RS not required for traffic stop to conduct DOT inspection?

I don't think this really equates to a traffic stop. You're in a commercial vehicle and as such subject to inspection at any time.

I've had 2 like that in the last 7 years. One in Al and one in NC. Both times they said 'you weren't doing anything wrong, this is just a random inspection.'

Level 2 both times. At least the NC guy had the sense to follow me for 8 miles where we both knew there was a place to pull off before he stopped me. The one in Al pulled me on a 2 lane with barely enough room to get off the road.

 

It's called a random inspection to determine it the driver and the vehicle is compliant and following the rules of the USDOT whereas each state has its own authority to conduct routine inspections at weigh stations or roadside. As for the 4th amendment, it doesn't apply to a CMV driver or vehicle operating on public roads. You have limited rights as a CDL holder. You can refuse to comply and get put out of service, suspended or fines, then possible have to see a judge to get your licence reinstated in the state which the violation occurred.

 

49 U.S. Code § 31142 - Inspection of vehicles


Inspection To Be Accepted as Adequate in All States.—
A periodic inspection of a commercial motor vehicle under the Government standards prescribed under subsection (b) of this section or a program described in subsection (c)(1)(B) or (C) of this section that is being enforced shall be recognized as adequate in every State for the period of the inspection. This subsection does not prohibit a State from making random inspections of commercial motor vehicles.

link https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/49/31142

 

Like everyone else said your in CMV and have a CDL they can pull you over anytime. I got stopped in Ohio and the DOT guy said it was just a random inspection. He had to do so many every month and he picked me.