387.7F FMCSR Citation: What Drivers Need to Know

No. Across our inspection records, 387.7F resulted in an out-of-service order in only 145 out of 2,342 all-time citations—a 6.2% OOS rate. This is significantly lower than the 31.4% average OOS rate across all FMCSR codes, meaning this violation is rarely severe enough to ground your vehicle immediately. However, the rate varies sharply by state: Texas shows a 29.2% OOS rate, while most other states cluster near 0%. If you were cited in Texas, monitor for reinspection closely.

First, review the inspection report for the exact violation description. Our data shows 387.7F often co-occurs with language proficiency (391.11B2-Z, 124 shared inspections in the last 90 days) and lamp defects (393.9, 44 shared inspections). Check that all required documentation is complete and legible, especially driver qualifications and medical certificates. If the citation involves missing or illegible records, gather originals immediately. Request a copy of the inspection notes and photograph your compliance status. Schedule any required repairs within 7 days if equipment is involved.

387.7F is less severe than the average FMCSR code. Its 6.2% OOS rate trails far behind peer codes in the General/Admin category—for example, 390.19B2-BIENNIAL has a 0.2% OOS rate, and most marking violations like 390.21(a) sit at 0.0%. By rank, 387.7F is #502 out of 3,036 FMCSR codes by citation volume, placing it outside the top 200 most-cited violations. This suggests enforcement is relatively focused and the violation is not widespread across the industry.

Over the last 180 days, 387.7F citations cluster in three states: Texas leads with 240 citations, Michigan follows with 46, and Washington has 21. The US border region accounts for 388 citations (out of 703 over that period), indicating this code is heavily enforced in cross-border operations. If you operate primarily in Texas or near the US border, familiarize yourself with the specific documentation or record-keeping requirements tied to this code.

Yes, trend data shows rising enforcement over the last year. In April 2025, 387.7F had 46 citations; by March 2026, that climbed to 142—a threefold increase. The 12-month average sits at 1,537 citations compared to 2,342 all-time, meaning roughly two-thirds of all 387.7F citations occurred in the past year. This acceleration suggests increased focus or awareness of the requirement. Stay alert to any FMCSA guidance updates or state-level changes that might be driving this trend.

Yes, you can file a DataQ challenge if you believe the citation is inaccurate. The FMCSA DataQs system lets you correct roadside inspection records if the violation was miscoded, the finding was factually wrong, or required documents were actually present but not shown to the inspector. Since 387.7F often involves documentation or record-keeping, photograph evidence (medical certificates, driver qualifications, logbooks) strengthens your case. Submit your DataQ within 90 days; the FMCSA has 30 days to respond. Consult your company's safety manager for the formal submission process.

Transportation and Cargo Solutions S de RL de CV (USDOT 779973) leads with 16 all-time citations for 387.7F, followed by two carriers tied at 15 each: Transportes Riol SA de CV (USDOT 4195933) and Tractoremolques AMSA SA de CV (USDOT 1203373). The top 10 list is dominated by small operators and owner-operators, suggesting 387.7F violations cluster among carriers with limited compliance infrastructure. If you drive for a smaller outfit, double-check your carrier's record-keeping practices and request training if gaps exist.

In the last 90 days, 325 citations for 387.7F were issued. The most common co-occurring violations were language proficiency requirements (391.11B2-Z, 124 inspections) and another administrative code (392.9AA1, 110 inspections). This pattern suggests 387.7F is often discovered during multi-violation inspections, typically when drivers lack required documentation or language certification. If you've been cited once, expect scrutiny of related areas. Verify your English proficiency documentation and all required certifications are current and accessible.