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Safety Inspections and Challenges

FMCSA DataQs

Visit the FMCSA website to get DataQs information.

Safety Inspections

See FMCSR Part 396 for complete information about inspection requirements and enforcement for motor vehicles. 
Common Inspection Procedures

Inspection Reports

Motor carriers can view their vehicle and driver safety inspection reports through their Oregon Trucking Online account.
Sign and Return Inspection Forms (within 15 days) to:
       ODOT Commerce and Compliance Division
       455 Airport Road SE, Building A
       Salem, OR 97301
       Fax: 503-373-7481 

Inspection Follow-Up Requirements

  • Correct all violations listed on the inspection form and have a company official sign the form.
  • A repair person must also sign the form if a vehicle had a critical safety violation.
  • If violations are related to the driver, the company official´s signature certifies that action was taken to assure future safety compliance.
Types of Safety Inspections conducted in North America

Level 1 — A complete inspection that includes a check of the:

  • Driver´s license.
  • Medical examiner´s certificate or waiver.
  • Alcohol and drugs.
  • Hours of service.
  • Seat belt.
  • Vehicle inspection report.
  • Brake system.
  • Coupling devices.
  • Exhaust system.
  • Frame.
  • Fuel system.
  • Turn signals.
  • Brake and tail lamps.
  • Headlamps.
  • Lamps on loads.
  • Load securement.
  • Steering.
  • Suspension.
  • Tires.
  • Van and open-top trailer bodies.
  • Wheels and rims.
  • Windshield wipers.
  • Emergency exits on buses and hazardous materials requirements as applicable.

Level 2 — A "walk-around" inspection includes a check of each of the items in a Level I inspection except those that require the inspector to physically get under the truck.

Level 3 — An inspection of just the driver-related items in a Level I inspection.

Level 4 — A special inspection that is typically a one-time examination of a particular item for a safety study or done to verify or refute a suspected trend.

Level 5 — An inspection of just the truck-related items in a Level I inspection.

Level 6 — An inspection of a shipment of highway-route-controlled quantities of radiological material. A Level VI inspection includes an enhanced check of each of the items in a Level I inspection.

Safety Compliance Review FAQs

What is a Compliance Review?
It is a comprehensive analysis of a motor carrier’s compliance with federal and state motor carrier safety and hazardous materials/waste (if applicable) regulations. Compliance reviews play a pivotal role in minimizing truck at-fault accidents in Oregon.

Who does this apply to?
Compliance reviews apply to all Oregon-based for-hire and private motor carriers operating in interstate or intrastate commerce with commercial motor vehicles of 10,001 pounds or more and/or transporting hazardous materials/waste.

Who conducts the Compliance Review?
Safety Investigators in the Commerce and Compliance Division of the Oregon Department of Transportation conduct compliance reviews as certified agents of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

I don’t think I am a motor carrier. Why do I have to comply?
If you use commercial motor vehicles that are 10,001 pounds or more as part of your business, you are most likely subject to many of the Federal and State rules and regulations and are required to comply.

Is a Compliance Review similar to a New Entrant Safety Audit?
A compliance review is similar in some ways, but it is more extensive and requires an in-depth review of carrier records and operations. It still involves the same Federal and State regulations.

Where do these compliance reviews take place?
These reviews are generally conducted on-site at the motor carrier’s principal place of business with preferably one or more company officials.

Why did I get picked for a review?
Many factors go into a decision to conduct a compliance review of a motor carrier’s operations, including results of roadside inspections and crash frequency.

Why is it necessary for a Compliance Review to be done?
A compliance review allows Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to verify what policies and procedures motor carriers have in place and identify compliance shortfalls. Reviews also provide an opportunity to furnish motor carriers with valuable education and tools to aid future compliance.

What if I don’t comply with the Compliance Review process?
Oregon statute requires compliance. Monetary penalties will be assessed and a carrier’s authority will be cancelled or suspended for non-compliance.

What information areas will you be reviewing for compliance?
The following areas of compliance will be reviewed:
  • Drug and alcohol requirements.
  • Maintenance requirements.
  • Hours of Service requirements.
  • Operating authority requirements.
  • Financial responsibility/Insurance requirements.
  • Driver qualification and CDL requirements.
  • Accident information requirements.
  • Hazardous materials/waste requirements.
What time period does the Compliance Review cover?
Generally, motor carrier operations within the last 12 months.

Where can I find the requirements? I need to meet for compliance.
The Safety chapter of the ODOT Motor Carrier Education Manual is a key resource to help you understand requirements.

Contact Information

Roadside Truck Inspections
Phone: 503-373-0982
Fax: 503-373-7481
Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.