to perform Federal Annual Inspections on that vehicle class under FMCSA guidelines. This recognition reflects the equivalency between the knowledge and training required for state safety inspection certification and the federal qualification standards. Motor carriers are responsible for maintaining records showing each inspector’s qualifications and the results of every inspection performed. WHAT THE INSPECTION COVERS The Federal Annual Inspection is a thorough, component-by-component review of the vehicle’s safety systems. Inspectors must examine and verify the condition of each item listed in Appendix G, including: • Brakes: Service and parking brakes, drums, rotors, hoses, linings and warning devices. • Steering: Steering column, gearbox, linkage and power assist components. • Lights and reflectors: Headlamps, tail lamps, turn signals, clearance lamps and reflectors. • Tires and wheels: Tread depth, inflation and evidence of cracking or missing lugs. • Windshield and wipers: Clear visibility and proper operation. • Coupling devices: Fifth wheels, pintle hooks and safety chains. • Suspension and frame: Springs, torque arms, bushings, cracks and corrosion. • Fuel and exhaust systems: Leaks, secure mounting and proper routing. • Emergency equipment: Fire extinguisher, warning triangles and spare fuses. Each inspection must be documented using a Federal Annual Inspection Report or an equivalent form that meets FMCSA standards. DOCUMENTATION AND RECORDKEEPING Compliance does not end when the inspection is complete. Carriers are required to keep a copy of the inspection report for 14 months from the date it was performed. Each commercial vehicle must also display a valid inspection decal or carry a copy of the report inside the vehicle. If the vehicle fails the inspection, the defects must be corrected before it is returned to service. Operating without a valid annual inspection can lead to citations, fines and possible out-of-service orders. RELATIONSHIP TO STATE INSPECTIONS It’s important for New Hampshire dealers and repairers to understand that the repeal of the state’s annual inspection program does not affect the federal requirement for commercial vehicles. Even in the absence of a state-mandated safety inspection, commercial vehicles operating in interstate commerce, or under FMCSA authority, must still comply with the annual inspection provisions of 49 CFR §396.17. In other words, while personal vehicles may no longer require a yearly inspection starting in 2026, commercial motor vehicles will still be required to undergo one annually under federal law. STATE INSPECTORS — YOU MAY ALREADY BE QUALIFIED If you were once a certified New Hampshire state inspector licensed to inspect the same vehicle class you intend to inspect under federal law, you are already qualified to perform a Federal Annual Inspection on that vehicle class. The FMCSA recognizes prior state certification as meeting the training, knowledge and experience standards outlined in 49 CFR §396.19. In practice, this means: • Former state inspectors do not need to obtain a new federal credential. • You must still document your qualification (such as keeping a copy of your former state license or training record). • Inspections must follow Appendix G of the FMCSRs and be recorded on a compliant Federal Annual Inspection Report. For many New Hampshire dealers and technicians, this offers a smooth transition: existing expertise and inspection experience carry forward under the federal framework. WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW Those who sell or service commercial vehicles can play a key role in maintaining compliance. Those with qualified technicians and proper documentation may be able to perform Federal Annual Inspections for customers, providing a valuable service to fleets and carriers. FINAL THOUGHTS As New Hampshire navigates changes to its inspection framework, federal safety obligations remain unchanged. The Federal Annual Inspection serves as the minimum national standard for ensuring that the vehicles traveling on our roads are mechanically sound and safe to operate. For carriers, technicians and dealers, maintaining compliance is not just a legal requirement; it’s a commitment to the safety of everyone who shares the highway. 9
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