This memo serves as an important reminder that the 2026 CVSA International Road Check will take place May 12–14, 2026. During this 72‑hour enforcement initiative, commercial motor vehicle inspectors across North America will conduct intensive inspections focused on driver compliance, vehicle maintenance, and cargo securement.
Overview of the Road Check Process
Throughout the event, inspectors at weigh stations, roadside locations, and temporary inspection sites will primarily conduct North American Standard Level I Inspections, a 37-step procedure that includes two major parts – an examination of the driver’s operating requirements and an assessment of the vehicle’s mechanical fitness. All Inspection Levels – CVSA – Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance
  • Driver Operating Requirements:  Verification of CDL and endorsements, medical certification, RODS/ELD compliance, seat belt usage, Skill Performance Evaluation (if applicable), and Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse status (U.S.). Inspectors will also assess for signs of drug or alcohol impairment.
  • Vehicle Maintenance:  Inspection of brake systems, cargo securement, coupling devices, driveline components, driver’s seat, fuel and exhaust systems, frames, lighting, steering, suspension, tires, wheels, rims, hubs, and windshield wipers. Passenger‑carrying CMVs will also have emergency exits, seating, and electrical systems inspected.
Drivers or vehicles found with out‑of‑service violations will be restricted from operation until all issues are corrected.
Vehicles that pass a Level I inspection without any critical violations may receive a CVSA decal, valid for up to three months.
2026 Focus Areas
Each year, CVSA highlights specific categories to improve awareness and compliance. For 2026, the emphasis areas are:
1. Driver Focus: ELD Tampering, Falsification, or Manipulation
Inspectors will closely review RODS for:
  • False or manipulated entries
  • Missing edits or improper annotations
  • Non-Certified Logs for the previous 7 days
  • Form and Manner
  • Signs of concealed driving time
  • ELD malfunctions or misuse
In 2025, falsification of RODS was the second most‑cited driver violation (58,382 violations; most were illegal use of PC and Adverse driving). Five of the top ten driver violations were related to HOS or ELDs, underscoring the importance of accurate logging.
2. Vehicle Focus: Cargo Securement
Improper or inadequate securement remains a major safety concern. In 2025:
  • 18,108 violations were issued for cargo not secured to prevent leaking/spilling/blowing/falling
  • 16,054 violations were issued for unsecured vehicle components or dunnage
Cargo securement issues can lead to crashes, roadway hazards, and out‑of‑service orders.
Action Items for All Carriers
To prepare for the Road check, carriers should:
  • Review driver HOS logs and ensure all drivers understand ELD requirements
  • Conduct internal audits for potential ELD manipulation or improper edits
  • Reinforce proper cargo securement procedures and verify securement equipment is in good condition
  • Ensure all DVIRs are completed daily and defects are repaired promptly
  • Confirm all required documents are in each vehicle (CDL, medical card, registration, insurance, IFTA, ELD instructions, etc.)
  • Perform thorough pre‑trip and post‑trip inspections
  • Remind drivers to maintain professionalism and follow all inspection protocols
Why This Matters
Violations discovered during the Blitz can result in:
  • Out‑of‑service orders
  • CSA score impacts
  • Fines and enforcement actions
  • Delays in freight movement
  • Increased audit exposure
Proactive preparation protects your drivers, your equipment, and your safety rating.