FMCSA Advances with In-Motion Roadside Inspections Program

Introduction to In-Motion Roadside Inspections

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is currently developing the "Level VIII Inspection Program Operational Test," which will enable in-motion roadside inspections of commercial vehicles without direct interaction with a roadside inspector. This technology aims to efficiently identify higher-risk carriers for conventional inspections, given the rise in commercial vehicle traffic and limited number of inspection officers. It also addresses issues related to time-sensitive freight delays and increased greenhouse gas emissions due to idling during inspections.

Implementation and Testing

To assess the feasibility and potential impact of this program on a national scale, the FMCSA will conduct a multi-state operational test through at least May 2024. As part of the proposal made in September 2022, it was suggested that every commercial vehicle involved in interstate commerce should be fitted with an electronic identification technology. This would allow the vehicle to wirelessly communicate a unique ID when queried by safety personnel. A Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on this plan is expected later this year.

Source: CDL Life