This segment is for passing your DOT Audits, Courtney will be interviewing Johnny 3000 from MMM-Express in helping your pass your first DOT Audit. Feels like you drew the shortest straw. You must go through a DOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) audit process. Don't panic! Yes, DOT audits cause stress, anxiety, and a lot of data retrieval. Also, they take time. They can sap resources, hurt your relationships, and even put you out of business. But there are things you can do to make an audit less painful.  

The Complete DOT Audit Checklist 

The following DOT audit checklist will help make sure you pass any DOT audit, especially the all-encompassing NESA. Auditors will request information organized into three general categories. Make sure you address each item, as any noncompliance can trigger an audit failure. The future solvency of your business depends on it. In fact, you should also review the official audit requirements, resources, and sample forms on the FMCSA website. 

Drivers Vehicles Carrier- or Programmatic-Related Documents Now that you know the three general categories, let's examine each one in detail. Drivers What does the auditor need to know about your drivers? 

Have this information ready: 

Drivers List: 

For each driver, you must provide the name, date of birth, license number, license state, and date of hire. 

Driver's Licenses: 

All drivers of commercial motor vehicle (CMVs) must have an active and compliant commercial driver's license (CDL) or operator’s license (with all proper endorsements). Any driver exemptions also must be noted. Records of Duty (ROD) and Supporting Documentation: This encompasses your hours of service (HOS) tracking. It also ties in directly to the electronic logging device (ELD) requirement. Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) for Each Driver: You must request each driver’s MVR every 12 months and keep the record for three years. Certificate of Violations: This document must list all moving violations accrued for each driver in the previous 12 months. Driver's Safety Performance History: You must either produce records for the previous three years or show a good-faith effort if a driver was at another employer. Medical Certificate: Carriers must provide documentation that every driver passed a physical given by a certified medical examiner. Drivers need to pass a physical at least every two years. Any waivers a driver has been granted (such as for diabetes or a limb prosthetic) must also be included in their file. Application for Employment: This document speaks to the background and character of a driver. It includes accident history, work history, and reasons for leaving past employers. Make note of the required information. Road Test and Entry Level Driver Training Documents: This document proves a driver passed a driving skills evaluation. Let's move on to what your auditor needs to know about your vehicles. Vehicles