§396.23 Equivalent to a Periodic Inspection

Question 1: Is a CVSA Level I or Level V inspection a "State * * * roadside inspection program" through which a motor carrier may meet the periodic inspection requirements of §396.17? If so, what evidence of inspection is required?

Guidance: A CVSA Level I or Level V inspection is equivalent to the Federal periodic inspection requirements. A CMV that passes such an inspection has therefore met §396.17, unless the vehicle is subject to a mandatory State inspection program that the FHWA has determined is comparable to, or as effective as, the Federal requirements [see §396.23(b)(1)]. A CVSA decal displayed on the CMV, or a copy of the Level I or Level V inspection report maintained in the vehicle, constitutes sufficient evidence of inspection.