For anyone in the commercial trucking business, Department of Transportation (DOT) inspections are a routine, though often nerve-wracking, part of life on the road. These inspections ensure safety, accountability, and compliance with federal and state regulations. Among the six main levels of DOT inspections (and two lesser-known ones), Level 2 inspections are by far the most common. Yet many fleet managers and drivers are still unsure about what to expect and how to properly prepare.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Level 2 DOT Inspection—from what it involves to how you can prepare your fleet, avoid violations, and improve overall safety ratings.

What Is a Level 2 DOT Inspection?

A Level 2 DOT Inspection, officially known as the Walk-Around Driver and Vehicle Inspection, is conducted by DOT officers or state troopers in partnership with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

The key difference between a Level 2 and the more comprehensive Level 1 inspection is that the inspector does not go underneath the vehicle. Instead, they perform a walk-around inspection, checking the driver’s credentials and visible parts of the truck and trailer. These inspections typically take place at weigh stations, roadside checkpoints, or safe pull-off areas.

If a violation is discovered, whether it’s a mechanical issue or paperwork problem, the vehicle or driver may be placed out of service until the issue is resolved.

Why It Matters: Level 2 Is the Most Common DOT Inspection

According to industry statistics:

• Level 2 inspections account for 36.3% of all DOT inspections.
• Level 3 (driver-only inspection) makes up about 34.5%.
• Level 1 (full vehicle and driver inspection) accounts for 29.2%.

Given its high frequency, fleet managers must treat Level 2 inspections as a standard operating concern. Proper training, documentation management, and vehicle upkeep should be non-negotiable.

Where and When Do Level 2 Inspections Happen?

Unlike Level 1 inspections, which often require inspection pits or fixed stations, Level 2 inspections are typically conducted on the roadside or at weigh stations, making them more spontaneous and likely to catch drivers off-guard.

These inspections can also spike during CVSA’s International Roadcheck Week, a nationwide DOT enforcement event held annually. During this period, inspectors may opt for more Level 2s because they can’t get underneath every truck efficiently.

What Do Inspectors Check in a Level 2 DOT Inspection?

A Level 2 inspection covers both driver qualifications and visible vehicle components. Here’s a quick checklist:

Driver-Focused Checks

• CDL and Skill Performance Evaluation Certificate (if applicable)
• Medical Examiner Certificate
• Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse status
• Hours of Service (HOS) logs and supporting documents (ELD)
• Seatbelt usage and condition
• Signs of fatigue or substance impairment

Vehicle Walk-Around Checks

• Windshield, wipers, and washer fluid
• Brake system (visual only—no slack adjuster measurement)
• Engine compartment (driveshaft, fuel system, exhaust, electrical)
• Lighting devices and reflective sheeting
• Tires, wheels, hubs, and rims
• Frame, body, suspension, and steering
• Coupling devices
• Cargo securement
• Review of DVIRs (Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports)

What Happens If You Fail?

If a serious violation is found, the officer may issue an out-of-service order, which prevents the driver or truck from continuing until the issue is fixed. Violations and inspection results are recorded in the Driver Vehicle Examination Report (DVER).

Important note for fleet operators:

• The driver must submit the DVER to your company within 24 hours.
• A signed copy must be sent to the inspecting state within 15 days.
• All violations are reflected in your CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores and the driver’s PSP (Pre-Employment Screening Program) record.

Keep all repair receipts and reports attached to the DVER for your Driver Qualification File (DQF).

Level 2 vs Level 1 vs Level 3 vs Annual Inspection

Level 1

• More detailed than Level 2.
• Includes inspection underneath the truck.
• Can be converted from Level 2 if serious issues are found.
• Performed at fixed inspection stations.

Level 3

• Driver-only inspection.
• No physical inspection of the vehicle unless a visible issue is spotted.
• Often upgraded to Level 2 if a truck defect is seen (e.g. flat tire).

Annual DOT Inspection

• Done by qualified mechanics in a garage or maintenance shop.
• Far more thorough than roadside inspections.
• Level 2 is done spontaneously roadside by law enforcement.

Can You Get a CVSA Sticker After a Level 2 Inspection?

No. CVSA (Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance) stickers are only issued if a vehicle passes a Level 1 inspection. While a Level 2 pass improves your CSA score, it doesn’t earn the sticker or the "3-month pass" from future inspections.

Tips for Fleet Managers to Prepare for Level 2 Inspections

As a fleet manager, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your drivers and trucks are inspection-ready every day. Here’s how:

Train Drivers on Inspection Protocol

Educate drivers about what to expect during Level 2 inspections. Share checklists, conduct mock inspections, and emphasize professional behavior.

Ensure Daily Pre-Trip Inspections

Encourage detailed pre-trip and post-trip inspections, with proper DVIR entries and issue reporting.

Digitise and Organise Documentation

Implement fleet management software to store and access:

• Driver documents
• Inspection history
• Maintenance records
• ELD data and HOS logs

Proactively Maintain Your Fleet

Stay ahead of wear and tear. Don’t wait for parts to fail. Proactive maintenance saves downtime and keeps CSA scores clean.

Monitor Compliance Trends

Keep tabs on CVSA enforcement events and industry updates. Prepare your team before blitz weeks and inspection spikes.

Level 2 DOT Inspections Are Fleet's Responsibility

DOT Level 2 inspections may not be as in-depth as Level 1s, but they are far more common—and just as impactful when things go wrong. At Simply Fleet, we help fleet operators simplify inspections, track vehicle health, and manage driver documentation—all from one platform. Whether it's prepping for a DOT Level 2 inspection or maintaining CSA scores, our digital tools do the heavy lifting so your team can focus on the road.

Book a free demo today and keep your fleet inspection-ready!