2025 International Roadcheck - WHAT TO EXPECT
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) will conduct its annual International Roadcheck from May 13–15, 2025. This 72-hour inspection blitz spans the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, focusing on commercial motor vehicle and driver compliance. This year, inspectors will pay special attention to two critical areas: tires and records of duty status (RODS).Foley Services+12CVSA+12Medallion Transport & Logistics+12TruckingInfo+11Fleetio+11AssuredPartners+11
Types of International Roadcheck Inspections
CVSA inspectors conduct a routine North American Standard Level I inspection for most vehicles chosen during the International Roadcheck. However, some vehicles will receive a Level II, III or V inspection. In 2024, more than 60% of International Roadcheck inspections were Level I.
- Level I – Standard Inspection. A thorough 37-step inspection that involves checking the driver’s credentials and record of duty status (RODS) and the mechanical condition of the vehicle.
- Level II – Walk-Around Driver/Vehicle Inspection. A walk-around driver and vehicle inspection that includes items that can be inspected without physically getting under the vehicle.
- Level III – Driver/Credential Inspection. A driver-only inspection of the driver's credentials and documentation.
- Level V – Vehicle-Only Inspection. An inspection of each of the vehicle components included in a Level I inspection, without a driver present.
Vehicles that pass a Level I or Level V inspection without any critical vehicle violations will receive a CVSA decal that is valid for three months. Vehicles or drivers found to have one or more critical out-of-service (OOS) violations are removed from service and restricted from operating until all OOS violations are addressed.
What to Expect During the 2025 International Roadcheck
1. Comprehensive Level I Inspections
Inspectors will primarily conduct the North American Standard Level I Inspection, a thorough 37-step procedure that examines both driver operating requirements and vehicle mechanical fitness. This includes checks on brake systems, lighting devices, cargo securement, and more. Foley Services+4CVSA+4TheTrucker.com+4
2. Focus Area: Tires
Tires are a significant focus this year due to their critical role in vehicle safety. Inspectors will look for:Encompass Fleet Safety+11Fleetio+11Worldwide Transportation Solutions | ATS+11
- Low tread depth
- Audible air leaks
- Flat tires
- Exposed belt material or casing ply
- Tread or sidewall separation
- Bulges in the sidewall
- Improper repairs, such as rubber-coated plugs in the sidewall
- Items lodged between dual tiresFoley Services+3CVSA+3CDLLife+3Fleetio+2CDLLife+2CVSA+2
Proper tire maintenance is essential to prevent hazards and costly delays. AssuredPartners+4CVSA+4CDLLife+4
3. Focus Area: Records of Duty Status (RODS)
Accurate RODS are vital for ensuring compliance with hours-of-service (HOS) regulations, which are designed to prevent driver fatigue. Inspectors will examine:Worldwide Transportation Solutions | ATS+7CVSA+7CDLLife+7
- Accuracy and completeness of logs
- Falsified or missing records
- Proper certification of daily logs
- Availability of electronic logging device (ELD) instruction sheets
- Presence of at least eight blank paper logs as a backupTruckingInfo+13OTR Performance® Inc.+13Worldwide Transportation Solutions | ATS+13Foley Services+2CRST The Transportation Solution, Inc.+2OTR Performance® Inc.+2
Non-compliance can result in drivers being placed out of service and potential legal consequences. CVSA+3TheTrucker.com+3OTR Performance® Inc.+3
Preparing for the Roadcheck
For Drivers:
- Conduct thorough pre-trip inspections, focusing on tire condition and inflation.
- Ensure RODS are up-to-date and accurately reflect duty status.
- Carry necessary documentation, including CDL, medical certificates, and ELD instructions.
- Maintain at least eight blank paper logs in case of ELD malfunction.
For Carriers:
- Verify that all vehicles have current periodic/annual inspections.
- Address any outstanding vehicle defects promptly.
- Ensure maintenance personnel are aware of inspection requirements.
- Educate drivers on the importance of compliance and proper documentation.
Below are the top five vehicle out-of-service violations found during the 2024 Roadcheck, as well as what CVSA inspectors check for during a Level I or Level V inspection.
- Defective Service Brakes (3,387 OOS Violations, 25% of Total) –
- Tires (2,821 OOS Violations, 20.8% of Total)
- Other Brake Violations (2,486 OOS Violations, 18.3% of Total) –
- Lights (1,569 OOS Violations, 11.6% of Total) Trailer LIghts Available @RatchetStrap.com
- Cargo Securement (1,303 OOS Violations, 9.6% of Total) RatchetStrap.com is available to custom quote (Ratchet Straps, Corner Boards, Winch Products, Etc.)
The Importance of Compliance
Participation in the International Roadcheck is not only a regulatory requirement but also an opportunity to demonstrate commitment to safety and operational excellence. Carriers and drivers who pass inspections may receive a CVSA decal, indicating compliance and potentially reducing the likelihood of future inspections. CRST The Transportation Solution, Inc.
By focusing on tire maintenance and accurate RODS, carriers and drivers can ensure they are prepared for the 2025 International Roadcheck, promoting safety and efficiency across the transportation industry. RatchetStrap.com is her to help educate and has the product you need to safely get you down the road.