FMCSA Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection Requirements 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which document must accompany a CMV that has passed its annual periodic inspection?
- A DOT registration certificate
- An inspection report or decal showing the inspection date (Correct answer)
- A state safety certificate
- A carrier's insurance form
Correct answer: An inspection report or decal showing the inspection date
An inspection report or a decal must be kept on the vehicle as evidence it passed its most recent annual periodic inspection.
Question 2: What is the maximum allowable brake lining thickness for a drum brake before it is considered defective?
- Lining worn to the shoe
- Less than 1/4 inch at the thinnest point (Correct answer)
- Any visible wear
- Less than 1/8 inch at the thinnest point
Correct answer: Less than 1/4 inch at the thinnest point
Brake lining worn to less than 1/4 inch at the thinnest point is an out-of-service criterion under FMCSA rules.
Question 3: Under FMCSA rules, a DVIR that shows no defects must be signed by:
- The driver only (Correct answer)
- The carrier only
- Neither — no defects means no signature needed
- A certified mechanic
Correct answer: The driver only
Even when no defects are found, the driver must sign the DVIR to certify the vehicle was inspected and found to be in satisfactory condition.
Question 4: What is the FMCSA-required minimum tire pressure for CMV tires?
- There is no federal minimum — manufacturer spec applies (Correct answer)
- 80 psi for all tires
- 60 psi for all tires
- Whatever is stamped on the sidewall
Correct answer: There is no federal minimum — manufacturer spec applies
FMCSA does not set a specific minimum psi; tires must be inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure per 49 CFR 393.75.
Question 5: Which lighting defect would result in an out-of-service order for a CMV?
- One non-required interior light out
- Required headlamp inoperative (Correct answer)
- Cargo light not working
- License plate light flickering
Correct answer: Required headlamp inoperative
An inoperative required headlamp is a Federal Out-of-Service criterion because it directly compromises safety.
Question 6: How many days does a motor carrier have to correct a defect reported on a DVIR before operating the vehicle?
- The defect must be repaired before the vehicle is operated again (Correct answer)
- Within 24 hours
- Within 48 hours
- Within 7 business days
Correct answer: The defect must be repaired before the vehicle is operated again
A carrier must repair or certify the defect does not affect safety before the vehicle may return to service.
FMCSA Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection Requirements 2
Which document must accompany a CMV that has passed its annual periodic inspection?