If you operate a commercial truck, you already know there’s no room for cutting corners when it comes to safety and compliance. One of the most important requirements for keeping your truck on the road is the Annual DOT Inspection, which is a federal mandate that every commercial vehicle must pass once every 12 months.
What Is an Annual DOT Inspection?
An Annual DOT Inspection, also called a Periodic Inspection, is a comprehensive review of your vehicle’s condition. It’s required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) under 49 CFR 396.17, and it must be completed once every year for all commercial motor vehicles over 10,001 pounds operating in interstate commerce.
The goal is simple: to ensure every vehicle on the road is mechanically sound and safe for operation. Failing to complete this inspection can result in fines, out-of-service violations, and even increased liability in the event of an accident.
What’s Checked During an Annual DOT Inspection?
During the inspection, a qualified technician will examine key safety components from bumper to bumper. Here's a look at what’s typically covered:
- Brake System
- Steering Mechanisms
- Suspension System
- Wheels, Rims, and Tires
- Lights and Reflectors
- Windshield Wipers and Mirrors
- Coupling Devices and Fifth Wheels
- Fuel and Exhaust Systems
- Frame and Chassis
- Emergency Equipment (fire extinguisher, warning triangles, etc.)
At Assured Truck Repair, our certified technicians thoroughly inspect each of these components and more, catching issues before they cause costly downtime or a roadside violation.
Who Can Perform an Annual DOT Inspection?
Only a qualified inspector can complete and certify an annual DOT inspection. That includes individuals with:
- Experience and training in commercial vehicle maintenance
- Knowledge of FMCSA inspection standards
- Proof of qualification on file per FMCSA regulations
Our team at Assured Truck Repair meets all federal requirements and is trusted by fleets across Mid-Michigan and Southeast Michigan to handle inspections professionally and efficiently.
What Happens If You Skip or Fail an Inspection?
Failure to comply with the annual inspection requirement can lead to:
- Fines and penalties from DOT audits
- Vehicles being placed out of service
- Delays in operations
- Loss of contracts or business opportunities
- Higher risk of breakdowns or accidents
If your truck doesn’t pass inspection, it must be repaired and re-inspected before it can be legally operated again. That’s why proactive maintenance and early scheduling are key.
How to Prepare for Your Annual DOT Inspection
Getting ready for an inspection doesn’t have to be stressful—especially when you stay on top of regular maintenance. Here’s how to make the process smooth:
- Perform pre-trip inspections regularly.
- Keep maintenance records organized and accessible.
- Check tires, lights, and brakes in advance, which are the most common fail points.
- Schedule your inspection before your current certificate expires.
- Partner with a reliable repair shop that understands DOT standards inside and out.
At Assured Truck Repair, we don’t just perform inspections, we help you prepare for them. Our technicians can take care of repairs and maintenance in the same visit if needed, saving you time and hassle.
Why Trust Assured Truck Repair?
✅ Certified DOT inspectors on staff
✅ Fast, convenient scheduling
✅ Preventive maintenance and repairs available on-site
✅ Trusted by local fleets and owner-operators
✅ Competitive pricing and outstanding service
Whether you operate one truck or an entire fleet, Assured Truck Repair is your go-to partner for keeping your vehicles compliant and your business moving.
Schedule Your Annual DOT Inspection Today
Don’t wait until your certificate expires or your truck ends up out of service. Call Assured Truck Repair today to schedule your inspection and get peace of mind that your vehicle is ready for the road.