New entrant safety audit checklist
Every new carrier gets audited. Have these records ready before FMCSA asks.
New carriers are in FMCSA’s New Entrant Safety Assurance Program for 18 months. The safety audit usually happens within the first 12 months and may be done remotely or on-site. FMCSA checks that you have basic safety management controls in place.
Some violations fail the audit automatically. The items marked Required below cover the most common ones.
Drivers
Drug and alcohol (CDL drivers)
Hours of service
Vehicles
Company
Your checkmarks are saved on this device.
This page is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change; confirm with FMCSA, the IRS or your state before you file.
Questions carriers ask
What happens if I fail the safety audit?
FMCSA notifies you and gives you a limited time to submit a corrective action plan. If you don't, your new entrant registration can be revoked.
Is the audit done in person?
It can be done remotely or on-site. Either way, you'll need to provide your records.