The DOT Accident Register

Last updated: October 20, 2026 · Sources: 49 CFR 390.5, 390.15, 382.303, 385.311, 387.7

Quick answer: Every motor carrier keeps an accident register for 3 years after each accident (49 CFR 390.15(b)). For FMCSA, an accident is an occurrence involving a CMV on a highway that causes a fatality, an injury treated away from the scene, or disabling damage with a tow-away (390.5). The register is an area the new entrant safety audit reviews (385.311(d)).

What counts as an accident (390.5)

An occurrence involving a CMV on a highway in interstate or intrastate commerce that results in: - a fatality; - bodily injury to a person who gets medical treatment away from the scene immediately; or - one or more vehicles with disabling damage that are towed from the scene.

Occurrences involving only boarding or alighting from a stationary vehicle, or only loading or unloading cargo, are not accidents.

What the register must include (390.15(b))

For each accident: 1. Date 2. City or town (or nearest) and state 3. Driver name 4. Number of injuries 5. Number of fatalities 6. Whether hazardous materials were released (other than fuel from the vehicle's own tanks) 7. Copies of all accident reports required by states, other government bodies or insurers

Keep it 3 years after the date of each accident.

No accidents yet?

The rule requires a register of accidents; with none, there's nothing to list. Keeping an empty register ready is good practice (not a separate rule) because auditors review this area (385.311(d)).

After an accident: testing time limits

If post-accident testing is required, an alcohol test not given within 2 hours needs a written explanation; stop trying after 8 hours. For drugs, the limit is 32 hours (382.303(d)). See our drug and alcohol program guide for when a test is required.

In-cab accident kit (suggested)

• Insurance card and claims phone number (the MCS-90 copy stays at your principal place of business, 387.7(d))
• Your DER and C/TPA phone numbers and the post-accident testing table
• A camera or phone, an accident report form, and reflective triangles

Keep the whole setup in one place

The Carrier Launch Kit New Authority: First 90 Days kit includes an accident register tab in the Excel workbook and a post-accident testing table. Get the kit → · Free First 30 Days Checklist

FAQ

How long do I keep the accident register? 3 years after the date of each accident (49 CFR 390.15(b)).

Is a fender-bender with no tow an accident? Not under 390.5, unless there is a fatality or an injury treated away from the scene. Disabling damage must involve a tow-away.

Do I need an accident register if I've never had an accident? There's nothing to list, but keeping a register ready is good practice because auditors review this area.

Is a loading-dock injury an accident? Occurrences involving only loading or unloading cargo are not accidents under 390.5.

---

Educational only, not legal advice. Carrier Launch Kit is not affiliated with FMCSA or USDOT. Check the current rule in the eCFR.

Educational only, not legal advice. Affiliate disclosure.