What are the DOT windshield rules for commercial trucks?
Reviewed by the Skyview Auto Glass technical team — NWRD-, ASE- and DINITROL-trained technicians · Updated November 2026
Quick answer
Commercial trucks are held to the federal 49 CFR 393.60 standard, which limits cracks, chips, and discoloration in the driver’s viewing area. A truck can fail a DOT inspection for windshield damage that violates the rule. Read the rule text or ask your compliance officer for the exact limits.
What 49 CFR 393.60 covers
The federal standard 49 CFR 393.60 sets the requirements for truck glazing, including the windshield. In plain terms, it limits cracks, chips, and discoloration in the area of the glass that the driver looks through. Damage in that viewing area can put a truck out of compliance, and a cracked windshield is a common reason a truck fails a DOT inspection.
The rule is written for commercial motor vehicles, which is why a truck is held to a different standard than a passenger car. See our semi truck windshield replacement service.
Common myths about DOT windshield rules
A cracked windshield is fine as long as the driver can see.
The rule sets specific limits on cracks, chips, and discoloration in the viewing area, not just whether the driver feels they can see. Read the rule text for the exact limits.
The DOT rule is the same as the passenger-car standard.
Commercial trucks are held to 49 CFR 393.60, a federal standard that is stricter and more specific than the passenger-car rules in most states.
What the rule addresses
- Cracks in the driver’s viewing area of the windshield.
- Chips and star breaks that fall within the regulated zone.
- Discoloration or clouding that limits visibility.
- The condition of the glazing as part of a DOT inspection.
More questions about DOT windshield rules
Can a truck fail a DOT inspection for a cracked windshield?
Yes. A crack in the driver’s viewing area that violates 49 CFR 393.60 can fail a truck at a DOT inspection. Read the rule text or ask your compliance officer for the exact limits before you roll.
What is 49 CFR 393.60?
It is the federal standard for truck glazing. In plain terms it limits cracks, chips, and discoloration in the driver’s viewing area of the windshield. Commercial trucks are held to it during a DOT inspection.
Are truck windshield rules different from car rules?
Yes. Commercial trucks are held to the federal 49 CFR 393.60 standard, which is more specific than the passenger-car rules in most states. A truck can fail a DOT inspection for damage a passenger car would not be flagged for.
Related guides
More in Fleet and commercial
Need auto glass service?
Skyview Auto Glass has 191 shops across Michigan, Indiana and Illinois, each offering in-shop and mobile service. Call us or book a visit — same-day service is often available.