Motus is expected to replace parts of the current process with what FMCSA describes as a more streamlined, mobile-friendly system for handling registration activity.

What Motus Will Change

According to FMCSA, the new system will function as a centralized dashboard where carriers and other registered entities can manage their information and complete required actions.

FMCSA said Motus will be a “single, secure, and mobile-friendly online dashboard for registration actions” that is rolling out in 2026 for all users.

The shift is part of a broader push to simplify how registration data is managed and accessed.

What Carriers Need to Do Now

Before the system officially launches, FMCSA is asking carriers to take a few specific steps inside the existing FMCSA Portal to avoid issues during the transition.

“To facilitate the transition into the new system, motor carriers and other registered entities should ensure their FMCSA Portal account is active, the correct Portal Company Official is listed, and business information is updated,” the agency said.

The agency outlined the following actions

• Make sure your FMCSA Portal account is active by logging in here. If no account exists, create one
• Confirm the correct Company Official is listed in the Portal. This must be the person authorized to act on behalf of the business
• Use the same Login.gov email for both the FMCSA Portal and Motus to ensure access carries over
• Update company records by completing a Biennial Update using the MCS 150 form in the Registration tab

Why This Step Matters

The Company Official listed in the Portal will be responsible for claiming the USDOT number once Motus goes live. If that information is incorrect or outdated, it could delay access to the new system and slow down registration-related tasks.

Keeping company records current also allows existing data to transfer into Motus more smoothly, reducing setup time once the system is active.

Additional Resources Available

FMCSA has also put together a Registration Modernization Resources Hub that includes frequently asked questions, fact sheets, and other materials to help carriers understand what to expect and how to prepare.

What to Expect Next

The rollout is expected to take place in 2026, and preparation now will determine how smooth that transition is for individual carriers.

Taking a few minutes to confirm account access, verify contacts, and update records can prevent delays once the system goes live and becomes the primary way to manage registration.

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The operation ran from March 29 through April 3, targeting rural state roads in and around the Clayton area through a mix of patrol activity and temporary inspection sites.

“Strike Team officers, K9 officers, and transportation inspectors worked together to perform saturation patrols and establish temporary inspection sites on rural state roads throughout the Clayton area,” the report stated. “Everyone involved put in long days and countless hours to promote roadway safety and reduce commercial vehicle crashes impacting the flow of commerce in northeastern New Mexico.”

Enforcement Results From the Operation

Over the course of the week, officers and inspectors logged the following activity

• 698 commercial vehicle safety inspections
• 59 vehicles placed out of service
• 32 drivers placed out of service
• 175 cargo checks completed
• 286 moving violation citations issued
•  10 equipment violation citations issued
•  301 total CMV citations
• 285 transportation enforcement inspections
• 2 overweight violations
• 112 portable weight checks conducted

Increased Presence on Rural Routes

The operation focused on rural corridors where permanent inspection infrastructure is limited. By combining mobile inspection setups with active patrols, enforcement teams were able to cover a wider area and increase contact with commercial vehicles moving through the region.

Coordinated Enforcement Approach

Multiple units took part in the effort, bringing together inspection personnel, patrol officers, and K9 teams. This approach allowed enforcement to address both vehicle compliance and broader safety concerns during the same operation.

Ongoing Focus on Compliance and Safety

Operations like this are used to identify violations, remove unsafe vehicles or drivers from service when necessary, and maintain safer conditions across key freight routes. The volume of inspections and out-of-service orders reflects a concentrated enforcement window in northeastern New Mexico during that timeframe.

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Released March 13, the agency’s message was direct:
“DO NOT Sell, Purchase, or Lease a USDOT Number or Operating Authority (MC Number) online or elsewhere from an unknown person or outside of a legitimate corporate transaction.”

Why USDOT and MC Numbers Matter

For anyone running under their own authority, a USDOT number isn’t just paperwork. It functions much like an identification number that ties your entire operation to a single legal entity. Whether you’re hauling under your own name or operating as a larger carrier, that number is how regulators track safety records, inspections, and compliance.

According to FMCSA, that connection cannot be separated or reassigned informally.

“The USDOT Number belongs to the same legal person forever and may not be sold, transferred, rented or leased,” the agency wrote in the bulletin. “FMCSA will inactivate USDOT Numbers upon discovery that the number is being used by anyone other than the assigned legal person.”

What Happens If You Ignore the Rule

This isn’t a gray area. If FMCSA finds out that a USDOT or MC number is being bought, sold, or leased outside of a proper business transaction, the consequences can shut an operation down fast.

The agency states it will move to deactivate the number and revoke any associated registrations tied to that authority. For drivers and fleets, that means loads stop, revenue disappears, and rebuilding compliance can take time.

Real-World Risk for Owner-Operators

The warning isn’t just theoretical. Industry groups are already seeing the fallout.

Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) says improper transfers have created major legal and financial headaches for drivers.

Brittany Murphy, an agent in OOIDA’s Permits and Licensing Department, shared an example of an owner-operator who sold his authority. Years later, a crash involving the carrier operating under that same number led to the original owner being held responsible because the transfer wasn’t completed correctly.

That kind of situation can expose drivers to liability long after they think they’ve moved on from a business.

Understanding Legitimate Transfers

There is a difference between selling a company and trying to sell a number. FMCSA recognizes that operating authority can change hands as part of a legitimate corporate transaction, such as selling a business entity.

The key is that the legal structure must transfer properly. Simply handing off a USDOT or MC number without completing the correct process does not count as a valid transfer in the eyes of regulators.

The agency also outlines differences between sole proprietors and corporations, which can affect how authority is handled during ownership changes.

What Drivers Should Do Now

If you’ve ever transferred or sold your authority, it’s worth double-checking that everything was completed correctly. Even if the deal happened years ago, your name could still be tied to that number if the paperwork wasn’t finalized through proper channels.

OOIDA advises drivers with questions to contact its Permits and Licensing Department at 816-229-5791 for guidance.

Bottom Line for the Industry

Shortcuts around compliance rarely stay hidden for long. As enforcement tightens, regulators are watching more closely for misuse of USDOT and MC numbers.

For drivers, owner-operators, and fleet managers, the takeaway is simple: your authority is tied to your identity. Treat it that way, and make sure any transition is done by the book.

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Inspection Summary

From January 1 through February 14, CVED officers conducted 6,455 commercial vehicle inspections. These inspections resulted in 653 drivers being placed out of service and 752 vehicles being removed from operation. Inspectors also recorded 49 oversize violations and 278 overweight violations. Maintaining compliance with regulations remains critical for drivers and fleets to stay on the road safely.

Human Trafficking Awareness Campaign

During the week of January 12 to 16, ISP CVED participated in the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance Human Trafficking Awareness Campaign. Officers used this initiative to identify potential risks and support safe operations across the trucking industry.

Winter Storm Response

Between January 25 and 28, CVED personnel responded to the aftermath of a severe winter storm. During that time, officers investigated 131 vehicle crashes and answered 2,342 calls for service. These efforts were beyond their normal duties, demonstrating the division’s commitment to public and driver safety even under challenging conditions.

Maintaining Compliance

These results emphasize the importance of proactive compliance for all truck drivers. Staying current on vehicle maintenance, weight limits, and safety standards can prevent being placed out of service and protect drivers’ ability to operate efficiently.

The post Indiana State Police Shares Early 2026 Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Results appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

While it may seem like just another enforcement blitz, this initiative carries serious implications for carriers and drivers, especially those already grappling with CSA scores or FMCSA oversight.

This year, the focus is on speeding, a leading cause of truck-related fatalities. According to NHTSA data, speeding contributes to nearly one-third of fatal crashes. But this week isn’t just about issuing tickets—it’s a chance for fleets to address unsafe practices before they spiral into costly compliance issues, higher insurance premiums, lost business, or even shutdowns.

What is CVSA Safe Driver Week?

CVSA Safe Driver Week is a coordinated effort across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico aimed at identifying and addressing unsafe driving behaviors in both commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators and passenger drivers. During this week, law enforcement will issue warnings and citations for violations such as:

• Speeding, tailgating, and aggressive lane changes.
• Distracted driving, including mobile phone use.
• Seat belt infractions.
• Ignoring traffic control devices.

The overarching goal? To deter dangerous driving and hold operators accountable through roadside interventions. As CVSA emphasizes, the focus is on ensuring the safe operation of all commercial vehicles.

Why This Matters for Fleets and Drivers

It’s easy to dismiss Safe Driver Week as a temporary inconvenience, but it’s part of a much larger picture. These enforcement periods directly impact your FMCSA profile, shaping your safety reputation in the eyes of insurers, brokers, and shippers.

Every violation recorded during these blitzes contributes to your CSA scores, and repeated issues in areas like unsafe driving, HOS compliance, or vehicle maintenance can trigger a domino effect:

• Higher ISS Scores: The FMCSA’s Inspection Selection System (ISS) uses your safety performance to determine how often your fleet gets inspected. A high ISS score means more frequent stops, even if your trucks are running clean.
• Increased Inspections = More Violations: Each inspection creates an opportunity for additional write-ups, especially if past issues haven’t been addressed.
• Noncompliance Cycle: Once your BASIC scores hit the alert threshold, it becomes harder to secure top-tier freight or renew insurance policies, especially in today’s tough insurance market.

Building a Clean Inspection Strategy

Breaking the cycle of noncompliance starts with a proactive approach. Don’t wait until Safe Driver Week to act—make safety a daily priority. Here’s how:

1. Train Drivers Proactively: Educate your team on behaviors that trigger enforcement stops, like speeding or distracted driving.
2. Coach Respectful Interactions: Teach drivers how to handle roadside inspections professionally and accurately.
3. Leverage Safety Technology: Invest in tools like AI-enabled dashcams, driver scoring systems, and real-time coaching platforms to identify and correct unsafe behaviors before they lead to violations.

As CVSA officers focus on speeding, distracted driving, and seatbelt use this July, fleets equipped with AI-backed safety systems will have a significant advantage. These tools not only prevent accidents but also reduce the likelihood of citations. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Beyond Safe Driver Week: Other CVSA Events to Watch

Safe Driver Week is just one of several CVSA initiatives designed to address specific compliance risks. Upcoming events include:

• Brake Safety Week (August 25–31, 2025): This annual campaign targets brake system violations, one of the most common out-of-service issues. Inspectors will focus on brake components, lining conditions, and air system integrity during Level I and IV inspections.

Each event is an opportunity to strengthen your compliance strategy. If you’re only learning about these blitzes a week in advance, you’re already behind. Smart fleets conduct year-round internal audits, mock inspections, and data reviews to stay ahead of the curve.

Why Out-of-Service Criteria Are Critical

The CVSA Out-of-Service (OOS) Criteria outlines violations that can immediately sideline a truck or driver until the issue is resolved. Updated annually, these criteria are essential for maintaining compliance. Building checklists around OOS standards can help fleets avoid costly downtime, legal trouble, and reputational damage.

The Hidden Costs of Neglecting Safety

Failing to prepare for enforcement events doesn’t just result in tickets—it can lead to:

• Skyrocketing insurance premiums or policy cancellations.
• Lost contracts with shippers and brokers who monitor CSA data.
• Downtime, repair expenses, and towing fees for out-of-service vehicles.
• Increased driver turnover due to unclear compliance structures.
• FMCSA audits or interventions.

In today’s competitive freight market, safety isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your brand, revenue, and long-term survival.

Final Thoughts: Turning Enforcement into Opportunity

For fleet managers, owner-operators, and safety directors, events like Operation Safe Driver Week shouldn’t be seen as threats. Instead, view them as opportunities to improve.

Every clean inspection, every corrected behavior, and every investment in driver support brings you closer to lowering your ISS score, avoiding FMCSA intervention, and positioning your fleet as a top-tier carrier in a highly scrutinized industry.

Source: Freightwaves

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What is Brake Safety Day?

Brake Safety Day is an unannounced event under CVSA’s Operation Airbrake program. During this initiative, certified inspectors carry out routine roadside inspections with a special focus on brake systems and components. This includes identifying violations and collecting brake-related data.

According to CVSA, the inspections were conducted on April 22, and 91.3% of the vehicles inspected (4,171) were free of brake-related out-of-service violations. However, 8.7% (398 vehicles) presented critical brake issues serious enough to require immediate out-of-service orders.

Key Focus Areas and Findings

This year, inspectors emphasized vehicle drums and rotors. Out of all inspected vehicles, 32 (8%) were found with drum/rotor violations, 14 of which resulted in out-of-service orders. CVSA emphasized, “Brake drum and rotor issues may affect a commercial motor vehicle’s brake efficiency and result in violations or out-of-service conditions that may affect a motor carrier’s safety rating. Furthermore, broken pieces of drums or rotors may dislodge and damage other vehicles, causing injuries or fatalities.”

Additional brake-related findings included:

• Defective brakes: 237 vehicles (59.5%) had 20% or more of their brakes in out-of-service condition.
• Brake hose/tubing violations: 77 vehicles were cited for these issues.
• Steering axle violations: 48 vehicles were found with out-of-service steering axle problems.
• Air loss rate test failures: 38 vehicles failed this vital test.
• Other brake-related issues: 112 vehicles faced violations, including worn hoses, inoperative warning devices, hydraulic fluid leaks, and more.

Performance-Based Brake Testing (PBBT)

For added inspection precision, nine U.S. jurisdictions used Performance-Based Brake Testers (PBBTs). A PBBT evaluates a vehicle’s braking performance, and federal regulations mandate a minimum braking efficiency of 43.5%. Out of 100 vehicles tested via PBBT, 8% failed to meet this standard and were placed out of service.

Ongoing Brake Safety Efforts

Brake Safety Day is a part of CVSA’s broader Operation Airbrake program aimed at enhancing commercial vehicle brake safety across North America. The initiative will continue with the upcoming Brake Safety Week, scheduled for August 24–30.

Maintaining commercial vehicle brake systems is not only crucial for regulatory compliance but also essential for ensuring road safety and preventing potentially catastrophic accidents. For commercial drivers and fleet operators, these efforts highlight the importance of regular maintenance and inspections.

Source: The Trucker

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What’s New in the 2025 Out-of-Service Criteria?

Last year, CVSA’s voting members approved 15 key modifications to the out-of-service criteria. These adjustments are now active and will impact inspections across North America. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most notable changes:

• License Endorsements & Restrictions: Updates have been made to “Part I, Item 2. Operator’s/Chauffeur’s License or Permit (Non-CDL), B. Endorsements and Restrictions” and “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, c. Endorsements and Restrictions” to clarify Canada’s Transportation of Dangerous Goods Certificate requirements.
• Commercial Learner’s Permit: “Part I, Item 3. Commercial Driver’s License, b. Commercial Learner’s Permit (1)” now explicitly states that a supervising driver for a learner must be fully authorized to operate a commercial vehicle.
• Medical Certification Updates: In “Part I, Item 4. Driver Medical/Physical Requirements, b. Medical Certificate (3),” passenger-carrying and property-carrying vehicles are now included under the same out-of-service condition, removing property-carrying vehicles from a separate clause.
• Brake System Changes: A new out-of-service condition has been added for inoperative brakes caused by an unplugged electrical cable in “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, A. Defective Brakes, (7) Hydraulic and Electric Brakes, (H).” Additionally, language was added to address a disconnected service gladhand in “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, h. Air Brake Hose/Tubing.”
• Air Brake Hose & Tubing Adjustments: The previous out-of-service condition for crimped hoses and tubing, which restricts airflow, has been removed from “Part II, Item 1.” Brake Systems, h. Air Brake Hose/Tubing, (5).”
• Brake Hose and Line Markings: Language has been introduced to “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, h. Air Brake Hose/Tubing” and “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, o. Hydraulic Brakes (3)” to address cases where brake hoses or lines are marked for applications other than the specified brake system.
• Tractor Protection System: “Part II, Item 1. Brake Systems, l. Tractor Protection System” now requires both the primary and secondary systems to be below 20 psi, rather than just one.
• Cargo Securement Clarifications: Additional language has been included in “Part II, Item 2. Cargo Securement, a. General Securement” to clarify violations of regulation 392.9(a)(2).
• Lighting Device Updates: A new section has been added specifically for projecting load lamps under “Part II, Item 9. Lighting Devices (Headlamps, Tail Lamps, Stop Lamps, Turn Signals and Lamps/Flags on Projecting Loads), b. At Any Time – Day or Night.”
• Suspension System Adjustments: Clarifications regarding U-bolt bottom plates have been included in “Part II, Item 11. Suspensions, a. Axle Parts/Members (1).” A note and updated diagram have been added to “Part II, Item 11. Suspensions, d. Suspension Connecting Rod and Tracking Component Assembly (2).”
• Tire Regulations: Additional notes have been added to “Part II, Item 12. Tires, a. Any Tire on Any Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit, (8)” and “b. All Tires Other Than Those Found on the Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit (4)” regarding rubber mud flaps.
• Tire Leaks & Automatic Tire Inflation Systems (ATIS): In “Part II, Item 12. Tires, b. All Tires Other Than Those Found on the Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit,” a new out-of-service condition has been introduced for tires without ATIS if a leak is present in the tread area. Meanwhile, leaks in the sidewall are now considered out of service, regardless of whether ATIS is used.
• Radial & Bias Tires Unified: Changes to “Part II, Item 12. Tires, b. All Tires Other Than Those Found on the Front Steering Axle(s) of a Power Unit, (6)-(7), (8)-(9)” eliminate separate out-of-service conditions for radial and bias tires, merging them into a single category.

What This Means for Drivers

These updates have been fully integrated into the North American Standard Inspection Program, impacting training materials, inspection procedures, operational policies, and training videos. Truck drivers should ensure they understand these changes to remain compliant during inspections.

For further details, truckers can contact CVSA Director of Inspection Programs Kerri Wirachowsky by calling 202-998-1650.

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