CSA Scores, Explained
What CSA measures. How the seven BASICs work. What is public. How percentiles are calculated and updated.
Quick overview
CSA is FMCSA’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability program. The Safety Measurement System groups crashes and inspection results into BASICs and ranks carriers by percentile within peer groups. SMS updates monthly.
What CSA Scores and SMS Measure
The SMS analyzes roadside inspections and State-reported crashes, then groups violations into seven BASICs: Unsafe Driving, Crash Indicator, Hours of Service Compliance, Vehicle Maintenance, Controlled Substances and Alcohol, Driver Fitness, and HM Compliance for hazmat carriers.
How FMCSA Calculates CSA Percentiles
Each violation has a severity weight and a time weight. Events in the last 6 months count the most, 6–12 months count less, and 12–24 months the least. SMS normalizes by exposure and ranks carriers against similar peers to produce a percentile for each BASIC.
What CSA Score Information Is Public
The public SMS site shows percentile ranks for five BASICs. Crash Indicator and HM Compliance are not public. Anyone can view carrier snapshots, inspections, and out-of-service rates in SAFER.
Who Uses CSA Scores and Why They Matter
Enforcement uses CSA to prioritize interventions. Brokers and insurers also review CSA indicators through monitoring tools and carrier portals, which can affect load opportunities and underwriting decisions. Strong driver file management supports better results. See Driver Qualification Files.
CSA Score Updates and Methodology
SMS refreshes monthly and uses a two-year window with time and severity weights. FMCSA publishes the SMS Methodology and provides a Prioritization Preview so carriers can see how upcoming changes may affect results.
Fixing CSA Data Errors Through DataQs
If a crash or inspection record looks wrong, use DataQs to request a review with supporting evidence. Data quality matters because it influences BASIC percentiles and intervention priority. Learn how to prepare for reviews on our Audit Preparation page.
CSA Score Monitoring and Monthly Summaries
Get a short report after each SMS refresh with movement, context, and a simple action list to stay compliant and improve your CSA results.
CSA Score FAQs
How often are CSA scores updated?
FMCSA’s Safety Measurement System updates monthly and uses a rolling 24-month window of inspections and State-reported crashes.
Are all CSA BASICs public?
No. The public can view percentile scores for five BASICs. Crash Indicator and HM Compliance are not public.
Can carriers improve their CSA score?
Yes. Reduce violations with coaching, maintenance, and policy enforcement. Use DataQs to correct inaccurate records when you have evidence.