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Federal Highway Administration
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Washington, DC 20590
202-366-4000


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Bridges & Structures

 

National Bridge Inspection Standards

The National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) are the standards established over the safety inspections of highway bridges on public roads throughout the United States. The U.S. Congress originally required the Secretary of Transportation to establish these standards in 1968. The original NBIS was published in 1971, creating our Nation's first nationally coordinated bridge inspection program.

Periodic and thorough inspections of our Nation's bridges are necessary to maintain safe bridge operation and prevent structural and functional failures. In addition, data on the condition and operation of our Nation's bridges is necessary for bridge owners to make informed investment decisions as part of an asset management program. Congress declared in MAP-21 (Public Law 112-141, 126 Stat. 405) that it is in the vital interest of the United States to inventory, inspect, and improve the condition of the Nation's highway bridges.

Updates to the standards have been made over the years, most recently in 2022. These updates recognize technological advancements, research results, and experience in administering the inspection program.

Superseded NBIS

Updated: 02/28/2024
Federal Highway Administration | 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE | Washington, DC 20590 | 202-366-4000