A DOT-compliant annual truck inspection report checklist designed to help fleets meet regulatory requirements, verify vehicle safety, and maintain complete inspection documentation for audit readiness. Start your free inspection trial
Annual Truck Inspection Report
DOT-Compliant Safety Checklist
Inspection Purpose
Regulatory Compliance
- FMCSA requires an annual inspection per 49 CFR 396.17. A valid inspection sticker keeps trucks operating legally and avoids out-of-service orders.
Safety Verification
- A thorough annual inspection identifies worn brakes, steering defects, and frame cracks before they cause accidents or breakdowns.
Audit Readiness
- Complete inspection documentation protects the carrier during DOT audits and demonstrates a proactive safety culture.
1. Brake System
Inspect all braking components per FMCSA Appendix G criteria:
Service & Parking Brakes
Air & Hydraulic Systems
2. Coupling Devices & Exhaust
Verify coupling integrity and exhaust system safety:
Coupling Devices
Exhaust System
Fuel System
3. Steering Mechanism & Suspension
Check steering components and suspension system integrity:
Steering Mechanism
Steering Linkage
Suspension
4. Frame, Tires & Wheels
Inspect structural frame, tires, and wheel assemblies:
Frame
Tires
Wheels & Rims
5. Lighting, Glazing & Safe Loading
Verify lights, windshield, wipers, and load security:
Lighting Devices
Windshield Glazing & Wipers
Safe Loading
Digital Annual Inspection Management
Fleet Rabbit App Benefits for Annual Compliance:
- ✓ Track annual inspection due dates across your entire fleet
- ✓ Store digital copies of inspection reports for instant retrieval
- ✓ Receive automated alerts before inspections expire
- ✓ Generate audit-ready compliance reports with one click
- ✓ Assign and track corrective actions for defects found during inspection
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who can perform a DOT annual inspection?
Annual inspections must be performed by a qualified inspector—someone who has the knowledge, training, and experience to identify defects and determine if the vehicle meets FMCSR Part 393 and Part 396 standards. Many carriers use ASE-certified technicians or state-licensed facilities.
2. How long is an annual inspection valid?
The inspection is valid for 12 months from the date performed. Vehicles must display a valid sticker, and the original report must be kept on file by the carrier for at least 14 months.
3. What happens if a vehicle fails the annual inspection?
If defects are found, the vehicle cannot be operated until repairs are made. The inspector documents defects, and once repaired, the vehicle is re-inspected. The final report must show all defects were corrected before the sticker is issued.
Complete Annual Truck Inspection
Ensure every vehicle in your fleet meets DOT requirements with digital annual inspection tracking.
