Get Ready for the May 2025 International Roadcheck

Each year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) conducts the International Roadcheck, and this year’s dates are May 13–15, 2025. Over this three-day period, law enforcement personnel across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico will conduct inspections to ensure commercial drivers and vehicles comply with safety regulations.

This serves as a timely reminder to prepare now and ensure both you and your vehicle are ready for the road.

Why Pre- and Post-Trip Inspections Matter

Doing your inspections before and after each trip is one of the simplest ways to stay safe and avoid costly breakdowns. Here’s what to look for:

• Tires: Check tire pressure, tread depth, and look for visible wear or damage.
• Brakes: Inspect for proper function and look for any leaks or signs of wear.
• Fluid Levels: Don’t forget oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
• Lights and Signals: Make sure everything is working properly.

A post-trip inspection helps catch anything that went wrong during your drive—early detection can save you time, money, and help prevent roadside issues.

What to Expect During the International Roadcheck

According to CVSA, during the International Roadcheck, inspectors will conduct a typical Level 1 inspection. This type of inspection involves the 37-step procedure with an examination of driver operating requirements and vehicle mechanical fitness.

In addition, this year, inspectors are going to pay close attention and focus on two areas:

1. A driver’s Record of Duty Status (RODS)
2. The vehicle’s tires, described more below.

Driver Focus Area

• Hours-of-Service (HOS): HOS rules limit driving hours and require rest breaks to prevent fatigue-related crashes. Drivers must accurately log their driving activity; failures can lead to violations.
  
• Driver Inspection: They’ll check your seatbelt use, documentation, and for signs of impairment. If there are violations, drivers may be placed out of service.

Vehicle Focus Area

• Tire Maintenance Importance: Proper tire maintenance is crucial to avoid hazardous in-transit tire failures, which are costly and time-consuming to repair compared to regular upkeep. During International Roadcheck, inspectors will check tread depth, inflation, and look for damage such as leaks and cuts.
• Vehicle Inspection Overview: During Level I Inspections, various vehicle components, including brakes, cargo securement, tires, and lighting, are examined for compliance with regulations.

Extra Safety Tip: Use the Three-Points-of-Contact Rule

Getting in and out of your truck may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s one of the most common times for slips and falls. To prevent injury, always use three points of contact- this means two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand on the vehicle at all times.

It’s a simple habit that adds major protection, especially in slippery, icy, or uneven conditions.

Drive Safe, Stay Prepared

The International Roadcheck is a great opportunity to review your safety practices and stay inspection-ready. Prepping now can help avoid unnecessary delays and fines, and more importantly, it keeps everyone on the road safer. Let’s make safety the priority this month. Safe travels!