DOT Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Checklist (Commercial Driver)

This DOT pre-trip inspection checklist covers all items required by FMCSA 49 CFR 392.7 and 396.11 for commercial motor vehicle drivers before each trip. CDL drivers are legally required to inspect their vehicle before driving and complete a Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR). Failure to complete required pre-trip inspections can result in out-of-service orders, CSA violations, and civil liability. Complete this checklist every day before operating any commercial motor vehicle.

Industry: Transportation / Fleet Operations
Frequency: Before Every Trip (Daily Minimum)
Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
Role: CDL Driver / Fleet Driver / Transportation Safety Manager
Total Items: 32
Compliance: FMCSA 49 CFR 392.7 (Pre-Trip Inspection Requirements), FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11 (Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports), FMCSA 49 CFR 393 (Parts and Accessories), FMCSA CSA Safety Measurement System, DOT Out-of-Service Criteria (North American Standard)

Engine Compartment Pre-Trip

Check all under-hood fluid levels and belt/hose condition. Low oil or coolant can cause breakdown or engine failure during trip.

Engine oil level at full mark on dipstick?
Coolant level adequate in reservoir and no leaks?
Power steering fluid at correct level (if hydraulic)?
All drive belts intact with no fraying, cracks, or excessive wear?
All visible hoses intact with no bulging, cracking, or leaks?
No fuel leaks anywhere on vehicle (49 CFR 393.67)?

Brake System Inspection

Brake system inspection is the most critical part of DOT pre-trip. Brake defects are the #1 reason for out-of-service orders at roadside inspections.

Air brake pressure builds to governor cut-out (120-135 PSI) within 3 minutes?
Air pressure loss rate acceptable (under 2 PSI/min single, 3 PSI/min combination)?
Low air pressure warning activates at or above 60 PSI?
Parking/spring brake holds vehicle stationary with service brakes applied?
Brake stroke within adjustment limit on all visible chambers?
Hydraulic brake pedal firm - no spongy feel or excessive travel?
Gladhand connections and brake lines secure with no air leaks?

Tires, Wheels & Coupling

Tire and wheel inspection per FMCSA 393.75. Tire failures cause rollovers and serious accidents.

All tires free of cuts, bulges, or exposed fabric/cord?
Steer axle tires have minimum 4/32" tread depth in major grooves?
Drive and trailer axle tires have minimum 2/32" tread depth?
All tire inflation pressures within 10% of maximum placard inflation?
All visible lug nuts present and no signs of loose nuts (rust streaks, shine marks)?
Fifth wheel coupling properly locked - kingpin seated and jaw closed (tug test performed)?

Lights & Signals

All lights required by FMCSA 393.9-393.11 must be operational before each trip.

Both headlights functional on low and high beam?
All brake lights functional (test with someone watching while applying brakes)?
All turn signals functional (front, rear, trailer)?
All required marker, clearance, and identification lights functional?
Four-way hazard lights functional?
All reflectors and reflective tape in place and undamaged?

Steering, Mirrors, Wipers & Emergency Equipment

Verify steering control, visibility equipment, and required emergency gear.

Steering wheel free play within limit (max 2" for power, 10 degrees for manual)?
All required mirrors properly adjusted and unobstructed?
Windshield wipers functional on all speeds?
Three emergency reflective triangles or flares present and in serviceable condition?
Fire extinguisher properly mounted, charged, and accessible (min 5 B:C rating)?
Horn functional?
Previous DVIR reviewed - all previously noted defects repaired or certified as not affecting safe operation?

Related Automotive Checklists

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Why Use This DOT Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Checklist (Commercial Driver)?

This dot pre-trip vehicle inspection checklist (commercial driver) helps transportation / fleet operations teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for cdl driver / fleet driver / transportation safety manager professionals, this checklist covers 32 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: before every trip (daily minimum).

Ensures compliance with FMCSA 49 CFR 392.7 (Pre-Trip Inspection Requirements), FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11 (Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports), FMCSA 49 CFR 393 (Parts and Accessories), FMCSA CSA Safety Measurement System, DOT Out-of-Service Criteria (North American Standard), UK DVSA Daily Walkaround Check Requirements, India CMVR Rule 94 Commercial Vehicle Inspection. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the DOT Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Checklist (Commercial Driver) cover?

This checklist covers 32 inspection items across 5 sections: Engine Compartment Pre-Trip, Brake System Inspection, Tires, Wheels & Coupling, Lights & Signals, Steering, Mirrors, Wipers & Emergency Equipment. It is designed for transportation / fleet operations operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed before every trip (daily minimum). Each completion takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

Who should use this DOT Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Checklist (Commercial Driver)?

This checklist is designed for CDL Driver / Fleet Driver / Transportation Safety Manager professionals in the transportation / fleet operations industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.