What are the FMCSA record keeping requirements?

The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) has specific record-keeping requirements that reflect the need for accurate documentation in the trucking and transportation industry. The correct answer regarding the retention of original reports is that they must be kept for 14 months, alongside maintaining the receipt for 12 months.

This requirement ensures that records are available for review and potential audits, which is crucial for verifying compliance with safety regulations and standards. Retaining the report for 14 months allows sufficient time for inspection and ensures that any safety violations can be addressed within a reasonable period. Additionally, maintaining receipts for 12 months provides a trackable means to confirm transactions related to the reports, which can be essential for financial oversight and accountability.

This time frame for record-keeping balances the need for operational efficiency and accountability, allowing for proper oversight while ensuring that necessary documents are promptly accessible when needed for regulatory purposes.