Commercial Vehicle Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
FREE commercial vehicle pre-trip inspection checklist with FMCSA compliance. Covers CDL requirements for brakes, tires, lights, coupling devices, and safety equipment. Multi-market standards for US FMCSA, UK DVSA, India MoRTH, Brazil CONTRAN, Mexico SCT, and Colombia MinTransporte. Download FREE PDF with 55+ inspection points.
- Industry: Logistics
- Frequency: Before Each Trip
- Estimated Time: 15-30 minutes
- Role: Operations Manager
- Total Items: 48
- Compliance: FMCSA 49 CFR 396.13, DOT CDL Requirements, CVSA Out-of-Service Criteria, UK DVSA O License, UK Drivers' Hours Rules
Engine Compartment & Cab
Under hood and cab interior inspection.
- Oil level adequate?
- Coolant level adequate?
- Power steering fluid adequate?
- Belts and hoses in good condition?
- Windshield free of cracks/obstructions?
- Wipers and washers working?
- Mirrors clean and properly adjusted?
- Horn working?
- All gauges and warning lights functional?
- Seat belt in working condition?
Lights & Electrical
All required lighting systems.
- Headlights working (high and low beam)?
- Taillights working?
- Brake lights working?
- Turn signals working (front and rear)?
- 4-way hazard flashers working?
- Clearance/marker lights working?
- Reflectors clean and visible?
- Trailer lights connected and working?
Brake System
Service and parking brake inspection.
- Air pressure builds to governor cut-out?
- Air leakage acceptable (3 psi/min single, 4 psi/min combo)?
- Low air pressure warning works (below 60 psi)?
- Spring brakes apply at 20-40 psi?
- Parking brake holds?
- Service brake pedal feel normal?
- Brake adjustment within limits?
- Brake hoses and lines secure, no leaks?
Tires & Wheels
Tire condition and wheel security.
- Tire pressure adequate (all tires)?
- Tread depth acceptable (4/32 steer, 2/32 other)?
- No cuts, bulges, or exposed cords?
- Valve stem caps present?
- Lug nuts present and tight?
- Hub seals not leaking?
- Dual tires same size and type?
Coupling Devices (Trailer)
Fifth wheel and trailer connections.
- Fifth wheel properly coupled and locked?
- Fifth wheel plate greased?
- Air lines connected and secure?
- Electrical cord connected and secured?
- Landing gear fully raised and secured?
- Kingpin not damaged or missing?
- Safety chains/cables connected (if required)?
Safety Equipment
Required safety equipment on board.
- Fire extinguisher charged and accessible?
- Three emergency triangles/flares?
- Spare fuses available?
- Accident reporting kit on board?
- First aid kit present?
- Vehicle registration current?
- Proof of insurance current?
- IFTA permit current (if required)?
Related Fleet Checklists
- Fleet Vehicle Monthly Inspection - FREE PDF
- Delivery Vehicle Inspection - FREE PDF
- Fleet DOT Compliance Audit - FREE PDF
- Vehicle Accident Investigation - FREE PDF
Why Use This Commercial Vehicle Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist?
This commercial vehicle pre-trip inspection checklist helps logistics teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for operations manager professionals, this checklist covers 48 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: before each trip.
Ensures compliance with FMCSA 49 CFR 396.13, DOT CDL Requirements, CVSA Out-of-Service Criteria, UK DVSA O License, UK Drivers' Hours Rules, India MoRTH CMV Rules, Brazil CONTRAN Resolution, Mexico NOM-012-SCT, Colombia Resolución 1565/2014. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Commercial Vehicle Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 48 inspection items across 6 sections: Engine Compartment & Cab, Lights & Electrical, Brake System, Tires & Wheels, Coupling Devices (Trailer), Safety Equipment. It is designed for logistics operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed before each trip. Each completion takes approximately 15-30 minutes.
Who should use this Commercial Vehicle Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Operations Manager professionals in the logistics 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.