FMCSA compliance isn’t optional — and it’s not as complicated as it sounds when you have the right systems. VAU0 automates the compliance tasks that cause violations, tracks every expiration date before it becomes a problem, and gives you audit-ready records in minutes, not days.
⚠️ An FMCSA compliance review can arrive with as little as 48 hours notice. Carriers who can’t produce their DQ files, driver logs, and vehicle inspection records face fines of up to $16,000 per violation — and out-of-service orders that stop your operation entirely.
🛈 Carriers with BASIC scores above the FMCSA threshold are subject to Compliance Reviews (audits) and potential Notice of Violation. VAU0 tracks all seven BASIC categories and alerts you to developing risk patterns before they become enforcement actions.
| Violation | CFR Reference | Max Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Operating without authority | 49 CFR 392.9a | $16,000/day |
| HOS violation — driving hours | 49 CFR 395 | $16,000 per violation |
| Falsifying driver logs | 49 CFR 395 | $16,000 per violation |
| ELD non-compliance | 49 CFR 395.8 | $16,000 per violation |
| No pre-employment drug test | 49 CFR 382 | $16,000 per driver |
| Operating with disqualified driver | 49 CFR 391 | $16,000 per instance |
| Incomplete DQ file | 49 CFR 391 | Up to $11,000 per driver |
| DVIR not completed | 49 CFR 396.11 | $1,000-$11,000 |
| Annual inspection expired | 49 CFR 396.17 | $1,000-$11,000 |
| Vehicle maintenance violation | 49 CFR 396 | Up to $11,000 per vehicle |
Source: FMCSA civil penalty guidelines. Penalties shown are maximums per violation instance. Multiple violations from a single inspection are assessed separately.
Carriers who use VAU0 from their first operating day arrive at their new entrant audit prepared. We’ve built every compliance requirement into the normal operational workflow — so staying compliant isn’t extra work. It’s just how VAU0 works.