Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Transportation Inspector
What transportation inspectors actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Set up at a weigh station with a state trooper and review the day’s plan. From there, the day usually includes inspect vehicles, aircraft, track or equipment for safety, review logs, maintenance records and certifications, and enforce federal and state regulations. Most work full-time; roadside, airline and rail inspections may include early mornings, nights and weekends.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a transportation inspector working full time.
- Set up at a weigh station with a state trooper and review the day’s plan.
- Conduct a Level I inspection on a tractor-trailer: brakes, lights, tires and driver documents.
- Place a truck out of service for a brake defect and explain the violation.
- Inspect a hazmat load for proper placards and shipping papers.
- Review electronic logs for hours-of-service compliance.
- Visit a carrier to follow up on a compliance review.
- Enter inspection reports into the national database.
Where transportation inspectors work
Inspectors work at roadside, weigh stations, airports, rail yards, ports and company offices, often outdoors and in all weather. Some travel frequently within a region.
Hours and schedule
Most work full-time; roadside, airline and rail inspections may include early mornings, nights and weekends.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Inspect vehicles, aircraft, track or equipment for safety
- Review logs, maintenance records and certifications
- Enforce federal and state regulations
- Place unsafe equipment or drivers out of service
- Investigate accidents and complaints
- Audit companies for compliance
- Write reports and testify when needed
Tools you’ll use every day
- Inspection checklists and tablets
- Brake adjustment gauges
- Tire gauges and flashlights
- Creepers and jacks
- Portable scales
- Inspection databases
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Strong pay and government benefits
- Uses prior industry experience
- Important public safety mission
- Variety and travel
What’s hard
- Requires years of prior experience
- Conflict with drivers or companies
- Outdoor work in all weather
- Travel away from home
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I know vehicles, aircraft or railroads well
- I like enforcing safety rules fairly
- I can handle disagreements calmly
- I don’t mind outdoor work and travel
- I’m detail-oriented with records
- I want to use my industry experience in a new way
Not sure? Take the free Transportation Inspector fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Wear high-visibility clothing at roadside
- Chock wheels before going under vehicles
- Stay clear of moving traffic and equipment
- Follow hazmat safety procedures