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Frequently Asked Questions
DOT Safety Audit 

DOT SAFETY AUDIT

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1. What is an FMCSA safety audit?

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  • An FMCSA Safety Audit is a review of a motor carrier’s safety management practices and regulatory compliance, conducted to ensure the carrier is operating safely and adhering to federal safety regulations.

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2. Who must undergo an FMCSA safety audit?

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  • New entrant motor carriers (those operating for less than 18 months) are required to undergo a safety audit as part of the New Entrant Safety Assurance Program. Existing carriers may also be subject to safety audits based on their safety performance.

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3. What is the purpose of a safety audit?

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  • The purpose of a safety audit is to assess a motor carrier’s safety management practices, identify potential safety issues, ensure compliance with FMCSA regulations, and provide guidance to improve safety performance.

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4. What topics are covered during a safety audit?

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    A safety audit covers various topics, including:

  • Driver qualifications

  • Hours of service (HOS) compliance

  • Vehicle maintenance

  • Drug and alcohol testing programs

  • Accident records

  • Safety management controls

  • Financial responsibility (insurance) requirements

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5. How is a safety audit conducted?

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  • Safety audits can be conducted on-site or off-site. On-site audits involve a physical review at the carrier’s location, while off-site audits are conducted remotely by submitting required documents electronically to the FMCSA.

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6. What documents are required for a safety audit?

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    Required documents typically include:

  • Driver qualification files

  • Records of duty status (logbooks) and supporting documents

  • Vehicle maintenance records

  • Drug and alcohol testing records

  • Accident reports

  • Insurance documentation

  • Any other records related to compliance with FMCSA regulations

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7. What happens if a carrier fails a safety audit?

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  • If a carrier fails a safety audit, they may receive a corrective action plan outlining specific areas that need improvement. Failure to address these issues within the specified timeframe can result in the carrier being placed out of service and having their operating authority revoked.

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8. How can carriers prepare for a safety audit?

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    Carriers can prepare by:

  • Ensuring all required documentation is complete and organized

  • Reviewing FMCSA regulations and ensuring compliance

  • Conducting internal audits to identify and correct any deficiencies

  • Training staff on regulatory requirements and safety practices

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9. How long does a safety audit take?

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  • The duration of a safety audit varies based on the complexity of the carrier’s operations and the type of audit (on-site or off-site). On average, an audit can take several hours to a few days to complete.

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10. What is the New Entrant Safety Assurance Program?

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  • The New Entrant Safety Assurance Program is designed to ensure that new motor carriers understand and comply with FMCSA safety regulations during their first 18 months of operation. New entrants must pass a safety audit to continue operating.

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11. What is the difference between a safety audit and a compliance review?

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  • A safety audit is typically conducted for new entrants to assess basic regulatory compliance and safety practices. A compliance review is a more in-depth investigation of a carrier’s safety performance and compliance, often triggered by poor safety records or significant violations.

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12. Where can I find more information or assistance?

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