CVSA Roadcheck 2026 Inspections Now Underway

The 2026 edition of CVSA International Roadcheck officially began on May 12 and will continue through May 14 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

During the three-day enforcement initiative, commercial motor vehicle inspectors are conducting inspections at weigh stations, inspection facilities, and temporary roadside locations. The annual event is one of the largest commercial vehicle inspection campaigns in North America.

This year’s enforcement effort places special attention on electronic logging device (ELD) violations and cargo securement.

Inspectors Conducting Level I Inspections

During International Roadcheck, inspectors primarily perform the North American Standard Level I Inspection. This inspection includes a 37-step process covering both driver compliance and vehicle condition.

Inspectors also may conduct other inspection types, including:

• Level II inspections, which involve a walk-around review of the vehicle and driver
• Level III inspections focused on driver credentials and paperwork
• Level V inspections, which are vehicle-only inspections that may happen without the driver present

Vehicles that pass Level I or Level V inspections without critical violations may receive a CVSA decal. The decal shows the vehicle passed inspection within the previous three months without major violations.

ELD Tampering Is the Driver Focus for Roadcheck 2026

The main driver enforcement focus this year is ELD tampering, falsification, or manipulation.

Inspectors are reviewing records of duty status and checking for inaccurate or altered log entries. Officials are paying close attention to signs that electronic logging devices may have been improperly used or manipulated.

During driver inspections, officers also review:

• Commercial driver’s licenses
• Medical examiner certificates
• Hours-of-service records
• Seat belt usage
• Driver qualifications
• Signs of impairment

In the United States, inspectors also check driver records in the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse database.

Drivers found with out-of-service violations can be placed out of service immediately and may not continue operating until the issue is corrected.

Cargo Securement Is the Vehicle Focus

For vehicles, inspectors are placing additional emphasis on cargo securement during this year’s Roadcheck event.

Inspectors are examining tie-downs, chains, and straps to verify that cargo is properly secured and immobilized. They also check for damaged or improperly placed securement equipment.

Along with cargo securement, inspectors continue evaluating key mechanical components, including:

• Brake systems
• Tires and wheels
• Suspension systems
• Steering mechanisms
• Lighting devices
• Fuel and exhaust systems
• Coupling devices
• Windshield wipers
• Frames and driveline components

Passenger-carrying vehicles such as motorcoaches also receive inspections of emergency exits and electrical systems.

Vehicles with serious safety violations may be placed out of service until repairs or corrections are completed.

Roadcheck Often Impacts Freight Capacity

International Roadcheck frequently affects trucking capacity during the inspection period. Some drivers choose to stay off the road during the three-day event, which can tighten capacity in the spot market and contribute to short-term rate increases.

As Truck Driver News recently reported, spot market rates were already climbing ahead of this year’s Roadcheck event. Analysts expected the inspection initiative to place additional upward pressure on freight rates during the week.

Inspection Results to Be Released Later This Year

Once the enforcement campaign ends, inspection data from Canada, Mexico, and the United States will be collected and analyzed by the CVSA.

The organization plans to release the final results later this year, including inspection totals, out-of-service rates, and the most common violations found during the event.

CVSA is a nonprofit organization made up of commercial motor vehicle safety officials and industry representatives throughout North America. The group focuses on improving roadway safety through enforcement, education, and cooperation between regulators and the trucking industry.