FMCSA New Entrant Safety Audit: How to Pass

Every new interstate carrier enters FMCSA's 18-month New Entrant Safety Assurance Program and receives a safety audit, usually within the first 12 months. The auditor reviews driver files, hours of service, maintenance, insurance and drug and alcohol testing.

By TruckerStack Editorial, AK Digital Marketing LLC · Reviewed against eCFR and FMCSA pages on 2026-11-04 · Editorial policy

What the audit covers

The program is in 49 CFR Part 385, Subpart D. Expect to show:

• Driver qualification files and medical certificates (391)
• Records of duty status / ELD data (395)
• Vehicle inspection and maintenance files (396)
• Proof of required insurance (387)
• Drug & alcohol testing program and Clearinghouse use if drivers need a CDL (382)
• Accident register

Automatic failures

FMCSA lists specific violations that fail the audit on their own (Appendix A to Part 385 lists them), such as having no drug and alcohol testing program when required, using a driver without a valid CDL or medical card, or operating without required insurance. A failed audit triggers a corrective action plan deadline; missing it leads to revocation of registration.

How to prepare

1. Build files before your first load, not after the audit letter.
2. Keep six months of HOS records and supporting documents.
3. Do and file annual vehicle inspections.
4. Check your public record with our DOT lookup and confirm data in FMCSA registration.

Back to the authority guide.

FAQ