Can You Refuse a DOT Inspection?

Whether you operate a truck or manage a fleet, you’ll want to avoid DOT inspections at all costs. An officer may request to inspect a vehicle regardless of the precautions you take, and you may feel tempted to get defensive or say no. So, can you refuse a DOT inspection? 

In addition to a DOT compliance check, the team at FMCA Filings carries in-depth knowledge about these potential inspections. Below, we share more about DOT inspections, the consequences of refusing them, and how to avoid them in the first place.

What Happens During DOT Inspection? 

A typical DOT inspection occurs annually. The FMCSA requires these inspections to verify that each vehicle within a fleet undergoes regular maintenance and repairs to ensure road safety. If the officer discovers a vehicle doesn’t meet these basic requirements, they will place out-of-service (OOS) orders so that it may not transport goods until it has restored mechanical integrity.

During the inspection process, the officer expects the carrier representative or driver to comply and assist (this is called DOT inspection compliance). When someone complies with an inspection, they show they have nothing to hide.

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance outlines many inspection levels, but a routine check would typically look like this: 

1. Visual check: truck body and major components
2. Operational check: issues with brakes 
3. Cargo inspection: secure freight
4. Verification: documents, permits, and other paperwork
5. HOS compliance: hours of service checks
6. HOS compliance: driver logbooks

Why Do the Authorities Request DOT Inspections?

An authority figure may request an inspection for reasons beyond routine formalities. For example: 

• A driver in a wreck could have damaged property or injured people. The law enforcement officer may request a vehicle inspection to ensure the driver isn’t intoxicated or carrying illegal substances.
• Certain complaints could make their way to the Department of Transport. 
• Drivers may incur traffic violations that prompt an impromptu vehicle inspection. 

Can You Refuse a DOT Inspection Without Consequences?

DOT inspection refusal often seems like a good idea when you’re faced with an unexpected or seemingly unwarranted inspection and an upset driver. But can you refuse a DOT inspection under the law? No, you cannot refuse an inspection, and refusing to assist or participate is ill-advised. 

Consequences For Refusing an Inspection

A closer look reveals that a refusal will negatively impact a carrier’s Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) score. When a driver significantly influences the carrier’s reputation in this way, they could face termination. Upon refusal, an officer will also likely inspect with less leniency, further impacting the carrier or driver’s reputation.

How To Avoid Inspections

Although impromptu inspections seem daunting, you can take a few precautions to avoid them or ensure they go smoothly. If you are proactive about your fleet’s condition, you’ll eliminate numerous issues to circumvent common violations with which many carriers struggle. 

You’ll also protect your reputation and CVSA score as a carrier or driver by implementing the following routine and protocol before and during each trip:

• Keep the fleet clean and shiny. Regular washings provide cosmetic benefits, but a fleet’s appearance also communicates your attention to detail. Invest in truck washing services every few months or as needed.
• Perform a pre-trip inspection before each drive. You will catch an issue early enough if you know how your truck should run and operate. Ensure the tires have tread and air, test your brakes, and listen for engine noise issues.
• Pay attention to odd noises. If you detect loud or strange noises, fix the truck before driving it again. Rather, choose another vehicle for the trip. The DOT officers want to see fully functional vehicles on the road.
• Keep your paperwork in order and readily available. A manila folder or two will keep your documents safe and in one place. Update and renew all documents as needed.
• Secure the freight. Before taking off on your travels, double-check the freight’s security. If any piece of equipment could flap around in the wind or hang loosely from the truck, secure it. Remove any items from the dashboard and all garbage from the cab as well.
• Follow basic traffic laws. This one seems obvious, but some drivers will bend the rules to stay on schedule. Heed every traffic sign—it’s a habit that protects you and the people with whom you share the road.

Finally, in the event you must undergo an inspection, keep your words few and be helpful. Don’t become defensive or combative when confronted with mistakes. Keep your cool. 

Simply the Filing Process with FMCA Filings

Can you refuse a DOT inspection? If you are fully prepared, you won’t have to. The inspection will occur regardless of your consent, and refusing to assist the officer will only damage your carrier’s safety score.

Why not brush up on actions to avoid with this DOT violations list? And make sure you file all permits on time through FMCA Filings’ easy application process. For more questions related to DOT Inspections, speak with one of the professional Live Agents at Federal Motor Carrier Authority Online.