Team #312Truck
Cracks, chips, and improper tinting can all fail a DOT inspection. Here's what fleet managers need to know about truck glass compliance—and how to stay inspection-ready.
Whether you’re running a single commercial truck or an entire fleet, DOT compliance isn’t optional—it’s the foundation of legal operation. And while most managers focus on emissions, brakes, and lighting, there’s one area that often slips through the cracks: windshield and window glass.
At 312 Truck Body Repair & Painting, we help fleet owners stay road-legal by offering compliance-first truck glass repair and replacement. Below, we break down the key DOT regulations, the most common disqualifying issues, and how to make sure your trucks pass inspection the first time.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR):
Key visibility areas (aka “critical zones”) are especially scrutinized during inspections. A small chip in the wrong spot can put a vehicle out of service.
DOT inspectors look for:
Even a worn-out wiper blade that can’t clear rain properly may cause a violation during an inspection.
DOT violations don’t just result in hefty fines—they can take trucks out of service, stall deliveries, and reduce your CSA scores. For fleet managers, even a few non-compliant vehicles can damage your company’s safety rating and reputation.
Use this checklist before your next scheduled inspection:
✅ No cracks larger than ¾ inch in viewing area
✅ No chips in the sweep area of the wipers
✅ All windows allow 70%+ light through
✅ Windshield is securely mounted with no gaps in the seal
✅ Wiper blades are in good condition
✅ No hazing, scratches, or interior fogging
✅ No stickers or decals obstructing view
Bonus: Keep a log of regular glass inspections to document your fleet’s compliance history.
Our team doesn’t just swap glass—we ensure every replacement meets DOT and FMCSR standards, including:
We also offer fast turnaround times to reduce downtime and keep your fleet running efficiently.
DOT regulations might seem like a hassle, but with the right truck glass service partner, staying compliant is simple. Don’t risk delays, citations, or downtime.Get a quote from 312 Truck Body Repair today—and make glass compliance one less thing to worry about.
"Although we handle minor collision work in-house, when it comes to paint, 312 Truck is our go-to. Their pricing is among the most competitive in the Chicagoland area—often half of what others charge while still delivering high-quality results. They’ve been a valuable extension of our team."
"Our business turns old shipping containers into mobile bars and quick-serve restaurants—we needed a paint partner who understands precision. 312 Truck’s marine-grade coatings match our brand colors with a flawless finish every time. Their attention to detail exceeds our clients' high expectations."
"Every off-season, we turn to 312 to refresh our fleet. They sandblast and repaint dozens of frames, trailers, and specialty paving equipment so everything is ready to hit the road again. Their speed and consistency have never let us down, and the quality of work speaks for itself."
"Keeping our fleet in top shape is a priority, and we need a partner that operates with speed and efficiency. 312 Truck has been instrumental in helping maintain our delivery vehicles—everything from mechanical work to heavy collision and cosmetic repairs for hundreds of our units every year."
"For over 20 years, the Patel family [312's owners] has worked alongside Enterprise Rentals, managing thousands of repairs of all sizes. Their deep knowledge of the collision industry—especially fleet-specific repairs—makes them a trusted resource in keeping our vehicles road-ready."
"Our garbage trucks endure a lot of wear and tear—from accident damage to rust buildup. 312 Truck handles everything from structural repairs to repainting and de-branding before resale. Their expertise in durable, wear-resistant coatings keeps our fleet looking sharp against the elements."
"312 Truck has been a reliable partner for our vehicle maintenance centers in the Midwest. Their team has helped with everything from Promaster vans to full-size trailers. One of the key reasons we continue to trust them is their excellent communication—keeping us informed throughout."
