The BIT program (Basic Inspection of Terminals) was updated in 2016 to move from a time-based inspection system to a performance-based selection system. The terminals selected for inspection are based on the California Performance Safety Score (CPSS) which is a derived from a combination of FMCSA, SMS, and BASIC percentiles. Any carrier with a score above the Federal alert level will be selected for inspection. In addition, you can expect terminals that have never been inspected or those from which hazardous materials are transported will be prioritized above others.
What Records are Required for a BIT Inspection
Driver Records:
- DMV Driving Record – required for new drivers until a Pull Notice Record (EPN) is obtained.
- Employer Pull Notices – must be current within 13 months. All EPN records must be signed and dated.
- Drivers’ Hours of Service Records – all driver timekeeping records / records of duty status, including supporting documentation, must be retained for at least 6 months.
- Driver Proficiency Records – drivers records showing the different types of vehicles each can operate proficiently, must be maintained for the term of employment.
- Driver Employment Application – must be retained for the term of employment.
Maintenance Records:
- DVIR (Daily Vehicle Inspection Reports) – must be retained for a minimum of 3 months.
- Mandated Carrier Inspection Reports – must be performed every 90 days and retained for at least 2 years.
- Documentation of all inspection, maintenance, lubrication, and repairs – retained for at least 1 year.
Vehicle Condition:
- Vehicle inspection
- On-Highway Vehicle inspection
Hazardous Materials Records:
- Hazmat training.
- Cargo tank, including proper labeling of packaging and containers.
- Shipping papers including proper entries, sequence, and certification when required, retained for a minimum of 1 year.
Motor carrier laws and regulations are frequently reviewed and change over time. Be sure that you are staying current with these updates as they can affect your ability to operate your fleet of commercial vehicles.
At Vehicle Licensing Consultants, we make it our priority to stay abreast of all regulations affecting the transportation industry. Our services keep your fleet on the road and in compliance. Contact us to learn more about how we help to take the risk of compliance failures off your plate and effectively save you time and money!
