Top Reasons Trucks and Drivers Are Placed Out of Service

An Out-of-Service order means that a commercial vehicle or driver cannot continue operating until the applicable condition has been corrected or the required Out-of-Service period has ended.

Vehicles placed Out of Service generally cannot return to operation until the critical defect has been corrected. Drivers placed Out of Service cannot legally resume driving until they are permitted to do so. (CSA Compliance, Safety, Accountability⁠)

Common Reasons a Driver May Be Placed Out of Service

Hours-of-Service Violations

A driver may be placed Out of Service for exceeding driving or on-duty limits, failing to take required rest periods, or having no valid record of duty status.

False or Missing Logs

Falsified logs, missing ELD records, use of another driver’s account, or an inability to produce required records may result in serious violations.

Suspended, Revoked, or Invalid CDL

A driver must have a valid license for the type of commercial vehicle being operated. Driving with a suspended, revoked, expired, or incorrect class of CDL can result in an Out-of-Service order.

Expired or Missing Medical Certification

Drivers subject to FMCSA medical qualification requirements must remain medically qualified and have current certification reflected as required.

Drug and Alcohol Violations

A driver with a prohibited status in the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse cannot perform safety-sensitive functions until the Return-to-Duty process has been completed.

Alcohol or Drug Possession or Use

Operating while impaired or possessing prohibited substances can result in immediate removal from service and additional enforcement action.

Common Reasons a Vehicle May Be Placed Out of Service

Brake Defects

Examples include defective brakes, brakes out of adjustment, air leaks, damaged brake components, and an excessive number of brakes that are not functioning properly.

Tire and Wheel Problems

Flat tires, exposed cords, insufficient tread, damaged rims, loose or missing lug nuts, and other critical wheel defects can result in an Out-of-Service order.

Lighting Problems

Inoperative required lights, especially when operating in conditions where those lights are required, may lead to violations or Out-of-Service conditions.

Steering and Suspension Defects

Loose, broken, missing, or severely worn steering and suspension components may make a vehicle unsafe to operate.

Improperly Secured Cargo

Cargo that can shift, leak, fall, or otherwise create a safety hazard may result in the vehicle being placed Out of Service.

Fuel or Exhaust System Defects

Serious fuel leaks, exhaust leaks in dangerous locations, and unsecured fuel system components may create immediate safety risks.

How to Reduce Out-of-Service Violations

Motor carriers should require thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections, promptly repair reported defects, conduct scheduled preventive maintenance, and train drivers to recognize unsafe conditions before beginning a trip.