Every year, commercial trucks across North America undergo one of the largest inspection initiatives in the transportation industry: DOT Blitz Week, also known as the CVSA International Roadcheck.

In 2026, DOT Blitz Week will take place May 12 – May 14, when inspectors across the United States, Canada, and Mexico conduct tens of thousands of roadside inspections on commercial vehicles and drivers.

The purpose of the event is improving roadway safety by identifying mechanical issues and compliance violations that could create risks for drivers and the public.

Freight agents, carriers, and shippers should all be aware of the potential impacts of these inspections.

You can learn more about the 2026 inspection focus from the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance here.

What Is an Out-of-Service Violation?

During DOT Blitz Week, inspectors perform detailed safety inspections that evaluate both the vehicle and the driver.

If inspectors find violations that create safety concerns, the truck or driver may be placed out of service.

This means the vehicle or driver cannot continue operating until the issue is corrected.

For freight operations, this can result in:

• Shipment delays
• Missed pickup windows
• Reduced freight capacity
• Disruptions across supply chains

Because of this, understanding the most common DOT Blitz violations can help freight agents anticipate potential disruptions.

The Most Common DOT Blitz Week Vehicle Violations

During previous CVSA Roadcheck inspections, several vehicle-related violations consistently appear at the top of the list.

Brake System Violations

Brake-related violations are one of the most common reasons trucks are placed out of service during DOT Blitz Week.

Issues may include worn brake pads, malfunctioning components, or improperly adjusted braking systems.

Because brakes are critical for vehicle safety, inspectors examine them closely during roadside inspections.

Tire Condition Problems

Tires are another frequent source of DOT Blitz violations.

Inspectors look for problems such as:

• Bald or excessively worn tires
• Improper inflation
• Visible damage or tread separation

Poor tire condition can increase the risk of blowouts and accidents, which is why tire inspections are heavily emphasized during CVSA Roadcheck.

Lighting and Reflector Violations

Lighting issues are also commonly discovered during DOT inspections.

These violations may include:

• Broken headlights or brake lights
• Malfunctioning turn signals
• Missing reflective tape or markers

Proper lighting is essential for visibility and communication between vehicles on the road.

Cargo Securement Issues

Improperly secured cargo is another violation that inspectors frequently encounter.

Loose or unstable cargo can shift during transport, creating dangerous driving conditions or causing freight to fall from trailers.

Inspectors check load securement methods carefully to ensure freight is safely transported.

The Most Common Driver Violations

While vehicle issues are often the focus of inspections, drivers themselves are also subject to compliance checks.

Hours-of-Service Violations

One of the most common driver violations during DOT Blitz Week involves hours-of-service compliance.

Inspectors review electronic logging devices (ELDs) and driver records to ensure drivers are following federal regulations regarding driving hours and rest periods.

Violations may occur if drivers exceed their allowable driving time or fail to properly log their hours.

Licensing and Qualification Issues

Inspectors also verify that drivers possess valid commercial driver’s licenses and meet qualification requirements.

Problems such as expired licenses or missing documentation can result in drivers being placed out of service.

Missing Medical Certifications

Commercial drivers must maintain valid medical certifications confirming they are physically able to operate commercial vehicles.

If documentation is missing or expired, inspectors may remove drivers from service until the issue is resolved.

Why DOT Blitz Violations Matter for Freight Agents

Although DOT Blitz Week inspections primarily target carriers, freight agents can still feel the ripple effects.

When trucks are placed out of service, capacity immediately tightens across the market.

This can lead to:

• Delayed shipments
• Higher spot market rates
• Carrier load rejections
• Delivery timeline disruptions

Freight agents who understand these risks can proactively communicate with customers and plan accordingly.

Why Reliable Carriers Matter During DOT Blitz Week

Working with carriers who maintain well-maintained equipment and strong compliance practices is especially important during DOT Blitz Week.

Carriers with solid safety programs are more likely to pass inspections quickly and remain on the road during enforcement periods.

Freight agents who build relationships with reliable carriers often experience fewer disruptions during inspection events.

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DOT Blitz Week plays an important role in improving safety across the trucking industry.

However, the inspections can also temporarily affect truck availability and freight movement.

By understanding the most common DOT Blitz violations, freight agents can better anticipate potential disruptions and help customers plan shipments more effectively.

Preparation, communication, and strong carrier relationships are key to navigating inspection week successfully.

Frequently Asked Questions: DOT Blitz Violations