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FMCSA Mock Audits

Proactively uncover compliance issues before the official audit.
A federal audit usually follows patterns of safety violations or complaints. Our FMCSA mock audits simulate the actual inspection process, helping your company identify deficiencies in documentation, training, maintenance, or operations. Shield DOT Compliance works with you to develop a thorough corrective action plan—one that demonstrates responsibility and commitment to safety. Preparing ahead of time not only reduces penalties but can also protect your company’s operating authority from suspension or revocation.

Learn more about the BASICs

UNSAFE
DRIVING
Warning sign showing a tilted car and the text 'UNSAFE DRIVING'.

Unsafe Driving

The Unsafe Driving BASIC prioritizes interventions for repeated unsafe behaviors, including:

  • Texting

  • Speeding

  • Using a hand-held cell phone

  • Reckless driving

  • Improper lane change

  • Inattention

Federal regulations related to this BASIC

49 CFR Parts 392 and 397 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs).

Note: Violations recorded on a roadside inspection report are used in the SMS, regardless of whether a State officer also issues a citation (i.e., ticket) or a verbal warning. If a driver or carrier receives violations on a roadside inspection report, they can request a review of the data through DataQs. The SMS does not use State-issued citations unless they are issued in conjunction with a roadside inspection report.

CRASH
INDICATOR
Icon of a smoking truck labeled 'Not Public Crash Indicator'.

Crash Indicator

State-reported crashes from the last two years are collected in this BASIC to help identify patterns of high crash involvement and the behaviors or set of behaviors that contributed to the crash. Crashes involving commercial motor vehicles, as defined in 49 CFR 390.5, are reportable if they result in a fatality or injury, or require a vehicle to be transported from the crash scene, regardless of the carrier or driver's role in the crash.

The Crash Indicator BASIC is not public. It is only available to a motor carrier that is logged into its own safety profile, or to enforcement personnel.

The Crash Indicator BASIC is not public. It is only available to a motor carrier that is logged into its own safety profile, or to enforcement personnel.

Federal regulations related to this BASIC

This is the only BASIC that does not use violations of specific regulations. However, commercial drivers and motor carriers must comply with the FMCSRs. Noncompliance with FMCSA safety regulations can lead to an increased risk of being involved in crashes and impact a carrier's percentile in the Crash Indicator BASIC.

HOURS-OF-SERVICE COMPLIANCE
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Hours-of-Service (HOS) Compliance

This BASIC addresses requirements for all large truck and bus drivers to ensure that they are alert, awake, and able to respond quickly.

For the latest information and resources on HOS, visit FMCSA's Website.

Federal regulations related to this BASIC

49 CFR Parts 392 and 395 of the FMCSRs.

VEHICLE
MAINTENANCE
Icon of a wrench and nut representing vehicle maintenance.

Vehicle Maintenance

This BASIC considers proper vehicle maintenance to help ensure safety on the road, including pre- and post-trip inspections, vehicle defects, and repairs.

Federal regulations related to this BASIC

49 CFR Parts 392, 393 and 396 of the FMCSRs.

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES/ALCOHOL
Icon of a bottle with 'Controlled Substances/Alcohol' text.

Controlled Substances/Alcohol

This BASIC addresses misuse of alcohol, illegal drugs, and over-the-counter and prescription medications that impair driving abilities and endanger everyone's safety on the road. Having containers of alcoholic beverages in CMV cabs, whether open or not, is a violation.

 

Federal regulations related to this BASIC

49 CFR Parts 382 and 392 of the FMCSRs.

DRIVER
FITNESS
Icon representing driver fitness with ID cards and a silhouette.

Driver Fitness

This BASIC addresses driving records. Motor carriers are responsible for ensuring driver qualification files are complete and current. Required files for each and every driver include commercial drivers' licenses (CDLs), medical certificates, State driving records, annual reviews of driving records, and employment applications.

Federal regulations related to this BASIC

49 CFR Parts 383 and 391 of the FMCSRs.

Note: The Driver Fitness BASIC does not consider body mass index (BMI), weight, or neck size.

Ensuring a Smooth Audit Experience

We assist in gathering necessary documentation and provide insights to address potential issues before they arise. Our support minimizes stress during audits.

Want to prepare effectively for your audit?