What Is Department of Transportation Compliance?

The Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates transportation of all kinds including ships, buses, semi trucks, airplanes and trains. The DOT issues certain rules for transportation companies (owned by an individual or company) to follow while on the road, in the air, on rails and in water. Staying in compliance with the DOT means following the procedures set forth by the government agency.

About the DOT

• DOT's first official workday took place on April 1^st, 1967. Congress established DOT by passing an act allowing the government agency to form on October 15, 1966. The general public, along with companies, answer to safety laws issued by DOT every day. The Office of the Secretary oversees the Department of Transportation. Major problems within the agency get reported to the president of the U.S. by way of the Office of the Secretary.

 DOT Compliance

• When you follow the safety guidelines set by the DOT, you stay compliant. For motor carriers, this means turning in log books and semi-truck safety information. Railroad companies must stay in compliance by taking part in safety inspections mandated by the DOT. Air companies maintain good terms with the DOT by keeping up with industry standards, from the time of the aircraft's construction through to when the airplane flies through the air. Keeping in compliance with the Federal Highway Administration allows you to avoid problems on the major highways of the U.S.

Problems with Non-Compliance

• Not staying in compliance with the Department of Transportation can get you into trouble. Penalties include written warnings, fines, closure of your business and a stint in jail in some cases.