FMCSR 393.13(a): Retro-reflective Sheeting Citations & Consequences

No. Across 13 million inspections, our records show that 393.13(a) citations have a 0.0% out-of-service rate—all 495 all-time citations in our database resulted in violations recorded, but zero trucks were placed out of service. This code is not eligible for immediate OOS enforcement. However, the national average OOS rate across all FMCSR codes is 31.4%, so you're looking at a citation rather than roadside removal.

This violation carries a CSA severity weight of 3, which is on the lower end of the violation scale. The points accumulate over 30 days; every citation within a rolling 30-day window counts toward your BASIC score in the Vehicle Maintenance category. Unlike out-of-service violations, this won't trigger immediate disqualification, but multiple citations in a short period will affect your CSA percentile and your carrier's safety rating.

Immediate steps:

1. Document the citation. Get the inspector's badge number, inspection report number, and photos of what was cited.
2. Inform your carrier or fleet manager immediately—they need this for compliance records and CSA tracking.
3. Schedule repairs. Retro-reflective sheeting and reflex reflectors are wear items; a qualified technician should inspect and replace as needed.
4. Request a reinspection if you dispute the finding or once repairs are complete.
5. Keep records of all repairs and maintenance for your next roadside check.

It's among the least-cited reflector violations we track. Our inspection data shows 393.13(a) ranks #927 of 3,036 FMCSR codes by citation volume, with 495 all-time citations. By contrast, the related code 393.11 (Lighting devices/reflectors) has 179,734 citations with a 1.8% OOS rate, and 393.9(a) (Inoperable required lamps) has 660,737 citations with a 15.4% OOS rate. So while reflector violations exist, 393.13(a) is genuinely rare in enforcement.

Yes, you can challenge any roadside inspection finding through the DataQs RDR (Roadside Detailed Report) system. You have 90 days from the inspection date to file. Equipment-based violations like missing sheeting are contestable if you have documentation that the equipment was installed and functioning at the time of inspection—photos, repair receipts, or maintenance logs help. Submit evidence directly through your carrier's FMCSA portal or DataQs. Inspection errors do get overturned.

Our 13 million inspection records show only 495 all-time citations for this code across the entire US, and we recorded zero citations in the last 90 days and zero in the last 12 months. This suggests enforcement of 393.13(a) is extremely sparse or has declined significantly. Top carriers cited historically include Gonzalez Pallets Inc (4 citations) and Servicios de Auto Fletes Internacionales (3 citations), but these represent isolated cases, not a trend.

Medium priority. While the 0.0% OOS rate means you won't be pulled off the road immediately, retro-reflective sheeting serves a critical safety function—visibility in low-light and nighttime conditions. Inspectors cite this code rarely, which suggests either widespread compliance or infrequent checking. However, repeated violations will accumulate CSA points. Given zero citations in the last 12 months, fix it within 30 days and keep proof of the repair; a future inspection is unlikely to be a factor.

The violation records with the carrier's USDOT number and safety profile, not the driver's personal record. Your carrier's Vehicle Maintenance BASIC category will reflect it in their CSA score. As a driver, the citation appears on the inspection file but does not directly affect your personal driving record or HOS eligibility. However, your carrier may impose internal consequences or retraining if citations are frequent.