FMCSR 393.68: CNG Fuel Container Violations Q&A

No. Across our inspection records, 393.68 citations have resulted in zero out-of-service placements. Our database shows a 0.0% OOS rate for this code out of 4 all-time citations. This is significantly lower than the national average across all FMCSR codes, which sits at 31.4%. However, being cited doesn't mean your truck is roadworthy—get the CNG fuel container inspected and corrected promptly to avoid cascade violations.

This is a relatively uncommon citation. In our 13 million+ inspection records, 393.68 ranks #2480 out of 3,036 FMCSR codes by citation volume. For context, similar vehicle maintenance violations show much higher enforcement: inoperable required lamps (393.9) appear 660,737 times with a 15.4% OOS rate, and inspection/repair/maintenance violations (396.3) appear 236,919 times with a 45.3% OOS rate. The rarity of 393.68 citations suggests focused enforcement on CNG-equipped fleets.

Take these steps immediately: 1) Have a certified technician inspect the CNG fuel container for conformance to regulations. 2) Document the inspection and any repairs in your maintenance records. 3) Request a re-inspection from the enforcement officer or submit proof of correction through your carrier's compliance system. 4) Check related fuel system components to prevent co-cited violations. 5) Contact your fleet manager with photos and repair receipts to support any DataQs challenge if the citation is in error.

Yes. DataQs (the FMCSA's online challenge system) allows you to contest inspection findings within 30 days. Since 393.68 is equipment-based, a valid dispute requires documented evidence that the CNG fuel container actually conforms to regulations—such as manufacturer specs, recent certification, or inspection reports showing compliance. Submit clear documentation showing the container met regulatory standards at the time of citation. Keep copies of all correspondence and responses from FMCSA.

Our data shows only 4 citations for 393.68 across all states in our entire database. The enforcement is so sparse that no single state appears as a concentration point. This reflects that most carriers don't operate CNG vehicles, or those that do maintain fuel containers in compliance. If you drive CNG, the risk is minimal based on historical citation patterns, but compliance is essential since violations are treated seriously when they do occur.

Moderate urgency. While 393.68 doesn't trigger out-of-service status automatically, CNG fuel containers are safety-critical. Across our 13 million records, we found only 1 citation in the last 12 months and zero in the last 90 days, indicating rare enforcement. However, non-conforming containers pose real safety risk. Get corrective action completed within 14 days if possible, and don't operate the vehicle on public roads until certified compliant. Contact your carrier's safety team immediately.

Our records show 393.68 citations on INTL (International) trucks in 2 cases, KW (Kenworth) in 1 case, and UTIL (Utility) in 1 case. The small sample size—just 4 total citations—means patterns are limited. INTL vehicles appear twice as often, but this likely reflects fleet size and CNG adoption rather than a reliability issue. If you drive a CNG-equipped truck, regardless of make, ensure the fuel container has current certification and regular inspections.

Both. FMCSA enforcement citations follow the carrier's USDOT number and appear in the carrier's Safety Management Analysis (CSA) record. The driver's record is also affected. In our database, the four carriers cited for 393.68 each had one citation—SERVICIO DE TRANSPORTE INTERNACIONAL Y LOCAL SA DE CV (USDOT 557341), MARTIN FRANCISCO CAMPOS PEREZ (USDOT 643366), SHF TRUCKING LLC (USDOT 2385684), and 6 OAKS CONSTRUCTION INC (USDOT 3813698). Work with your fleet safety manager to resolve it quickly and prevent impact to company ratings.