Annual periodic DOT vehicle inspection (49 CFR 396.17)
Have each vehicle pass an annual DOT periodic inspection and keep the report on file.
- Filed with
- A qualified inspector
- Cost
- ~$50–150 per vehicle
- Time
- ~1 hour
What you'll need
- The vehicle
- A qualified inspector or inspection station
Step by step
- 1
Find a qualified inspector
Many shops — and some CDL holders — qualify.
- 2
Pass the periodic inspection
Covers brakes, steering, lighting, tires, and more.
- 3
Keep the report and decal
Retain the inspection report for 14 months.
Worth knowing
- A clean roadside CVSA inspection can substitute for the annual one.
Fact-checked June 2026. Fees, screens, and dates change — always reconfirm at the official source at filing time.
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