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CVSA Roadcheck 2025: Can Your Tires and Record of Duty Status (RODS) Pass Inspection?

A woman holds a clipboard and checks the tire of a semi-truck.

It’s time to get your truck — and your paperwork — in order. The Commercial Motor Vehicle Association’s (CVSA) International Roadcheck is set for May 13 – 15, 2025.

During the 72-hour blitz, law enforcement agencies will inspect CMVs at weigh stations, inspection stations, temporary sites and mobile patrols. Pass inspection and receive a CVSA decal, valid for up to three months. Fail inspection and you or your rig could be placed out of service (OOS).

Last year, 23% of vehicles and 4.8% of drivers were placed out of service during the Roadcheck. The top OOS violations were defective service brakes on vehicles and Hours of Service errors among drivers. This year, CVSA inspectors will focus on these two areas:

1. Tire troubles

Inspectors will look for any signs of wear, including:

  • Low tread depth
  • Audible air leaks
  • Flat tires
  • Damages to the sidewall
  • Tread or sidewall separation
  • Items lodged between dual tires
  • Belt material or casing ply exposed in the tread or sidewall
  • Improper repairs, such as rubber-coated plugs in the sidewall

To avoid an OOS vehicle violation, keep your tires well-maintained, inspect them before each trip, and report any defects to your fleet manager immediately so they can be repaired.

2. False record of duty status (RODS)

Keep your RODS accurate and updated. Inspectors will review:

  • Electronic Logging Device (ELD) tampering (driving while not logged in, disconnected devices, improper edits)
  • Ghost drivers (claiming a co-driver when there isn’t one)
  • Improper use of the personal conveyance special driving category
  • Improper use of other exceptions, including adverse driving conditions
  • Recording off-duty time while working for a motor carrier or non-motor carrier

Inspectors may also request a RODS transfer. Follow your ELD’s instructions to complete the transfer. If you’re unsure how to do this, ask your fleet manager for help.

And that’s not all

During Roadcheck, most inspectors will complete a full Level I inspection. Improve your odds of passing by:

  • Conducting thorough pre- and post-trip inspections. Pay special attention to braking systems.
  • Checking for burnt-out or malfunctioning bulbs. Lights are a top OOS violation.
  • Securing your cargo properly.
  • Keeping your documents handy, including your CMV license and medical card.
  • Avoiding banned substances. Inspectors in the U.S. will conduct a query of the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse.

Remember, always wear your seatbelt and greet your inspector with a smile. A positive attitude often leads to a smoother inspection.

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