Annual Minimum Periodic Inspection Standards

Every commercial motor vehicle must be inspected every 12 months by a qualified inspector who has training or certification to inspect and maintain commercial motor vehicles. The term commercial motor vehicle includes each vehicle in a combination vehicle. For example, for a tractor semitrailer, full trailer combination, the tractor, semitrailer, and the full trailer (including the converter dolly if so equipped) must each be inspected.

A vehicle does not pass an inspection if it has one of the defects or deficiencies listed in:

Appendix G to Subchapter B of Chapter III—Minimum Periodic Inspection Standards

Common Questions:

Must each vehicle in a combination carry separate periodic inspection documentation?

Yes, Unless a single document clearly identifies all of the vehicles in the Commercial Vehicle Combination (CMV)

Is new equipment required to pass a periodic inspection under §396.17?

Yes. The initial periodic inspection documentation may be provided by the dealer.

Is a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) subject to a road side inspection by State or Federal inspectors if it displays a periodic inspection decal or other evidence of a periodic inspection being conducted in the past 12 months?

Yes. Evidence of a valid periodic inspection only precludes a citation for a violation of §396.17.

Must a specific form be used to record the periodic inspection mandated by §396.17?

No. Section 396.21 does not designate any particular form, decal, or sticker, but does specify the information which must be shown on these documents.

If an inter modal container is attached to a chassis at the time of a periodic inspection, must the container also be inspected to comply with §396.17 inspection requirements?

Yes. Safe loading is one of the inspection areas covered under appendix G. If the chassis is loaded at the time of inspection, the method of securement of the container to the chassis must be included in the inspection

Is it acceptable for the proof of periodic inspection to be written in Spanish?

Yes. There is no requirement under §396.17, or appendix G to subchapter B that the proof of periodic inspection be written in English.