What item must a commercial driver have on hand during vehicle inspection?

A commercial driver must have valid registration and insurance documentation on hand during vehicle inspection because these documents are critical for legal operation on public roads. Valid registration confirms that the vehicle is authorized for use, while insurance documentation demonstrates that the vehicle is covered in case of accidents or incidents. Without these documents, a driver may face penalties, and the vehicle could be deemed unroadworthy, leading to operational delays and issues with law enforcement.

While maintenance tools and equipment may be beneficial for on-the-road repairs, they are not a mandatory requirement during vehicle inspection. Having a driver’s license and medical card is vital for the driver’s qualification, but the specific document requirements during vehicle inspection focus primarily on the vehicle’s legal status. Emergency contact information can be useful in various scenarios but is not a statutory requirement for inspections. Valid registration and insurance documentation are fundamental to ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, ensuring both the driver and the vehicle meet necessary legal standards.