Each year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) carries out the International Roadcheck—a 72-hour inspection event across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. During this time, inspectors put extra focus on commercial motor vehicle safety, checking both drivers and equipment to ensure compliance with federal regulations.
Known as the largest targeted enforcement program of its kind, Roadcheck serves as both an enforcement initiative and an educational opportunity, reminding drivers and fleets to keep safety and compliance a top priority year-round.
Areas of Focus Each Year
While inspectors always check driver and vehicle compliance, CVSA highlights specific areas of focus annually.
For example:
- 2025 Focus Areas – Driver Hours-of-Service (HOS) Compliance and Tire Safety. Inspectors checked for accurate RODS (records of duty status) and closely examined tire tread, inflation, and overall condition.
- Recent Focus Areas – Cargo securement, brake systems, lighting, and driver qualifications have all been emphasized in past years.
Since the focus changes each year, truckers should stay informed by checking the official CVSA announcement in advance of the Roadcheck.
What to Expect During Inspections
The most common inspection during Roadcheck is the Level I inspection, a comprehensive review of both driver qualifications and vehicle condition. Inspectors may review:
- Driver Documentation – CDL, medical examiner’s certificate, RODS, and drug/alcohol clearinghouse status.
- Vehicle Condition – brake system, cargo securement, coupling devices, fuel system, lights, steering, suspension, tires, and more.
- Vehicles that pass without critical violations may earn a CVSA decal, valid for three months.
- Vehicles with out-of-service violations cannot continue operating until the issues are fixed.
Tips for U.S. Truckers to Prepare
Preparation goes a long way toward smooth inspections. Here are the best practices to follow:
- Stay Current on HOS Regulations – review your RODS regularly for accuracy and compliance.
- Check Your Tires – monitor inflation, tread depth, and overall condition (a major focus in 2025).
- Organize Your Documentation – keep your CDL, medical certification, and records easily accessible.
- Conduct Thorough Pre-Trip Inspections – identify and address issues before they become violations.
- Maintain Cargo Securement Equipment – make sure straps, chains, and binders meet WSTDA and NACM standards.
Get Ready with the Right Equipment
Avoid unexpected downtime by ensuring your equipment meets safety standards before inspections. From tie-down straps to chains and binders, investing in quality gear helps prevent violations and keeps you rolling. At Verduyn Tarps, we’re here to help you get Roadcheck-ready with expert advice and reliable gear, so you can focus on driving with confidence.
Why the Roadcheck Matters
The International Roadcheck isn’t just about enforcement—it’s about safety. By identifying violations and encouraging compliance, CVSA helps make roadways safer for everyone. The data collected during Roadcheck also influences future safety programs and regulations.
For truckers, Roadcheck is more than an inspection—it’s an opportunity to show commitment to professionalism, safety, and compliance.
Stay Informed
To learn about this year’s focus areas and updates, visit the CVSA International Roadcheck page.
From all of us here at Verduyn Tarps: stay safe, stay compliant, and keep on trucking.
