1Kompliance
All filing guides

Annual periodic DOT vehicle inspection (49 CFR 396.17)

Have each vehicle pass an annual DOT periodic inspection and keep the report on file.

Filed with
A qualified inspector
Cost
~$50–150 per vehicle
Time
~1 hour

What you'll need

  • The vehicle
  • A qualified inspector or inspection station

Step by step

  1. 1

    Find a qualified inspector

    Many shops — and some CDL holders — qualify.

  2. 2

    Pass the periodic inspection

    Covers brakes, steering, lighting, tires, and more.

  3. 3

    Keep the report and decal

    Retain the inspection report for 14 months.

Worth knowing

  • A clean roadside CVSA inspection can substitute for the annual one.
Official source: 49 CFR 396.17

Fact-checked June 2026. Fees, screens, and dates change — always reconfirm at the official source at filing time.

Not legal advice and not FMCSA or DOT guidance; verify with FMCSA or a licensed professional.

Never track this deadline by hand again

1Kompliance computes which filings apply to you and reminds you before each one. Free and unlimited.

Get started free