Compliance education
Understand the programs before the deadline finds you
These guides explain what each inspection and emissions program is, which fleets it applies to, and how digital recordkeeping changes the outcome.
CHP BIT Inspections
What it is
The California Highway Patrol Basic Inspection of Terminals (BIT) program requires motor carriers to inspect regulated vehicles at least every 90 days and keep those records available for review.
Why it matters
Fleets subject to BIT are rated on their maintenance program, not just the condition of one truck. Complete, consistent inspection records are the evidence that the program exists.
Benefits of staying on top of it
- Documented 90-day inspection cycle for every regulated unit
- Defect history that shows repairs were actually completed
- Faster terminal inspections with records ready on request
- Fewer out-of-service surprises during roadside inspections
DOT Annual Inspections
What it is
Federal regulations require every commercial motor vehicle to pass a periodic (annual) inspection covering brakes, steering, suspension, lighting, tires, wheels, frame, coupling devices and more.
Why it matters
The annual inspection is the baseline safety review for a commercial vehicle and the record most often requested during an audit or after a roadside stop.
Benefits of staying on top of it
- Standardized inspection criteria across the whole fleet
- Proof of inspector qualification and inspection date
- Scheduling that flags units approaching expiration
- Fleet readiness reporting by location or department
California Clean Truck Check
What it is
Clean Truck Check (CTC) is CARB's heavy-duty inspection and maintenance program. Most non-gasoline vehicles over 14,000 lbs GVWR operating in California must be reported and tested on a recurring schedule.
Why it matters
Compliance affects DMV registration and the ability to operate in California. Missing a testing deadline can take a unit off the road.
Benefits of staying on top of it
- Per-vehicle CTC status and next-test date
- Reminders before compliance deadlines
- Test records stored with the vehicle history
- Fleet-level view of which units still need testing
Emissions Compliance
What it is
Emissions compliance covers aftertreatment health, fault-code history, preventive emissions maintenance and the recordkeeping that proves the work was done.
Why it matters
Emissions-related failures are among the most expensive sources of downtime. Preventive work and documented service history reduce both fines and repair cost.
Benefits of staying on top of it
- DPF, EGR and SCR service intervals tracked per unit
- Emissions fault-code history captured with diagnostics
- Preventive maintenance scheduling before failures occur
- Recordkeeping that supports regulatory review
Smoke Testing
Coming soonWhat it is
Smoke testing introduces controlled low-pressure smoke into a sealed system to reveal leaks that are difficult to find by inspection alone.
Why it matters
Smoke testing helps locate intake leaks, exhaust leaks, EVAP system leaks and other emissions-related sealing failures where applicable to the vehicle or equipment.
Benefits of staying on top of it
- Locate intake and boost leaks quickly
- Identify exhaust and aftertreatment leak points
- Find EVAP leaks where applicable
- Reduce diagnostic guesswork and parts replacement
Keep every compliance record in one place
AssetStacc tracks inspection intervals, stores the reports, and alerts you before a deadline passes.