CVSA Inspection Levels I–VIII
A plain-English breakdown of the eight CVSA North American Standard inspection levels — what each covers, how long it takes, and what inspectors look for.
CVSA defines eight levels of North American Standard inspections. The level sets how much of the driver and vehicle the inspector examines. Knowing the levels helps drivers know what to expect and what to have ready.
| Level | Name | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| I | North American Standard Inspection | The most thorough. Covers driver documents (CDL, medical card, logs, HOS) plus a full vehicle inspection, including brakes from underneath, coupling, exhaust, frame, fuel system, lighting, securement, steering, suspension, tires, wheels, and HazMat if applicable. |
| II | Walk-Around Driver/Vehicle Inspection | The same items as Level I, but only what can be checked without going under the vehicle. |
| III | Driver-Only Inspection | Credentials and documents only: CDL, medical certificate, RODS/ELD, HOS, seat belt, DVIR, and HazMat endorsements. |
| IV | Special Inspection | A one-time check of a single item, usually for a study or to verify a trend. |
| V | Vehicle-Only Inspection | A Level I vehicle inspection done without the driver present, often at a carrier's terminal. |
| VI | Enhanced NAS Inspection for Radioactive Shipments | For select radiological shipments. Includes enhanced procedures and the CVSA decal requirement. |
| VII | Jurisdictional Mandated Inspection | An inspection required by a state or province that doesn't fit Levels I–VI, such as school bus or limo inspections. |
| VIII | Electronic Inspection | Done wirelessly while the vehicle is moving, with no direct contact. Data such as registration, credentials, and HOS are transmitted electronically. |
The CVSA decal
A vehicle that passes a Level I or Level V inspection with no critical violations may receive a CVSA decal. The decal is valid for up to three months. Inspectors generally won't re-inspect a decaled vehicle during that time unless they see an obvious defect.
How long does an inspection take?
A Level I inspection usually takes 30–60 minutes. A Level III often takes 15 minutes or less. Driving away clean depends on what you did before you rolled out of the yard.
Getting ready for any level
- Keep the CDL, medical card, registration, cab card, insurance, and ELD instruction sheet together.
- Make sure your ELD can transfer data, and carry blank paper logs for 8 days in case it fails.
- Carry your last DVIR and your annual inspection documentation.
- Fix defects found on your pre-trip before you leave. Use DotCheck to confirm whether a defect is likely an OOS condition.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the most common CVSA inspection level?
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Level I and Level III inspections are among the most frequently performed, with Level I being the most comprehensive.
How long is a CVSA decal good for?
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A CVSA decal is valid for up to three consecutive months after a vehicle passes a Level I or Level V inspection without critical violations.
Do inspectors go under the truck on a Level II?
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No. A Level II walk-around inspection covers only the items that can be inspected without getting under the vehicle.
This guide is for general information and pre-inspection preparation only. It is not legal advice. Always check the current text of 49 CFR at ecfr.gov and the current CVSA OOS Criteria.