Roadside inspections help ensure safety and compliance with federal regulations. Motive supports drivers and fleet users during these inspections with resources that make it easy to access and share required compliance data—such as DOT inspection mode in the Motive Driver App.
Overview
Being prepared for a roadside inspection helps drivers avoid delays, fines, or being placed out of service. Motive makes it easier for drivers and fleet users to manage inspections and stay compliant with U.S. and Canadian regulations.
- Simplify inspections: The Motive Driver App includes a DOT inspection mode that organizes and displays required logs and documents with a single tap.
- Ensure data compliance: Drivers can generate and send ELD-compliant log files to officers by email or web service, meeting FMCSA and Canadian rules.
- Protect driver privacy: Inspection mode can be locked with an access code, so officers can only see what’s required and not any personal messages or private data on the device
Inspection requirements
During a roadside inspection, Department of Transportation (DOT) officers check whether both the driver and the vehicle meet federal or provincial safety regulations. This includes reviewing driver documents, hours of service (HOS) logs, and inspecting the vehicle itself.
What DOT officers check
An inspection often begins with a short interview and a review of documents. Officers may ask to see:
- Commercial driver’s license (CDL)
- Medical examiner’s certificate
- Record of Duty Status (RODS) for the current day and the previous 7 days (U.S.) or 14 days (Canada)
- Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIR)
- Shipping papers and hazardous materials documentation (if applicable)
The vehicle check may range from a basic walk-around to a detailed inspection of brakes, lights, tires, steering, and how cargo is secured.
Types of inspections
There are several DOT inspection levels. The most common include:
- Level I: North American Standard Inspection: A full inspection of both driver credentials and vehicle mechanics.
- Level II: Walk-around driver/vehicle inspection: Similar to Level I, but the officer does not go under the vehicle.
- Level III: Driver/credential/administrative inspection: Focuses only on driver documents, such as the CDL, medical certificate, and HOS logs.
Differences between U.S. and Canadian roadside inspections:
- Log history: U.S. inspections require logs for the current day and the previous 7 days. Canadian inspections require logs for the current day and the previous 14 days.
- Data transfer: In the U.S., the officer’s email is pre-programmed in the ELD. In Canada, the officer provides an email address to the driver at the time of inspection.
Managing inspections
The Motive Driver App simplifies roadside inspections with DOT inspection mode, a feature that lets drivers quickly show their logs or send them to an officer.
How drivers access DOT inspection mode in the Motive Driver App:
- In the Motive Driver App, tap the menu icon on the main screen.
- Tap DOT inspection mode.
To show logs on the device, tap Begin inspection. The officer can swipe through the required log days.
- To send an ELD output file, tap Send output file and select the transfer method (web service or email) requested by the officer.
- To email or fax a copy of the logs, tap Send logs, then enter the officer’s email or fax number.
Best practices
- Be prepared: Before each trip, make sure you have all the required in-cab documents. This includes the ELD user manual, malfunction instruction sheet, and at least 8 days of blank paper logs.
- Stay connected: Always keep the Motive Driver App connected to the Vehicle Gateway, and ensure the gateway stays plugged in with the engine running. This helps maintain accurate log data.
- Be proactive: Complete pre-trip and post-trip DVIRs to catch any defects before an officer does.
- Be professional: Stay calm, be respectful, and answer all questions honestly to help the inspection go smoothly.
FAQs
How do I show my logs to an officer using the Motive Driver App?
To display or send your logs during an inspection, follow these steps in the Motive Driver App:
- Tap the menu icon.
- Select DOT inspection mode.
- Tap Begin inspection to display logs on the screen for the officer.
- To transfer logs electronically, tap Send output file and choose the officer’s preferred method (web service or email).
What is the difference between a Level I and a Level III inspection?
A Level I inspection includes a full review of the driver's documents and a physical inspection of the vehicle. A Level III inspection covers only the driver’s credentials, such as their license, medical certificate, and HOS logs
Can I prevent an officer from seeing other information on my phone?
Yes. To limit access to only inspection-related information, follow these steps:
- Before tapping Begin inspection, press and hold the button.
- Set a 4-digit access code when prompted.
- The app will lock in DOT inspection mode, hiding other information like messages or personal data.
What should I do if my ELD malfunctions during an inspection?
If your ELD is not working, you must provide logs for the current 24-hour period and the previous 7 days using your supply of paper logs. You also need to notify your motor carrier in writing within 24 hours of the malfunction.
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