BY JAY O’LEARY GOVERNMENT RELATIONS & COMPLIANCE SPECIALIST, NHADA Even as New Hampshire transitions away from its long-standing state vehicle inspection program, one crucial fact remains: Federal law still requires many commercial vehicles to undergo a Federal Annual Inspection every 12 months. This inspection, governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), serves as the foundation of the nation’s effort to keep commercial vehicles mechanically safe and roadworthy. WHAT IS THE FEDERAL ANNUAL INSPECTION? Under 49 CFR §396.17, every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operated in interstate commerce, or certain intrastate operations that meet federal definitions, must pass a full safety inspection each year. The process ensures that trucks, buses and trailers meet the minimum standards for safe operation as outlined in Appendix G to the FMCSRs. The requirement applies to several categories of vehicles, including: • Those with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), gross combination weight rating (GCWR) or actual weight of 10,001 pounds or more. • Vehicles transporting hazardous materials requiring placards under 49 CFR Part 172. • Passenger vehicles designed to carry more than eight passengers for hire, or more than 15 if not for hire. In short, if a vehicle is used in commerce and meets these thresholds, it must undergo and pass the federal inspection annually. THE PURPOSE BEHIND THE REQUIREMENT The intent of the Federal Annual Inspection is simple: to prevent crashes caused by vehicle defects and ensure uniform national safety standards. Federal regulators recognize that even minor mechanical failures, such as worn brakes or steering issues, can lead to catastrophic consequences when they occur on large or heavy vehicles. By requiring consistent, documented inspections, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) helps maintain accountability among carriers, drivers and maintenance facilities across all states. WHO CAN PERFORM THE INSPECTION? The inspection must be carried out by a qualified inspector — someone with the training, knowledge or experience necessary to accurately evaluate the condition of commercial vehicles. Under 49 CFR §396.19, an inspector must understand the methods, procedures, tools and equipment used to perform safety inspections and must be able to identify when a component fails to meet federal standards. Qualified inspectors may include: • A carrier’s own maintenance employee with documented qualifications. • A licensed dealer or commercial garage meeting FMCSA standards. • A third-party inspection service or technician certified through a recognized training program. Importantly, if you were once a certified state inspector licensed to conduct safety inspections on the same class of vehicle you intend to inspect, you are considered qualified THE FEDERAL ANNUAL INSPECTION What Dealers and Carriers Need to Know 8
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