The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) will hold its annual International Roadcheck from May 13-15, 2025, a 72-hour enforcement blitz across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. This high-visibility initiative targets commercial motor vehicles and drivers to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Inspection data collected during the event will be analyzed, with results published this summer.

What to Expect During Roadcheck

Law enforcement will conduct inspections at weigh stations, temporary sites, and via mobile patrols, primarily using the North American Standard Level I Inspection—a thorough 37-step process evaluating driver credentials and vehicle mechanical fitness. While all steps will be completed, this year’s Roadcheck emphasizes two key areas: driver’s record of duty status (RODS) and vehicle tires.

Driver Focus: Hours-of-Service Compliance

Hours-of-service (HOS) rules limit driving time and mandate rest breaks to prevent fatigue-related crashes. Drivers must accurately maintain their RODS, a log tracking driving activity and duty status. Violations, such as incomplete logs, falsification, or failure to retain records, can result in an out-of-service order, halting operations and potentially leading to prosecution.

Inspectors will verify:

• Commercial driver’s license and medical certificates
• RODS accuracy
• Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse status (U.S. only)
• Seat belt use and signs of impairment

Drivers with critical violations will be placed out of service, prohibiting them from operating until issues are resolved.

Vehicle Focus: Tire Maintenance

Proper tire condition is critical for road safety and cost efficiency. Tire failures during transit pose risks to all motorists and lead to costly repairs. Inspectors will check:

• Tread depth and tire inflation
• Damage like air leaks, tread separation, cuts, bulges, or sidewall issues
• Evidence of improper repairs

The Level I Inspection also covers brake systems, cargo securement, lighting, steering, suspension, and more. For passenger vehicles, additional checks include emergency exits and electrical systems. Vehicles passing a Level I or V Inspection without critical violations may earn a CVSA decal, valid for three months.

Out-of-Service Violations

If inspectors identify violations listed in the North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria, the driver or vehicle will be restricted from operating until corrections are made. This ensures safety risks are addressed promptly.

Additional Inspection Details

In cases of inclement weather or other limitations, inspectors may conduct a Level II Walk-Around Inspection or Level III Driver/Credential Inspection instead of a Level I. These inspections do not qualify for a CVSA decal. Inspectors will also be available to answer questions about HOS rules, tire maintenance, and compliance, offering guidance to drivers and carriers.

Why It Matters

International Roadcheck underscores the importance of regulatory compliance to enhance road safety. By spotlighting HOS adherence and tire health, CVSA aims to reduce fatigue-related incidents and tire-related hazards, protecting drivers and the public.

For more information on International Roadcheck or to prepare for inspections, visit the CVSA website or contact your local transportation authority. Stay compliant, stay safe!