Prepare for the CVSA International Roadcheck: What You Need to Know

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) International Roadcheck is fast approaching, set to take place from May 13-15th, 2025. This high-visibility, high-volume inspection initiative aims to enforce regulatory compliance across commercial motor vehicles and their drivers. It will span three days and involve thorough inspections throughout Canada, Mexico, and the United States, focusing on safety and regulatory adherence.

During the Roadcheck, law enforcement personnel will be stationed at weigh/inspection stations and temporary locations, and mobile patrols will be conducted to inspect commercial vehicles and drivers. The goal is to ensure compliance with a wide range of regulations, and the results of these inspections will be compiled and shared later this summer.

As always, the International Roadcheck will highlight specific focus areas for both driver and vehicle violations. Inspectors will primarily conduct the North American Standard Level I Inspection, a comprehensive 37-step procedure that evaluates both the driver’s operating requirements and the vehicle’s mechanical condition. While every aspect of the inspection is essential, this year’s Roadcheck will place additional emphasis on the driver’s record of duty status (RODS) and the vehicle’s tires.

Driver Focus: Ensuring Hours-of-Service Compliance

One key area of focus during the International Roadcheck is Hours-of-Service (HOS) compliance. These regulations are designed to prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue by limiting the number of hours a commercial driver can operate a vehicle without proper rest. To ensure these regulations are followed, drivers must accurately document their driving hours in their Record of Duty Status (RODS). Failure to maintain or properly complete these logs—whether due to oversight or intentional falsification—can result in serious penalties, including being placed out of service.

Inspectors will verify several aspects of a driver’s compliance, including their driving license, medical examiner’s certificate, seatbelt use, and most importantly, their RODS. They’ll also check the driver’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse status (in the U.S.) to confirm that the driver is not impaired. If violations are found, the driver may be immediately placed out of service and prohibited from operating the vehicle.

Vehicle Focus: Tire Maintenance and Vehicle Safety

Vehicle safety is another critical aspect of the Roadcheck, with particular attention given to tire maintenance. Tire failure can be catastrophic, not just for the driver but for all road users. Ensuring tires are in optimal condition is essential for safe operation. Inspectors will closely examine tire tread depth, inflation levels, and look for signs of damage such as bulges, cuts, or improper repairs. Regular tire maintenance can prevent costly, in-transit failures that disrupt operations and pose safety risks.

The Level I Inspection also involves checking other vehicle components such as the brake systems, cargo securement, driveline parts, fuel and exhaust systems, suspension, and lighting devices. Any critical violations found during the inspection can result in the vehicle being placed out of service, and repairs must be made before it can return to the road.

For passenger vehicles like motorcoaches or vans, inspectors will also examine emergency exits, seating arrangements, and electrical systems. Vehicles that pass a Level I or V inspection without major violations may earn a CVSA decal, valid for up to three months, signifying that they are in compliance.

Be Prepared for a Safe Roadcheck

With the International Roadcheck around the corner, now is the time for commercial vehicle operators and drivers to review their compliance with safety regulations. Focusing on critical areas like hours-of-service logs and tire maintenance can help ensure your vehicle and drivers are ready for inspection. By taking proactive steps, you not only help maintain safety on the roads but also avoid costly fines and operational disruptions. Stay prepared, and your vehicle may earn that coveted CVSA decal.

To ensure your fleet is fully prepared for the upcoming Roadcheck, contact your trusted fleet management team, Truck Service Inc., to make sure your vehicles are up to code. We can help you stay ahead of inspections and avoid any potential disruptions.