FMCSA removes mandatory return of inspection reports unless state asks for them
/ 1 min read
Table of Contents
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has finalized a rule that changes how commercial trucking companies handle roadside inspection forms. Previously, carriers were required to sign and send the completed report back to the state agency that performed the inspection. Under the new rule, carriers only need to return the form if the specific state agency requests it.
Why it matters: This is a minor administrative adjustment aimed at reducing unnecessary paperwork for trucking companies operating in states that do not actually need the physical return of the inspection form. It does not change safety standards or inspection procedures, only the recordkeeping requirement for completed reports.
Who it affects
- Motor carriers and intermodal equipment providers subject to FMCSA regulations
This final rule was issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration within the Department of Transportation; check the original document at regulations.gov/docket/FMCSA-2025-0116 for full regulatory text.
Agency: Transportation Department, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
Source: Federal Register — read the official document