FMCSA Safety Ratings and BASIC Scores Explained
Understand every component of the FMCSA safety measurement system so you can stay audit-ready.
Safety Rating Categories
FMCSA assigns Satisfactory, Conditional, or Unsatisfactory ratings after compliance reviews.
Conditional ratings can limit freight contracts and insurance options.
CSA BASICs
Seven BASIC categories track violations: Unsafe Driving, HOS Compliance, Vehicle Maintenance, Controlled Substances/Alcohol, Hazardous Materials, Crash Indicator, and Driver Fitness.
Each BASIC uses time-weighted violations to benchmark carriers against peers.
Improving Scores
Implement pre-trip inspection programs, driver coaching, and document corrective actions for every violation.
Request DataQs reviews if inspections include incorrect information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are BASIC scores public?
Most BASIC measures are visible to the public except Crash Indicator and Hazardous Materials for small carriers.
How often are scores updated?
CSA scores refresh monthly using the latest 24 months of inspection and crash data.