What’s required in a DOT truck safety kit?
If you operate a commercial truck, delivery vehicle, or manage a fleet, meeting the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) safety requirements isn’t just about compliance — it’s about protecting drivers, cargo, and everyone else on the road. Having the right safety equipment for trucks is a must for passing inspections, avoiding costly violations, and staying safe in emergencies.
Under FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) regulations, most commercial trucks and fleet vehicles must carry the following safety items:
1 - Fire Extinguisher
- Properly charged, securely mounted, and easy to access
- Minimum UL rating of 5 B:C for non hazardous transport vehicles, but a 1A:10BC fire extinguisher is recommended for most vehicles though
2 - Three reflective warning triangles
- Warning devices for stopped vehicles to warn other drivers
- Essential for roadside emergencies, breakdowns, or accident scenes
3 - Spare Electrical Fuses
- If your vehicle uses fuses, you must have at least one spare of each type and rating used.
- Store them in a safe, dry, and accessible location.
Optional Recommendations:
We strongly recommend additional items such as:
- Hi-vis apparel - Class 2 and class 3 safety vests and gloves to increase vehicle operator visibility for their safety.
- Evacuation Tools - such as seat belt cutters / window breaking hammers for quicker evacuation of a vehicle.
- Low-Light illumination - LED flares to help illuminate the vehicle and surrounding area.
Why DOT Safety Gear Matters for Trucking Fleets:
- Pass DOT Inspections: Missing or non-compliant safety items can result in fines and violations that hurt your CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) score.
- A fully stocked truck emergency kit reduces risks for your drivers and minimizes downtime.
- Staying compliant keeps your trucks and drivers on the road, avoiding service interruptions.
See our collection of DOT safety kits HERE.
Whether you manage one truck or a fleet, the DOT safety requirements are non-negotiable. A truck safety kit that meets DOT and FMCSA standards is a small investment that pays off in reduced downtime, better safety ratings, avoidance of fines and peace of mind for your drivers.
If you require custom kits for your fleet, please send us an email and we will be happy to work with you to get you what you need!
