Definition
The "annual inspection," formally the periodic inspection, is required by 49 CFR 396.17. A motor carrier may not use a commercial motor vehicle unless each component listed in Appendix A to Part 396 has passed an inspection at least once during the preceding 12 months and documentation of that inspection is on the vehicle. Each unit of a combination, such as a tractor, semitrailer, full trailer and converter dolly, is inspected separately.
What it covers
Appendix A lists 15 areas: brake system, coupling devices, exhaust, fuel, lighting, safe loading, steering, suspension, frame, tires, wheels and rims, windshield glazing, windshield wipers, motorcoach seats and rear impact guard. A vehicle does not pass if any listed defect is present.
Who can perform it
The carrier itself, or a commercial garage, fleet leasing company, truck stop or similar business acting as its agent, using an inspector qualified under 49 CFR 396.19. A vehicle that passes a state program meeting Appendix A is covered for 12 months from the last day of the month of inspection.
Records
The inspector prepares a report under 49 CFR 396.21 identifying the inspector, carrier, date, vehicle and the components inspected with results, and certifies it. The report is kept fourteen months. Proof on the vehicle can be the report or a decal with the date, the name and address of the entity holding the report, vehicle identification if needed, and a certification of passing.
For shops
Annual inspections are recurring work for every unit a fleet runs. See the DOT annual inspection checklist and how to do a DOT annual inspection. MetaFleet can schedule inspection reminders and run inspections from your own PDF form; see inspections and DVIRs.