If you’re a fleet manager or a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operator, inspections are a vital part of your business operations. Whether you're a new motor carrier or have decades of experience on the road, the inspections conducted under the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) framework directly impact your safety score, operational efficiency, and even customer trust.

In this article, we’ll take you through:

• What CVSA is and why it matters
• An overview of the eight levels of inspection
• The benefits of passing inspections (including the CVSA Decal)
• Tips to prepare your team
• How inspection readiness can enhance your fleet’s reputation and efficiency

What is the CVSA?

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is a non-profit association that includes representatives from local, state, provincial, territorial, and federal agencies across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. 

Its mission is simple yet vital: to improve commercial vehicle safety through inspections, training, standard-setting, and education. CVSA plays a pivotal role in ensuring that vehicles on North American roads are safe and compliant with regulations. 

8 Levels of Standard Inspection Program Every Fleet Should Know

The CVSA has established the North American Standard Inspection Program, which outlines eight levels of inspections. Each level serves a different purpose and ranges from comprehensive checks to electronic assessments.

Level I – North American Standard Inspection

This is the most thorough and common inspection type. It covers both the driver and the vehicle, taking about 45–60 minutes. Inspectors will check:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Hours of Service (HOS) compliance
• Record of Duty Status (RODS)
• Brakes, fuel system, tires, lighting, cargo securement, and more

Tip: Passing this inspection can earn your vehicle a CVSA Decal, granting a temporary exemption from further inspections.

Level II – Walk-Around Driver/Vehicle Inspection

This is similar to Level I but without physically going under the vehicle. It focuses on visible components and documentation. It takes about 30 minutes and still includes checks for driver credentials and key vehicle parts that can be observed from the outside.

Level III – Driver/Credential/Administrative Inspection

This inspection is driver-focused and doesn’t involve the vehicle. It includes:

• CDL
• Medical card
• HOS documentation
• Annual inspection report
• Hazardous material paperwork (if applicable)

Level IV – Special Inspections

These are one-time inspections often carried out to support research, verify suspected violations, or investigate emerging trends. They’re very specific and may target a single component or compliance area.

Level V – Vehicle-Only Inspection

This inspection is carried out without the driver present, usually at a carrier’s place of business. It mirrors the vehicle portion of the Level I inspection and, if passed, can also qualify the vehicle for a CVSA Decal.

Level VI – Radioactive Materials Inspection

For vehicles transporting Highway Route Controlled Quantities (HRCQ) of radioactive materials, this inspection follows stricter protocols than Level I. Any issues, especially brake problems, can result in immediate Out-of-Service (OOS) violations.

Level VII – Jurisdictional Mandated Commercial Vehicle Inspection

This level includes specialty vehicle types like school buses, limousines, taxis, hotel shuttles, and others operating within specific local or state jurisdictions. Each region may have its own criteria for these inspections.

Level VIII – North American Standard Electronic Inspection

A newer, technology-driven inspection done electronically or wirelessly while the vehicle is in motion. No physical interaction occurs, but real-time data exchange must include:

• CDL information
• HOS data
• Inspection history
• IFTA and IRP compliance

What is a CVSA Decal and Why Does It Matter?

If your vehicle passes a Level I, V, or VI inspection, it may receive a CVSA Decal, valid for three months. This decal indicates that a certified inspector verified the vehicle's roadworthiness, helping you avoid unnecessary re-inspections within that time frame.

Important: The CVSA Decal reflects only the vehicle’s condition not the driver’s compliance or documentation.

Why Should Fleet Managers Prioritize Inspection Readiness?

As a fleet manager, the impact of CVSA inspections goes far beyond compliance. Here’s how being inspection-ready benefits your operation:

Improved Safety Record

Regular inspections and preparation reduce risks for accidents, fines, or out-of-service orders. A clean safety history can protect your business from liability and insurance hikes.

Fewer Delays

Unprepared drivers and vehicles are more likely to be pulled off the road. Lost time is lost revenue. Ensuring everything is in order minimizes inspection delays and keeps schedules intact.

Better CSA Scores

The FMCSA’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program monitors performance. Good inspection outcomes lead to higher scores, which is crucial for attracting clients and retaining contracts.

Enhanced Reputation

Clients, shippers, and brokers want to work with reliable, safety-conscious carriers. A history of passing inspections can become a selling point for your business.

How to Prepare for CVSA Inspections

Preparation is a team effort. Here’s how you can help your drivers and vehicles be ready year-round, not just during Roadcheck week.

Driver Training

Ensure your drivers know:

• What documents to carry (CDL, medical card, RODS, etc.)
• How to behave professionally during inspections
• How to conduct thorough pre-trip inspections

Routine Vehicle Checks

Schedule regular internal audits to inspect:

• Brakes and ABS
• Lights and signals
• Tires and wheels
• Load securement
• Emergency equipment

Document Management

Keep maintenance logs, inspection reports, and driver documents up-to-date and accessible.

Use Technology

Leverage telematics and fleet management software to monitor vehicle performance and identify issues early.

Partner with Simply Fleet for a Safer, Smarter Operation

Inspections are not a nuisance. They’re a powerful tool to improve your fleet’s safety, performance, and reputation. At Simply Fleet, we help you simplify compliance. Our fleet management solutions ensure your vehicles are always inspection-ready, your documents are organized, and your operations are efficient. With automated reminders, pre-trip checklists, and maintenance tracking, we take the stress out of roadside inspections.

Get started today and let Simply Fleet be your partner in safety and success.