2026 International Roadcheck: Focus Areas on Cargo Securement and ELD Tampering
We’ll do a quick review of what this blitz involves, and share some keys to improving your results.
May 12–14, 2026 is International Roadcheck
CVSA International Roadcheck is scheduled for May 12–14, 2026. This annual event is a high-visibility, high-volume inspection initiative focused on commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and drivers across North America.
For 2026, CVSA’s special emphasis areas are:
INFINITI offers DOT training videos to prepare for these topics and more. Read on for more information about this year’s Roadcheck Blitz, or request free access to INFINITI to prepare your fleet.
🚛 Why These Focus Areas Matter
Cargo Securement: Keep the Load Where It Belongs
Improper cargo securement is a serious safety risk. If a load shifts or comes loose, cargo can spill, fall, blow off, or become dislodged, creating roadway hazards and increasing crash risk.
During Roadcheck, inspectors will pay close attention to whether cargo is properly contained, immobilized, and secured.
Here are key cargo securement reminders to prep your fleet:
✅ Brace and block cargo properly so it cannot leak, spill, blow off, fall, become dislodged, or shift enough to affect balance, stability, or maneuverability.
✅ Flatbed loads: position cargo against a front-end structure, or use additional tie-downs to prevent forward movement.
✅ Secure dunnage and equipment (tarps, blocks, chains, tie-downs, spare tires, brooms, forklifts, pallet jacks, winches, ratchets and more).
✅ Inspect tie-downs for wear and damage. CVSA Out-of-Service Criteria includes tie-down defect tables covering chain, wire rope, cordage, synthetic webbing, steel strapping, fittings/attachments, and anchor points.
More info: https://cvsa.org/programs/international-roadcheck/
Get Your International Roadcheck Flyer
Download a Copy of the CVSA Cheat Sheet
Learn How INFINITI Fleet Safety Training Make Safety Documentation Easy
📌 ELD Tampering, Falsification or Manipulation: Logs Must Match Reality
Inspectors will review records of duty status as usual, with special attention on ELD tampering, falsification, or manipulation.
Inaccurate entries can happen when drivers misunderstand rules and exemptions, but manipulated records may be used to conceal hours-of-service violations. CVSA notes that some records are manipulated to hide driving time without showing that the record was edited as required.
What this means for fleets and drivers:
- Make sure drivers understand HOS rules and how exemptions apply.
- Ensure edits are compliant, transparent, and properly annotated when required.
- Fix log issues immediately, not days later.
- Watch for patterns that can look like manipulation, even if unintentional.
More info: https://cvsa.org/programs/international-roadcheck/
🔍 ELD Tampering, Falsification or Manipulation: Logs Must Match Reality
Inspectors will review records of duty status as usual, with special attention on ELD tampering, falsification, or manipulation.
Inaccurate entries can happen when drivers misunderstand rules and exemptions, but manipulated records may be used to conceal hours-of-service violations. CVSA notes that some records are manipulated to hide driving time without showing that the record was edited as required.
What this means for fleets and drivers:
- Make sure drivers understand HOS rules and how exemptions apply.
- Ensure edits are compliant, transparent, and properly annotated when required.
- Fix log issues immediately, not days later.
- Watch for patterns that can look like manipulation, even if unintentional.
More info: https://cvsa.org/programs/international-roadcheck/
📢 Safety Starts with You!
Whether you’re a fleet manager, owner-operator, or company driver, strong daily habits reduce downtime, improve inspection outcomes, and help keep roads safer. Roadcheck is three days, but the standard is every day.
🚛 Stay safe and keep on trucking! 🚛
Learn From Previous Years’ Results
2025 International Roadcheck Results Summary
The 2025 International Roadcheck, held May 13–15 across North America, included:
👉 56,178 inspections of commercial vehicles and drivers
This was a significant increase from 2024 and gives a clearer picture of current fleet compliance trends.
Overall Compliance
81.6% of vehicles passed without out-of-service violations
94.1% of drivers passed without out-of-service violations
However:
10,148 vehicles were placed out of service
3,342 drivers were placed out of service
Resulting in:
18.1% vehicle out-of-service rate
5.9% driver out-of-service rate
2025 Focus Areas
In 2025, inspectors paid special attention to:
- Tires
- False Records of Duty Status (RODS)
Key findings:
- 2,899 tire-related violations were cited
- Tire violations made up 21.4% of all vehicle out-of-service violations
- False log violations accounted for 10% of driver out-of-service violations
Top Vehicle Out-of-Service Issues
Inspectors most commonly cited:
- Brake system violations
- Tires
- Lighting issues
- Cargo securement problems
Brake-related violations accounted for 41.1% of total vehicle out-of-service violations.
Top Driver Out-of-Service Issues
The most common driver violations were:
- Hours-of-Service violations
- Operating without a CDL
- No medical certificate
- False logs / RODS
Hours-of-Service violations remained the leading cause of driver removals.
What Changed from 2024?
Compared to 2024:
- Inspections increased by over 7,000
- Vehicle compliance improved
- Driver out-of-service rates increased slightly
What This Means
Even with improved vehicle compliance, thousands of vehicles and drivers were still removed from service due to preventable issues such as:
- Tire defects
- Brake violations
- Log falsification
These trends reinforce the importance of year-round maintenance, accurate logging practices, and ongoing driver training.
While 10,148 vehicles were placed out of service overall during Roadcheck, CVSA reports that 10,064 of those resulted from Level I, II, and V inspections, which involve direct vehicle evaluations and account for the majority of out-of-service determinations.
Learn from previous years’ mistakes.
International Roadcheck always examines critical safety items, including:
- Steering
- Suspension
- Brakes
- Tires, wheels, rims, and hubs
- Cargo securement
- Coupling devices
- Exhaust and fuel systems
- Lights
- Windshield wipers
In a sense, an annual Roadcheck is actually perennial. The same critical items crop up year after year. To the ever-ready, there’s nothing to panic over, because you’re putting superior drivers and well-maintained trucks on the road, 24/7.
Prepare so you don’t have to prepare
Every day, 365 days a year, is your chance to prepare for International Roadcheck and other inspections throughout the year. Why? Because inspections help keep the roads safer and help make you a better company, accountable to high standards. Stay accountable to the highest standards — your own — be ever-ready for a 37-point inspection and you won’t be sweating inspection weeks.
If you do online safety training, this is a great opportunity to send out an assignment to make sure all your drivers are pre-tripping properly so they don’t get a violation when they get inspected on the road. The assignment both reminds them of what’s ahead and gets them ready for it. Truck driver safety training LMS allows you to keep your drivers on a continual rotation of short but powerful training modules. It keeps training frequent and consistent.
INFINITI Workforce Solutions exists to build and empower great trucking fleets through online training. Our clients’ results are reflected in safer driving records, better insurance rates, overall cost management, and more. Read client testimonials or request a free demo today.
FAQs
What is International Roadcheck?
International Roadcheck is an annual three-day inspection initiative conducted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) across North America. During this period, enforcement officials perform high-volume, high-visibility inspections of commercial motor vehicles and drivers. The 2026 International Roadcheck will take place from May 13-15, focusing specifically on tire maintenance and false records of duty status (RODS). This comprehensive safety program helps ensure compliance with regulations, identifies potential safety violations, and promotes road safety through standardized inspection procedures.
What are the focus areas for International Roadcheck 2026?
The 2026 International Roadcheck will concentrate on two critical areas: tire maintenance and false records of duty status (RODS). These focus areas were chosen due to their significant impact on road safety. Inspectors will pay special attention to tire-related issues such as tread depth, air leaks, sidewall damage, and improper repairs. Additionally, they will scrutinize drivers’ logs for accurate recording of duty status, proper use of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs), and compliance with hours-of-service regulations to prevent fatigue-related incidents.
What tire issues will inspectors look for during International Roadcheck?
During International Roadcheck, inspectors will conduct thorough examinations of commercial vehicle tires, checking for multiple potential issues. They will assess low tread depth, identify audible air leaks, inspect for flat or underinflated tires, and look for exposed belt material or casing ply. Inspectors will also examine tires for tread or sidewall separation, bulges in the sidewall that might indicate internal damage, improper repairs such as rubber-coated plugs, and objects lodged between dual tires. Any of these issues could result in a vehicle being placed out of service.
How does International Roadcheck address false RODS?
International Roadcheck inspectors will carefully examine drivers’ records of duty status (RODS) for various violations. They will look for signs of ELD tampering, such as unauthorized system bypasses or improper edits. Inspectors will also check for the use of “ghost drivers,” misuse of personal conveyance status, improper application of exceptions like adverse driving conditions, and falsification of off-duty time while actually working. These thorough examinations help ensure compliance with hours-of-service regulations and maintain road safety standards.
What were the results of the 2024 International Roadcheck?
The 2024 International Roadcheck yielded significant findings across North America. Officials conducted 48,761 inspections, with 77% of vehicles and 95.2% of drivers passing without out-of-service violations. However, inspectors identified 13,567 vehicle and 2,714 driver out-of-service violations, resulting in 9,345 vehicles and 2,290 drivers being placed out of service. The most common vehicle violation was defective service brakes (25%), while hours-of-service violations led driver-related issues at 32.1% of all driver out-of-service violations.
How can fleets prepare for International Roadcheck?
Preparation for International Roadcheck should include comprehensive vehicle maintenance and driver training. Fleets should conduct thorough tire inspections and maintenance, ensure all ELDs are functioning correctly, and verify that drivers’ logs are accurate and up-to-date. Training sessions should focus on proper RODS management to prevent unintentional violations. Fleet managers should also address any existing tire wear or repair issues before the inspection period. Regular maintenance checks and ongoing safety training throughout the year help ensure readiness for the inspection blitz.
What are the consequences of violations during International Roadcheck?
Violations discovered during International Roadcheck can result in serious consequences for both drivers and fleets. Tire-related violations or false RODS can lead to vehicles or drivers being placed out of service immediately. This results in costly delays, potential fines, and negative impacts on safety scores. Additionally, violations can affect insurance rates, customer relationships, and overall fleet reputation. Multiple or severe violations might trigger additional investigations or audits by regulatory authorities, potentially leading to more substantial penalties.
What items are always checked during International Roadcheck?
International Roadcheck consistently examines several critical safety components regardless of the year’s special focus areas. These include steering systems, suspension, brakes, tires, wheels, rims, and hubs, cargo securement, coupling devices, exhaust and fuel systems, lights, and windshield wipers. Each inspection follows a standardized procedure to ensure thoroughness and consistency. These comprehensive inspections help identify potential safety hazards and ensure vehicles meet all required safety standards before continuing operation on public roads.
How does International Roadcheck impact the trucking industry?
International Roadcheck significantly impacts the trucking industry by promoting safety awareness and compliance. The annual event serves as a reminder for fleets to maintain high safety standards year-round. It helps identify common compliance issues, allowing the industry to address systemic problems. The initiative also provides valuable data about safety trends, which influences future regulations and training requirements. Additionally, successful inspections during International Roadcheck can positively impact a company’s safety rating and insurance premiums.
What role do ELDs play in International Roadcheck?
Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) play a crucial role during International Roadcheck by providing verifiable records of drivers’ hours of service. Inspectors will examine ELD data for accuracy, proper functioning, and any signs of tampering or manipulation. They’ll verify that drivers are correctly logged into their devices, making appropriate status changes, and following hours-of-service regulations. ELDs help ensure compliance with federal regulations and provide a reliable means of tracking driver activities and rest periods.
How can drivers maintain proper tire safety year-round?
Drivers should implement a comprehensive tire maintenance program that includes daily pre-trip inspections and regular maintenance checks. This involves monitoring tire pressure, checking tread depth, inspecting for visible damage or wear patterns, and ensuring proper alignment. Drivers should also maintain accurate records of tire maintenance, rotations, and replacements. Understanding proper tire inflation requirements, load ratings, and wear indicators helps prevent tire-related violations during International Roadcheck and ensures safer operation throughout the year.
What training should fleets provide before International Roadcheck?
Fleets should provide comprehensive training that covers both focus areas and standard inspection points for International Roadcheck. This includes detailed instruction on proper pre-trip inspection procedures, tire maintenance protocols, and accurate RODS management. Training should also cover ELD operation, hours-of-service regulations, and proper documentation procedures. Using online safety training platforms can help ensure all drivers receive consistent, up-to-date information and remain prepared for inspections throughout the year.
How does International Roadcheck improve road safety?
International Roadcheck improves road safety by ensuring commercial vehicles and drivers meet essential safety standards. The initiative removes unsafe vehicles and unqualified drivers from roadways, reducing accident risks. It promotes compliance with safety regulations through increased awareness and enforcement. The program also generates valuable data about safety trends, helping regulatory agencies and fleets identify areas needing improvement. This comprehensive approach to safety benefits all road users, from commercial drivers to private motorists.
What documentation should drivers have ready for International Roadcheck?
Drivers should have all required documentation readily available during International Roadcheck inspections. This includes a valid commercial driver’s license, medical certificate, record of duty status, vehicle registration, insurance documentation, and any relevant permits. ELD documentation, including instruction manuals and malfunction procedures, should also be accessible. Having organized, up-to-date paperwork helps expedite the inspection process and demonstrates professional commitment to compliance and safety standards.
How do weather conditions affect International Roadcheck inspections?
Weather conditions can significantly impact International Roadcheck inspections, but inspections continue regardless of weather. Adverse weather might affect certain aspects of vehicle inspections, particularly tire examinations. Inspectors take weather conditions into account when evaluating things like brake performance and lighting systems. Drivers should ensure their vehicles are prepared for various weather conditions and understand how weather-related exceptions apply to hours-of-service regulations during the inspection period.
What resources are available to help prepare for International Roadcheck?
Numerous resources are available to help fleets and drivers prepare for International Roadcheck. These include CVSA inspection checklists, online safety training programs, and industry guidance documents. Professional organizations offer webinars and workshops focusing on inspection preparation. Fleet management systems and ELD providers often provide compliance tools and training materials. Additionally, many companies offer specialized training programs designed to help drivers and fleets maintain compliance with all safety regulations throughout the year.
How to prepare for DOT inspection week 2026
To prepare for the DOT inspection week 2026 (2026 International Roadcheck)
- Ensure all tires are properly inflated, have adequate tread depth, and show no signs of damage
- Verify your ELD is functioning correctly and logs are accurate and up to date
- Complete thorough pre-trip inspections with special attention to the focus areas
- Maintain proper documentation including license, medical certificate, and hours-of-service records
- Address any maintenance issues before hitting the road
