The MCS 90 Form: Ultimate Guide
The MCS-90 form isn’t just another piece of DOT paperwork—it’s a critical safeguard for every motor carrier. Learn what the MCS-90 is, why it matters, and how it protects your trucking company from major financial losses while supporting your FMCSA operating authority.
Crash Preventability Determination Program Basics
Crash Preventability Determination Program (CPDP) lets carriers challenge crashes that weren’t their driver’s fault. Submit evidence through FMCSA DataQs—dashcam video, police report, photos, and statements—to earn a “Not Preventable” ruling. Approved cases are removed from CSA Crash Indicator calculations while still noted on PSP, protecting your safety score and reputation.
DOT Sticker Requirements Explained
DOT sticker requirements: make sure your USDOT number and legal name are displayed correctly to avoid citations. This quick guide covers minimum letter height, color/contrast for 50-ft readability, placement on both sides of the power unit, and common mistakes to avoid—plus a simple checklist to keep your trucks compliant.
DOT Out of Service Violations List: Ultimate Guide
DOT Out-of-Service Violations List: Know what gets trucks and drivers sidelined at roadside inspections. This guide explains the most common OOS violations (vehicle, driver, and hazmat), how inspectors score them, and practical steps to avoid them. Use it to train drivers, pass inspections, and protect your CSA scores.
DVIR: Essential Tool for Vehicle Safety Checks
A Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) is a daily record documenting the condition of a commercial motor vehicle before and after operation. Required by the FMCSA, DVIRs help ensure vehicles are safe, defects are repaired promptly, and maintenance records are complete for audits and ongoing compliance.
CVSA Roadcheck 2025 Results: A Guide for Your Fleet
The 2025 CVSA International Roadcheck is the largest truck and driver inspection event in North America. This annual 72-hour blitz focuses on critical safety items like brakes, tires, and Hours of Service compliance—helping fleets identify issues, avoid costly out-of-service orders, and maintain strong CSA scores year-round.
DOT Annual Inspection Sticker Requirements: What Fleets Need to Know
DOT annual inspection stickers aren’t federally required—but proof of a periodic inspection is. If you’ve ever been told to “get your DOT annual sticker,” here’s the truth: there are no DOT annual inspection requirements or regulations that say you must display a sticker. What the federal regulation (49 CFR §396.17) actually requires is that every…
DOT Window Tint Regulations Explained
DOT window tint regulations for CMVs require at least 70% VLT on the windshield and front side windows. This guide explains federal rules, stricter state limits, how officers measure VLT, and practical fleet specs to avoid violations. Learn what counts as OEM tint, documentation to keep, and tips for interstate compliance.
DOT Fire Extinguisher Requirements Explained
Commercial vehicles must carry DOT-compliant fire extinguishers that meet minimum standards, be securely mounted in accessible locations, and undergo regular inspections. A common requirement is at least a 5 B:C rating for standard loads (or higher for hazardous cargo). Staying current isn’t just regulation—it’s life-saving readiness.
DOT 16 Hour Rule-Your Complete Guide
The DOT 16-hour rule gives certain truck drivers extra flexibility by allowing one extended workday every seven consecutive days. It’s designed for drivers who start and end their shift at the same reporting location. Understanding when and how to properly use this exception can help prevent HOS violations and maintain compliance
A Guide to FMCSA Load Securement Regulations
The FMCSA load securement regulations are the official rules of the road, found in 49 CFR Part 393, that dictate exactly how your cargo needs to be tied down on a commercial truck. The main idea is simple: your securement system has to be strong enough to keep the load from shifting, sliding, or falling…
Your 15-Minute DOT Pre Trip Inspection Guide
A proper DOT pre trip inspection is more than just a regulatory hurdle. It’s the 15-minute investment you make each day to protect your safety, your equipment, and your career. Think of it as your first and best defense against preventable breakdowns, costly roadside violations, and serious accidents. Why Your Daily Inspection Is Not the…
ISS Score DOT: Key to Reducing Inspections
ISS Score DOT is the number FMCSA assigns to every carrier to help inspectors decide who gets pulled in for checks. A higher score means more inspections, delays, and costs for your fleet. Understanding how the ISS works can help you manage risk, reduce inspections, and keep your trucks moving.
What Is a BOC-3? Essential Guide for Trucking Compliance
BOC-3, or the “Designation of Process Agents,” is a required filing for motor carriers operating across state lines. It designates individuals or entities in each state authorized to accept legal documents on your behalf. Once filed, the BOC-3 simplifies legal notifications and keeps your interstate operations compliant.
What Happens If I Fail a DOT Audit?
Failing a DOT audit can trigger a downgrade to a “Conditional” or “Unsatisfactory” safety rating, placing your authority at risk and forcing corrective action under tight deadlines. This post walks you through what the rating change means, the corrective-action timeline and how to restore compliance before you lose registration or cost your company loads
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