DOT fines can crush small carriers. 🚛 From $1,000 HOS violations to $82,000 drug program penalties, here are the top fines that hurt trucking companies—and how to avoid them.

Confused about DVIRs? 🚛 DOT doesn’t require a written Driver Vehicle Inspection Report every day unless defects are found — but drivers still must perform daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections and show them in the log. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant, avoid fines, and protect your CSA score.

Thinking about operating under your own authority? The BOC-3 isn’t optional paperwork – it’s a federal requirement that can cost you $16,000+ in fines if you get it wrong. As a former owner-operator, I’ll show you exactly what you need to know about process agent designation, when to file it, and the costly mistakes that shut down new authorities before they even get started.

Failing a DOT drug test doesn’t just sideline you — it triggers federal rules, Clearinghouse reporting, and thousands in costs. Here’s what happens next, the Return-to-Duty steps every driver must complete, and how carriers can avoid the fines that sink small trucking companies.

FMCSA requires you to keep driver qualification files for the entire time a driver is employed — plus three years after they leave. 📂 Skip this and the fines can sting. ⚠️ Here’s what belongs in the file, what to purge, and the common mistakes carriers make.

DOT roadside inspections can get expensive fast if you’re missing paperwork. From CDL and medical cards to DVIRs and bills of lading—forgetting just one can cost you thousands. Here’s the exact driver checklist (with fines) to keep you legal and moving.