How to Pass a DOT Audit: 6 Essential Steps

Complying with DOT regulations not only prevents penalties — it is the key to ensuring the continuity, reputation, and financial stability of your business.

If you want to pass a DOT audit without complications, make sure to follow these 6 essential steps:

1. Proof of Insurance

Lack of proper financial coverage can put your entire business at risk. Keep the required documents updated and accessible (MC-90, BMC-91, or BMC-91X) to demonstrate your insurance and protect yourself from the costs of an accident.

2. Drug & Alcohol Consortium Certificate

Every company must be enrolled in a random drug and alcohol testing program. Submitting the consortium certificate and your company’s policy is mandatory. Failing to do so may result in severe fines and reputational damage.

3. Pre-Employment Drug Tests

Hiring without a pre-employment drug test is a critical mistake. Verify that every driver hired within the last 12 months has been tested to prevent road risks and regulatory penalties.

4. Clearinghouse Queries

Neglecting the Clearinghouse is equivalent to opening the door to fines and legal charges. You must run pre-employment and annual queries to ensure that no driver has active restrictions or prohibitions.

5. Driver Qualification Files (DQF)

Driver qualification files must be complete and organized. They include:

Employment application
Valid CDL
Medical certificate
Road test results
MVRs
Clearinghouse records

Missing items or inconsistencies often result in automatic audit failures.

6. DOT Supervisor Training Certificate

Supervisors of CDL drivers must be trained to recognize signs of drug and alcohol abuse. If they do not have this mandatory training, the risk of non-compliance is high.