DOT Blitz Week 2025: What fleet operators and carriers need to know

The annual International Roadcheck, commonly known as DOT Blitz Week, is scheduled for May 13-15, 2025. This three-day enforcement initiative is a critical event for fleet operators across North America. Here's what you need to know to ensure your fleet stays compliant and on the road and how we can help.

What is DOT Blitz Week?

International Roadcheck is the largest targeted enforcement program for commercial motor vehicles in the world. Established in 1988, this annual event involves CVSA-certified inspectors conducting compliance, enforcement, and educational initiatives focused on motor carrier, vehicle, and driver safety.During this period, enforcement activities increase dramatically across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. On average, nearly 15 trucks and motorcoaches are inspected every minute during the blitz, with roadside inspections totaling more than 1.8 million since the program's inception.

2025 focus areas

Each year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) announces specific focus areas for inspectors. For 2025, inspectors will be paying particular attention to:

1. Tire condition and compliance
2. False records of duty status

While inspectors will be examining all aspects of vehicle and driver compliance, these areas will receive heightened scrutiny.

Why this matters: recent statistics

Looking at data from the 2023 DOT Blitz Week in the United States:

• 59,429 commercial vehicle inspections were conducted nationwide
• 19% of vehicles were placed out of service due to violations
• The top violations for vehicles included issues with brake systems, tires, and lights
• For drivers, hours of service violations, false logs, and medical card issues were the most common infractions

These statistics highlight the importance of thorough preparation. Nearly one in five inspected vehicles was removed from service, creating significant operational disruptions and financial consequences for unprepared fleet operators.

Proactive preparation strategies

1. Don't wait until the last minute

Inspecting your fleet takes time, and addressing identified issues requires even more. As Blitz Week approaches, inspection facilities become increasingly busy, making last-minute compliance efforts challenging and potentially costly.

2. Focus on common violation areas

Based on historical data, pay special attention to:

• Brake systems
• Tire condition (especially relevant for 2025's focus)
• Lighting and electrical systems
• Hours of service records (ensure accuracy and completeness)
• Driver qualification files and medical certifications

3. Conduct comprehensive pre-inspections

A thorough pre-inspection can identify potential violations before they become problems during an official roadside inspection. This proactive approach can help you avoid:

• Costly fines and penalties
• Operational disruptions from out-of-service orders
• CSA score impacts that affect your company's safety rating
• Increased insurance premiums

4. Educate your drivers

Ensure your drivers understand:

• The importance of accurate hours of service records
• Pre-trip inspection requirements and procedures
• Current documentation requirements
• What to expect during roadside inspections

Maintaining year-round compliance

While DOT Blitz Week creates urgency around compliance, maintaining a consistent inspection and maintenance program throughout the year is the best strategy for long-term success. Regular inspections and preventative maintenance not only prepare you for enforcement events but also improve safety, reduce roadside breakdowns, and extend vehicle lifespans.

By approaching compliance as an ongoing priority rather than a periodic response to enforcement events, fleet operators can transform what might be seen as a regulatory burden into a business advantage.

Conclusion

DOT Blitz Week represents both a challenge and an opportunity for fleet operators. By understanding the focus areas, preparing thoroughly, and maintaining year-round compliance practices, you can minimize disruptions while demonstrating your commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.

Preparation is key - don't wait until enforcement ramps up to ensure your fleet is ready for the road.

Use our online booking tool to view available appointments and meet virtually with our certified DOT inspectors.

For more information about Yoshi's virtual DOT inspection services and how we can help prepare your fleet for DOT Blitz Week, contact us today.