As a commercial truck driver, it’s important to stay current on all the required training and paperwork to take care of your vehicle. One of the many expectations of semi-truck drivers is to have an annual federal DOT inspection. These examinations have six levels that vary in focus, with some concentrating on the driver and others requiring in-depth vehicle inspection. Regardless of which DOT inspection you’re presented with, it’s important to be prepared for every stop. Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc. is here to offer scheduled DOT inspections for commercial vehicles in Decatur, Illinois. Learn more about why you need a DOT inspection by reading our blog below.
What is a Federal DOT Inspection?
The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires a yearly inspection to ensure the safety of commercial drivers and trucks throughout the country. During this detailed inspection, a certified mechanic will inspect every component of your vehicle’s rig, inside and out, ensuring you can travel long distances without any issues. Once your vehicle has been approved, our mechanic at Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc. will sign off on your DOT paperwork, and you’ll be on your way.
What Are the 6 Levels of a DOT Inspection?
DOT inspections include six levels, each determining the type of assessment performed by an officer or commercial vehicle technician. At Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc., we offer the most common level, five, which includes a vehicle-only inspection at our certified shop in Decatur, IL. Whether a DOT officer has stopped you or you’re looking to get ahead on this year’s annual examination, reach out to our team to schedule a thorough inspection of your vehicle.
- Level I: Intense inside & outside inspection of your vehicle.
- Level II: Walk-around vehicle inspection & driver paperwork.
- Level III: Driver-only inspection to ensure proper documentation.
- Level IV: Rarest form of stop used for gathering statistical information.
- Level V: Vehicle-only inspection without a driver present at a shop.
- Level VI: Enhanced NAS inspection for radioactive shipments.
What Types of Vehicles Require a DOT Inspection?
There are several commercial vehicles that are required to have a DOT inspection as required by the federal government. Any commercial vehicle weighing over 10,000 pounds, transporting over 16 passengers, carrying hazardous materials, or being classified as a passenger or school bus must complete a DOT inspection by a certified officer or technician. These vehicles fall under the FMCSA CFR 396 regulation and cannot be in service without proof of yearly inspections and up-to-date paperwork. At Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc., we specialize in DOT inspections for commercial vehicles to keep them safe on the road. Schedule a DOT inspection with our team when you call 217.422.7179.
How to Prepare for a Federal DOT Inspection
If your vehicle is coming up on its yearly DOT inspection, there are several ways you can prepare to pass while keeping your vehicle safe on the road. As a licensed commercial driver, maintaining your vehicle records and up-to-date documentation is essential to passing any scheduled or random inspections. To ensure you never miss a step in your safety assessments, utilize DOT checklists and stay educated on roadway rules in Decatur, IL and the surrounding areas. Contact our mechanics today for more information on how you can prepare for an annual DOT inspection.
