A New Entrant Audit is a safety audit conducted by the Department of Transportation (DOT)
to assess the compliance of newly registered motor carriers with safety regulations.
New motor carriers, typically those operating for less than 18 months, are subject to this audit
as part of the registration process.
The audit includes a review of safety management practices, driver qualification files, vehicle
maintenance, hours of service records, and other compliance aspects.
Failing the audit can result in penalties, fines, and even the suspension or revocation of a carrier's operating authority.
Carriers can prepare by ensuring all required documents and records are in order, drivers are
properly trained, and vehicles are well-maintained.
The audit is typically scheduled within the first 12 months of a carrier's operations, but
specific timelines can vary by jurisdiction.