How to Prepare for an FMCSA New Entrant Safety Audit

New entrant motor carriers should establish their compliance systems before an FMCSA safety audit. Preparation should focus on driver qualification, controlled substances and alcohol testing, HOS, vehicle maintenance, and other applicable safety requirements. Official reference: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/new-entrant-safety-assurance-program

Official Government Portal

Create a compliance checklist. Build a checklist based on the carrier type, equipment, drivers, cargo, and applicable FMCSA requirements.
Audit driver files. Verify that applicable Driver Qualification Files contain required documentation.
Review drug and alcohol records. Confirm testing program and Clearinghouse responsibilities are being handled correctly.
Review HOS and ELD records. Check recent records for violations, missing information, and recurring issues.
Review vehicle records. Confirm inspection, maintenance, repair, and other required vehicle records are organized.
Run a mock audit. Perform an internal review before the regulatory audit to identify gaps.