CVSA International Roadcheck 2025: Focusing on HOS and Tires

International Roadcheck Starts May 13: Focus on Logs and Tires

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) will begin its annual International Roadcheck tomorrow, May 13. This inspection event will continue through May 15. It involves a large number of commercial vehicle and driver inspections across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

What Is CVSA International Roadcheck?

International Roadcheck is a high-visibility inspection program that lasts 72 hours. During this time, law enforcement officers will inspect commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and their drivers. These inspections will take place at weigh stations, roadside inspection sites, and through mobile patrols.

The goal is to make sure drivers and vehicles are following safety regulations. All inspection data will be collected and released by CVSA this summer.

Main Focus Areas: Hours-of-Service and Tire Condition

Each year, the Roadcheck focuses on one driver issue and one vehicle issue. This year’s inspection will highlight driver hours-of-service (HOS) compliance and tire safety.

HOS rules are designed to help prevent fatigue. They do this by limiting driving hours and requiring rest breaks. Drivers must use their records of duty status (RODS) to track driving hours. These records must be accurate. If the logs are missing, incomplete, or false, drivers can be placed out of service.

On the vehicle side, inspectors will check the condition of tires. They will look at tread depth and tire inflation. They will also inspect for visible problems. This includes air leaks, bulges, cuts, or worn treads. Poor tire condition can lead to dangerous blowouts or accidents. It can also lead to costly delays for carriers.

What Happens During an International Roadcheck Inspection?

Most inspections during International Roadcheck will be a Level I Inspection. This is a 37-step process that checks both the driver and the vehicle.

For drivers, inspectors will check:

• Commercial driver’s license (CDL)
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Record of duty status (RODS)
• Seat belt use
• Signs of drug or alcohol use
• Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse status (U.S. only)
• Skill performance certificate, if needed

For vehicles, the inspection will include:

• Brake systems
• Lighting devices
• Steering and suspension
• Coupling devices
• Exhaust and fuel systems
• Cargo securement
• Tires, wheels, and rims
• Driveline and frame parts
• Windshield wipers
• Driver’s seat

Passenger vehicles like buses and vans will go through additional checks. These include emergency exits, seating, and wiring in the engine and battery compartments.

CVSA Decals and Out-of-Service Violations

Vehicles that pass Level I or Level V inspections without critical issues can receive a CVSA decal. This decal is valid for three months. It shows that the vehicle passed a recent inspection and may reduce future inspection delays.

If any out-of-service violations are found, the vehicle or driver will be pulled from operation. They cannot resume travel until the issues are corrected. These violations are based on the North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria.

Alternative International Roadcheck Inspections

In some cases, full inspections may not be possible. Bad weather or other problems may prevent it. In those cases, inspectors may perform a Level II or Level III inspection instead.

Level II is a walk-around inspection. Level III focuses on driver credentials and paperwork. However, these inspections do not qualify the vehicle for a CVSA decal.

More Than Just Enforcement

Inspectors may also take time to educate drivers during the event. They may help explain HOS rules or offer tips on tire safety.

Cooperation for Safer Roads

The CVSA is a nonprofit group that includes safety officials and industry members from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Their mission is to reduce crashes and improve commercial vehicle safety. They believe working together is key to safer roads.

International Roadcheck highlights important safety issues and encourages proactive maintenance. The goal is to keep all drivers safer on the road.

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