Commercial Vehicle Inspections

Regular annual inspections are required on commercial vehicles with gross mass over 4,500 kilograms, including trucks, truck-tractors, motor homes and buses, to ensure they comply with requirements mandated in the newest version of National Safety Code, Standard 11. All buses must be inspected at least once every six months.

Commercial vehicle inspection includes a compulsory brake component measurement of drum diameter/lining thickness that must be recorded and documented at least once every twenty-four (24) months.

For information about inspection standards for a commercial vehicle, visit the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA). 

Vehicle weight and dimensions

Commercial vehicle owners and operators are responsible for following highway safety regulations and ensuring their vehicle is well maintained and operating within its design limits. Exceeding the manufacturer’s weight rating could cause the vehicle frame to break or lead to premature failure of brakes or axle components. Overweight vehicles increase damage to asphalt road surfaces, especially during spring weather conditions.

Detailed information and the form for certifying the correct axle rating are available in Vehicle Weights and Dimensions Regulations (Part 1 and Schedule 5). 

To confirm where and when seasonal weight restrictions are in effect, refer to Seasonal Weight Restrictions. 

Roadside Inspections

Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Officers conduct roadside inspections on commercial vehicles at scale facilities and other locations throughout the province to ensure drivers and vehicles are in compliance with all mandatory requirements. These inspectors are certified to conduct inspections under the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance. For more information, visit the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA).

How are inspection fees calculated?

Fees are calculated using the advertised hourly shop labour rate. The fee charged is calculated by using the advertised hourly shop labour rate charged by the motor vehicle inspection station is multiplied by the maximum allowable shop time.

• Trucks, buses and motor homes equipped with hydraulic brakes and having one or two rear axles, each designed for four wheels. Maximum allowable shop time is 90 minutes.
• Trailers or semi-trailers equipped with electric or hydraulic brakes. Maximum allowable shop time is 45 minutes.
• Trucks, buses or motor homes equipped with air brakes and having a single rear axle designed for four wheels or two rear axles. Maximum allowable shop time is 90 minutes.
• Trailers or semi-trailers or A, B or C trailer dollies equipped with air brakes. Maximum allowable shop time is 45 minutes.
• Farm trucks. Maximum allowable shop time is 45 minutes.