2025 CVSA Roadcheck Guide for Truckers

Recently updated on May 30th, 2025

Staying road-ready isn’t just about delivering loads on time — it’s also about keeping your truck safe, compliant, and in peak condition. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) Roadcheck reminds drivers how important it is every year. The 2025 CVSA Roadcheck will once again bring countless semi-truck inspections to North America, putting equipment, paperwork, and driver readiness under the spotlight.

At LubeZone Truck Lube Centers, we know how vital your time, safety, and bottom line are. That’s why we’re not just here to help you prepare — we’re your trusted partner in fast, reliable maintenance services designed with truckers in mind. From quick oil changes to thorough preventative maintenance checks, we keep you rolling with minimal downtime and maximum confidence.

In this guide, we’ll break down what to expect during the 2025 CVSA Roadcheck, walk you through CVSA inspection levels for 2025, and give you a complete CVSA inspection checklist to ensure you pass with flying colors.

What Is the CVSA Roadcheck?

Every year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) holds an inspection blitz called the CVSA Roadcheck. It’s one of the largest targeted enforcement events for commercial motor vehicles, where CVSA-certified inspectors conduct compliance, enforcement, and educational initiatives.

It’s the most extensive targeted enforcement program on commercial motor vehicles across the globe, and according to the CVSA, they perform 15 truck and motor coach inspections every minute across North America.

The goal is to keep roads safe for everyone by making sure trucks and drivers meet critical safety standards. For truckers, that means staying ready — because when the inspectors roll out, you need to roll through smoothly.

The initiative began in 1988, and roadside inspections have exceeded 1.8 million since its inception. The Annual Blitz has several big-name sponsors, including:

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
• Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
• Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators
• Transport Canada
• Mexico’s Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation

The annual event targets drivers in three countries across North America:

• The United States
• Canada
• Mexico

Failing an inspection during the 2025 CVSA Roadcheck can mean costly downtime, fines, or even being placed out of service. This is why it’s crucial to stay prepared. Passing an inspection smoothly helps keep you moving and protects your livelihood.

Why Is There an Annual Blitz?

Each year, the CVSA highlights specific safety areas during the blitz based on recent trends in violations. The primary goal is to make roadways safer for everyone. Since over 400,000 motor vehicle accidents involving a semi-truck occur in America each year (FMCSA), improving safety is crucial to reducing casualties, fatalities, and costly repairs.

By focusing on inspections, the CVSA helps to raise industry awareness and tackle the most significant risk factors. For truckers, understanding these priorities is the key to staying compliant and avoiding unnecessary penalties.

Since commercial trucks play a vital role in the North American economy, ensuring that each vehicle is properly maintained and each driver operates legally helps reduce accidents, mechanical failures, and unsafe practices.

Key Dates for the 2025 Roadcheck

The Annual CVSA Roadcheck is a three-day event. This year, it will take place from May 13 to 15. Planning ahead means giving yourself time to double-check maintenance, organize documentation, and avoid scrambling at the last minute. Since the Roadcheck typically focuses on specific inspection areas each year, staying ahead of the curve can mean the difference between a quick pass and unexpected downtime.

At LubeZone, we’re here to help you stay ready. With fast, no-appointment-needed services at locations across the country, we’ll help make sure you’re in top shape before the blitz begins. Whether you need a preventive maintenance check, fluid service, or a quick lube, we’ve got your back. Roll through the 2025 CVSA Roadcheck with ease.

CVSA Inspection Levels 2025

The CVSA uses eight different inspection levels during its annual check — however, levels one through five are typically the most relevant for commercial truckers. Each year, the organization releases reports that detail the most common violations, driver trends, and other key findings.

Let’s examine the CVSA inspection levels for 2025 so you can best prepare. We’re here to provide a comprehensive CVSA inspection checklist so you can enter the blitz with confidence.

Level I: Comprehensive Vehicle & Driver Inspection

Level I is a 37-step comprehensive vehicle and driver inspection that examines the driver’s credentials and components. This is the most common inspection level during the event. It is considered the “gold standard of compliance and accounts for the driver’s hours-of-service records.

CVSA Inspection Checklist: Level I

• Medical Examiner’s Certificate
• Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) Certificate (if applicable)
• Alcohol and Drugs
• Driver’s Record of Duty Status, as required
• Hours of Service
• Seat Belt
• Vehicle Inspection Report(s) (if applicable)
• Brake Systems
• Cargo Securement
• Coupling Devices
• Driveline/Driveshaft
• Exhaust Systems
• Frames
• Fuel Systems
• Lighting Devices (headlamps, tail lamps, stop lamps, turn signals, and lamps/flags on projecting loads)
• Steering Mechanisms
• Suspensions
• Tires
• Van and Open-Top Trailer Bodies
• Wheels
• Rims and Hubs
• Windshield Wipers
• Buses, motorcoaches, passenger vans, or other passenger-carrying vehicles
• Emergency Exits
• Electrical Cables and Systems in Engine and Battery Compartments,
• Seating
• HM/DG and Specification Cargo Tank Requirements, as applicable*

*HM/DG Required Inspection Items will only be inspected by certified HM/DG and cargo tank inspectors, as applicable.

Level II: Walk-Around Vehicle & Driver Inspection

The Level II walk-around vehicle and driver inspection is still relatively comprehensive, yet focuses on items accessible without getting under the vehicle. It includes all items in the Level I inspection except those under the vehicle.

Level III: Driver-Only Credential Inspection

The Level III inspection is an administrative inspection of a driver’s credentials and related documents. It includes the following items:

• Examination of Driver’s License
• Medical Examiner’s Certificate and Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) Certificate
• Driver’s Record of Duty Status
• Hours of Service
• Seat Belt
• Vehicle Inspection Report(s)
• Carrier Identification and Status

Special Inspections (Levels IV & V) Overview

Level IV and V inspections are special inspections. For Level IV, the inspection includes a one-time examination of a particular item. These examinations are usually made to support a study or verify or refute a suspected trend.

Level V is a vehicle-only inspection and “includes each of the vehicle inspection items specified under the North American Standard Inspection (Level I), without a driver present, conducted at any location,” as per the CVSA.

Key Focus Areas for 2025 Inspections

Each year, the CVSA focuses on two specific areas. One is related to driver compliance, while the second is related to critically important vehicle violations.

2025 focus areas include:

• Tires
• False Records of Duty Status

Tire Inspections

Tire failure is a hazard to all motorists. It causes significant delays on the road and is expensive for motor carriers to repair.

For the 2025 CVSA Roadcheck, these tire points will be a main focus:

• Low Tread Depth
• Audible Air Leaks
• Flat Tires
• Belt material or casing ply exposed in the tread or sidewall
• Tread or Sidewall Separation
• Sidewall Bulges
• Improper Repairs (like rubber-coated plugs in the sidewall)
• Items Lodged Between Dual Tires

Hours-of-Service Regulations & Documentation

Hours-of-service regulations limit driving hours and mandate rest breaks. The primary goal is to prevent truck drivers from operating vehicles while drowsy, a leading cause of accidents and mishaps on the road.

For the 2025 CVSA Roadcheck, these hours-of-service points will be a main focus:

• Electronic Logging Device Tampering (including driving while not logged in, disconnected devices, and improper edits)
• Ghost Drivers
• Improper Use of the Personal Conveyance Special Driving Category
• Improper Use of Other Exceptions (including adverse driving conditions)
• Recording Off-Duty Time While Performing Work

Maintaining Compliant Electronic Logs

Keeping your electronic logs compliant is about more than avoiding violations; it’s also about protecting your driving record and ensuring you stay on the road.

Follow these key tips for maintaining compliant electronic logs:

• Verify ELD Registration: Ensure your device is FMCSA-registered and on the approved list.
• Know How to Use Your ELD: Show inspectors how to display, transfer, and print your logs if requested.
• Log In and Out Properly: Always log into your ELD at the start and end of each shift.
• Update Status Changes: Switch duty status (driving, on-duty, off-duty, sleeper berth) in real-time — don’t wait until later.
• Keep Backup Supplies: Carry at least 8 days’ worth of blank paper logs in case of an ELD malfunction.
• Document ELD Malfunctions: Report malfunctions immediately and record required details if manual logging becomes necessary.
• Review Logs Daily: Double-check your logs for accuracy before ending your day to catch and correct any errors.
• Retain Supporting Documents: Keep supporting documents (fuel receipts, toll records, dispatch records) organized and accessible.

How to Prepare for CVSA Roadcheck 2025

Preparing for the 2025 CVSA Roadcheck is all about passing inspection and protecting your time, reputation, and ability to stay on the pavement. For many drivers and fleet managers, preparation starts weeks before the blitz. Taking small steps now can make a big difference when it’s time to pass through an inspection site.

Review the CVSA inspection checklists below to ensure you cover all your bases.

Must-Have Documentation Checklist

Drivers must present certain documents to inspectors immediately. Missing paperwork is one of the quickest ways to trigger a violation or delay. Here’s what you need to carry:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) and Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) Certificate, if required
• Vehicle Registration
• Proof of Insurance
• Record of Duty Status (RODS) via an ELD or approved paper logs (past 7 days)
• Annual Vehicle Inspection Report
• Daily Vehicle Inspection Reports (pre-trip and post-trip, if applicable)
• Cargo Documentation (Bill of Lading, hazardous material paperwork if hauling hazmat)
• Permit Documents for Oversized or Overweight Loads
• Emergency Instructions and Hazardous Materials Response Guide (if transporting hazardous materials)

Pre-Roadcheck Mechanical Inspection Steps

Mechanical issues are among the most common reasons trucks are flagged during the 2025 CVSA Roadcheck. Taking the time to perform a thorough pre-trip inspection is one of the smartest moves you can make.

Quick Mechanical Checks Before Hitting the Road

We recommend making these checks part of your daily routine during Roadcheck week and completing necessary repairs immediately before they cost you valuable time.

• Inspect Brake System: Hoses, lines, slack adjusters, and air pressure gauges.
• Check Tires: Tread depth, air pressure, sidewall condition, and matching across axles.
• Examine Lights: Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, clearance lights, and reflectors.
• Review Suspension: Springs, shocks, hangers, and U-bolts for cracks or wear.
• Check Steering System: Steering column, gearbox, hoses, and fluid levels.
• Look at Coupling Devices: Fifth wheel, kingpin, safety latch, and glad hands.
• Verify Emergency Equipment: Fire extinguisher, spare fuses, warning triangles.
• Confirm Cargo Securement: Straps, chains, and anchor points should be firmly fastened.
• Double-Check Fluid Levels: Engine oil, coolant, transmission, brake, and windshield washer fluid.

Common Violations & How to Avoid Them

During the 2025 CVSA Roadcheck, inspectors will zero in on the most common and preventable violations. Knowing what typically trips up drivers and taking steps to fix those issues before inspection day can save you time, money, and stress.

Let’s examine the common trouble spots and discuss strategies to avoid them during the Roadcheck blitz.

Frequent Brake Violations & Solutions

Brakes are the number one reason trucks get pulled out of service during inspections. Common brake violations include:

• Worn-out brake linings or pads.
• Brake hose leaks, cracks, or improper mounting.
• Out-of-adjustment brakes.
• Contaminated or improperly functioning air brake systems.

How to avoid brake violations:

• Conduct daily brake inspections.
• Check for air leaks by listening and using air pressure gauges.
• Inspect hoses for kinks, chafing, and wear.
• Make sure the slack adjusters are properly set.

Common Cargo Securement Mistakes

Improperly secured cargo is another big red flag during a CVSA inspection checklist. Common mistakes include:

• Insufficient number of tie-downs.
• Damaged or frayed tie-down straps or chains.
• Inadequate blocking or bracing of loads.
• Cargo shifting or loose items.

CVSA Roadcheck cargo securement tips include:

• Follow FMCSA cargo securement regulations for your load type.
• Inspect straps and chains before each trip.
• Use edge protectors to prevent strap wear.
• Double-check securement after driving a short distance.

Typical Hours-of-Service Errors

Hours-of-Service (HOS) mistakes are among the easiest to avoid, yet many drivers receive violations for these errors. Common mistakes include:

• Not having seven previous days of logs available.
• Incorrectly recorded duty statuses.
• Exceeding driving time limits.
• ELD malfunctions are not correctly documented.

How to ensure you’re in compliance:

• Review your logs daily for errors.
• Utilize your ELD effectively and update your duty status in real-time.
• Carry blank paper logs and malfunction instructions just in case.
• Understand your HOS limits based on your schedule and routes.

Consequences of Failing a CVSA Roadcheck Inspection

What happens if you fail the CVSA inspection 2025? This is a question we hear often. If you fail the CVSA inspection in 2025, you may receive multiple consequences. These can include immediate downtime, expensive repairs, lost revenue, and potential hits to your CSA score.

If something goes wrong, it’s important to know what happens next, what penalties you might face, and how quickly you can get back on the road.

Out-of-Service (OOS) Criteria Explained

An Out-of-Service (OOS) order temporarily removes your truck, trailer, or even you as a driver from service until you rectify noted violations. If you’re put OOS, you cannot move your truck, even to the next exit, until you take the proper steps to correct the errors.

Violations that Trigger Immediate OOS Orders

Here are examples of violations that will automatically get you parked:

• Brake out-of-adjustment violations on 20% or more of brakes.
• Tire tread depth below 2/32 inches on a steering axle.
• Missing, expired, or falsified medical certificates.
• No available Record of Duty Status or ELD records.
• Cargo not secured per FMCSA regulations.
• Serious frame or steering component damage.
• Detection of alcohol or controlled substances.

Penalties and Next Steps After Inspection Failure

Failing an inspection doesn’t just delay your trip; it can also:

• Increase your carrier’s CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) score.
• Lead to additional roadside inspections in the future.
• Result in steep fines, especially for HOS or cargo violations.
• Trigger deeper audits or investigations from enforcement agencies.

After a failure, you must immediately address the violation. Documentation showing repairs or compliance fixes must be submitted to the relevant agency, typically within 15 days.

How to Return to Service Quickly After an OOS Violation

If you do get an OOS order, acting fast is key to minimizing downtime:

• Fix the Violation Immediately. Roadside, if possible, or by calling a mobile repair service.
• Get Written Proof of Repair. This can be an invoice, a mechanic certification, or an inspector confirmation.
• Submit Required Documents. Notify the proper authority per inspection instructions.
• Double-check the Rest of Your Truck. Before driving again, ensure the rest of your big rig is in order to avoid back-to-back violations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Preparing for CVSA Roadcheck inspections is essential for a driver, owner-operator, or fleet manager. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the CVSA inspection checklist.

How Long Does a CVSA Inspection Typically Last?

A CVSA inspection typically takes between 30 minutes and 60 minutes to complete, depending on the level of inspection.

Can You Decline a CVSA Inspection?

No, you cannot decline a CVSA inspection, as it is required under federal law. Refusing to comply can lead to serious penalties, including:

• Fines
• Immediate OOS Orders
• Potential Arrest for Obstructing the Inspection

Are CVSA Inspections Mandatory for All Drivers?

Yes, CVSA inspections are mandatory for all commercial drivers. The FMCSA requires all commercial motor vehicles to be inspected at least once every 12 months.

Visit a LubeZone Truck Lube Center Near You Today

Passing the 2025 CVSA Roadcheck starts with smart preventative maintenance, and LubeZone is here to help. Our fast, no-appointment-needed service centers are built to keep your truck inspection-ready and your wheels turning.

Stop by a LubeZone Truck Lube Center today for the preventive care you need to stay safe, compliant, and timely on the road. Find a LubeZone location near you.

LubeZone

LubeZone is the fastest growing dedicated semi-truck service in the United States with locations in Texas, California, Oklahoma, North Carolina and Georgia. Our preventative maintenance solutions are designed to get the professional driver back on the road FAST.