

Tire & Wheel Clearance

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Air Compressor

 

 

 

Front ID/Clearance Lamps

 

 

 

Sliding Subframe (adj. axle)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service Brakes

 

 

 

Side Marker Lamps – Left

 

 

 

12. TIRES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Parking Brakes

 

 

 

Side Marker Lamps -Right

 

 

 

Steering Axle Tires -Condition

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Electric Brakes

 

 

 

Rear Turn Signals

 

 

 

Steering Tires - over 4/32” tread

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hydraulic Brakes

 

 

 

Stop Lamps

 

 

 

Other Tires – Condition

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vacuum Brakes

 

 

 

Tail Lamps

 

 

 

Other Tires – over 2/32” tread

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Warning (Sys Failure)

 

 

 

Rear ID/Clearance Lamps

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13. WHEELS & RIMS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reflectors / Ref Tape

 

 

 

Lock/Slide Ring

 

 

 

 

2. STEERING SYSTEM

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Free Play (Lash)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fasteners

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7. COUPLING DEVICES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Steering Column

 

 

 

5T H Wheel

 

 

 

Disk/Spoke Condition

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Front Axle Beam

 

 

 

Pintle Hooks

 

 

 

Welds

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Steering Gear Box

 

 

 

Drawbar Eye

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

List any other condition

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

which may affect safe

 

 

 

 

Pittman Arm

 

 

 

Drawbar Tongue

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

vehicle operation

 

 

 

 

Ball & Socket Joints

 

 

 

Safety Devices

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tie Rods & Drag Links

 

 

 

8. EXHAUST SYSTEM

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nuts, Bolts, Fasteners

 

 

 

Leaks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Power Steering Fluid

 

 

 

Placement

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. WINDSHIELDS

 

 

 

9. SAFE LOADING

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Securement Devices

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. WIPERS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MARK COLUMNS AS FOLLOWS: x = OK; o = Needs repair; NA = Does not apply; Fill in Repair date as appropriate

I CERTIFY THE ANNUAL VEHICLE INSPECTION HAS BEEN DONE ACCURATELY AND COMPLETELY. I FURTHER CERTIFY THAT THIS INSPECTION COMPLIES WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF 49 CFR §396.21.

This information must be available on board the vehicle, either as a copy of this report, or on a decal that complies with 49 CFR §396.17(c)(2). This report must be kept a minimum of fourteen months from date of completion

Certified Inspector’s Signature:

 

Date:

 

 

 

INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS

Certification — 49 CFR §396.19

Motor carriers are responsible for ensuring that individual(s) performing an annual inspection under §396.17 are qualified as follows:

Understands the inspection criteria set forth in Part 393 and Appendix G and can identify defective components

Is knowledgeable of and has mastered the methods, procedures, tools and equipment used when performing an inspection

Is capable of performing an inspection by reason of experience, training, or both, and qualifies in one of the following categories (check all that apply):

I.___ Successfully completed a State or Federal training program or has certificate from a State or Canadian Province which qualifies the person to perform commercial vehicle safety inspections.

Specify: _______________________________________

II.___ Have a combination of training or experience totaling at least one year as follows (check all that apply):

a.___ Participation in a truck manufacturer-sponsored training program or similar commercial training program designed to train students in truck operation and maintenance.

Where and Date: _____________________________________________________

b.___ (years) experience as a mechanic or inspector in a motor carrier maintenance program.

Name and Date: _____________________________________________________

c.___ (years) experience as a mechanic or inspector in truck maintenance at a commercial garage, fleet leasing company, or similar facility.

Name of Facility and Dates: ____________________________________________

d.___ (years) experience as a commercial vehicle inspector for a State, Provincial, or Federal Government.

Where and Dates: ____________________________________________________

I certify the above information is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Employee ______________________________________

________________

Signature of Mechanic/Inspector

Date

Motor Carrier/Company ____________________________________

________________

Signature of Employer/Supervisor

Date

Evidence of Inspector Qualification is on file at:

_______________________________

BRAKE INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS

Certification — 49 CPR §396.25

“Brake Inspector” means any employee of a motor carrier who is responsible for ensuring all brake inspections, maintenance, service, or repairs to any commercial motor vehicle, subject to the motor carrier’s control, meet the applicable Federal standards.

No motor carrier shall require or permit any employee who does not meet minimum brake inspector qualifications to be responsible for the inspection, maintenance, service or repairs of any brakes on its commercial motor vehicles.

Minimum Qualifications

Understands and can perform brake service and inspection

Is knowledgeable of and has mastered the methods, procedures, tools and equipment necessary to perform brake service and inspection

Is capable of performing brake service or inspection by reason of experience, training, or both, and qualifies in one of the following categories (check all that apply):

I.___Has successfully completed an apprenticeship program sponsored or approved

by a State, Canadian Province, a Federal agency or labor union, or has a certificate from a State or Canadian Province which qualifies the person to perform brake service or inspections.

Specify: ________________________________________________________________

II.___ Has brake-related training or experience or a combination thereof totaling at least one year as follows (check all that apply):

a.___Participation in a brake maintenance or inspection training program sponsored by a brake or vehicle manufacturer or similar commercial training program.

Where and Date:_______________________________________________

b.___ (years) experience performing brake maintenance or inspection in a motor carrier maintenance program.

Name and Date:_______________________________________________

c.___ (years) experience performing brake maintenance or inspection at a commercial garage, fleet leasing company, or similar facility.

Name of Facility and Dates:______________________________________

I certify the above information is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Employee ______________________________________

________________

Signature of Mechanic/Inspector

Date

Motor Carrier/Company ____________________________________

________________

Signature of Employer/Supervisor

Date

Evidence of Inspector Qualification is on file at:

_______________________________

Understanding Dot Vehicle Inspection

What is the purpose of the DOT Vehicle Inspection form?

The DOT Vehicle Inspection form serves as a comprehensive record of a vehicle's annual inspection. It ensures that commercial vehicles meet safety standards as outlined by federal regulations. This form includes details about the inspecting company, the vehicle's owner, and the specific components that were inspected. By completing this form, technicians certify that the vehicle is safe for operation and compliant with applicable regulations.

Who is qualified to perform the inspections noted on the form?

Only certified inspectors can conduct the inspections detailed in the DOT Vehicle Inspection form. These inspectors must have a thorough understanding of the inspection criteria and be skilled in identifying defective components. They should possess relevant training or experience, which may include completing state or federal training programs or having significant hands-on experience in vehicle maintenance or inspection. This ensures that the inspections are conducted accurately and safely.

What information is required to be filled out on the DOT Vehicle Inspection form?

The form requires several key pieces of information. This includes the name and address of the inspecting company, the registered owner's name, and the date and time of the inspection. Additionally, details about the vehicle, such as its make, model, year, and identification number, must be included. The inspector must also document the condition of various vehicle components, indicating whether each is satisfactory or requires repair.

How long must the DOT Vehicle Inspection report be retained?

According to federal regulations, the DOT Vehicle Inspection report must be kept for a minimum of fourteen months from the date of completion. This retention period allows for necessary reviews and ensures that inspection records are available for any audits or inquiries. It is crucial for motor carriers to maintain these records to demonstrate compliance with safety regulations.

What happens if a vehicle is found to need repairs during the inspection?

If a vehicle is identified as needing repairs during the inspection, the inspector will note the specific components that require attention on the form. Each item will be marked accordingly, and a repair date should be filled in. It is the responsibility of the vehicle owner or operator to address these repairs promptly to ensure the vehicle remains safe and compliant with regulations. Failure to do so could result in penalties or safety hazards.

Dos and Don'ts

Filling out the DOT Vehicle Inspection form is a critical task that requires attention to detail. To ensure compliance and accuracy, here are some essential dos and don’ts.

  • Do ensure all fields are filled out completely. Missing information can lead to delays or complications.
  • Do double-check the vehicle identification number (VIN) for accuracy. An incorrect VIN can invalidate the inspection.
  • Do clearly mark the condition of each vehicle component. Use "OK," "Needs Repair," or "Does Not Apply" as instructed.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed inspection report on board the vehicle. This is a legal requirement.
  • Don't rush through the inspection process. Take the necessary time to thoroughly assess each component.
  • Don't forget to include the technician’s signature and date at the end of the form. This certifies that the inspection was completed accurately.