Commercial Vehicle Pre-Trip Inspection (FMCSA)
This commercial vehicle pre-trip inspection checklist ensures compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations under 49 CFR 392.7 and 396.11 for CDL holders.
- Industry: Transportation & Logistics
- Frequency: Before Each Trip
- Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
- Role: CDL Driver / Fleet Manager
- Total Items: 55
- Compliance: FMCSA 49 CFR 392.7, FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11, FMCSA 49 CFR 396.13, DOT Regulations
Engine Compartment
Under-hood inspection
- Oil level adequate
- Coolant level adequate
- Power steering fluid level adequate
- Windshield washer fluid adequate
- Belts and hoses in good condition
- No fluid leaks observed
- Battery secure and connections clean
Cab & Controls
Driver compartment inspection
- All gauges and warning lights functional
- Windshield clean, no cracks obstructing view
- Mirrors clean and properly adjusted
- Windshield wipers operational
- Horn operational
- Heater/defroster working
- Seatbelt functional
- Steering wheel play within limits (< 2 inches)
Lights & Electrical
All lighting systems
- Headlights working (high/low beam)
- Tail lights working
- Brake lights working
- Turn signals working (all)
- Hazard/4-way flashers working
- Clearance/marker lights working
- Reflectors clean and visible
Brake System
Air brake and brake component inspection
- Air pressure builds to governor cut-out (100-125 psi)
- Low air pressure warning activates (60 psi)
- Applied brake test passed
- Parking brake holds vehicle
- Brake lines/hoses secure, no leaks
- Slack adjusters within limits
- Brake drums/linings acceptable
Tires & Wheels
Tire and wheel inspection
- Tire pressure adequate (all tires)
- Tire tread depth adequate (4/32 steer, 2/32 others)
- No cuts, bulges, or tire damage
- All lug nuts present and secure
- No wheel seal leaks
- Spacers in good condition (if applicable)
Trailer & Coupling
Trailer and coupling device inspection
- Fifth wheel locked and secure
- Kingpin properly engaged
- Safety chains/cables connected (if applicable)
- Air lines properly connected
- Electrical connection secure
- Landing gear fully raised
- All trailer lights working
- Trailer brakes working
Safety Equipment & Documentation
Required safety items
- Fire extinguisher charged and accessible
- 3 emergency warning triangles present
- Spare fuses (if applicable)
- Registration current
- Insurance card present
- Required permits current
- Medical examiner's certificate current
Driver Certification
Final verification and sign-off
- Defects found during inspection
- Defect details (if any)
- Vehicle is safe to operate
- Previous DVIR reviewed
- Driver Signature
Related Logistics Checklists
- UK Workplace Transport Safety Checklist
- DOT Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
- UK Workplace Transport Safety Checklist
- Warehouse Loading Dock Safety Inspection Checklist
- Freight Shipment Inspection Checklist
- Warehouse Forklift Pre-Operation Inspection Checklist
- Warehouse Receiving Inspection Checklist
Related Vehicle Safety Checklists
- DOT Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist - FREE Download
- UK Workplace Transport Safety Checklist - FREE Download
Why Use This Commercial Vehicle Pre-Trip Inspection (FMCSA)?
This commercial vehicle pre-trip inspection (fmcsa) helps transportation & logistics teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for cdl driver / fleet manager professionals, this checklist covers 55 critical inspection points across 8 sections. Recommended frequency: before each trip.
Ensures compliance with FMCSA 49 CFR 392.7, FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11, FMCSA 49 CFR 396.13, DOT Regulations. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Commercial Vehicle Pre-Trip Inspection (FMCSA) cover?
This checklist covers 55 inspection items across 8 sections: Engine Compartment, Cab & Controls, Lights & Electrical, Brake System, Tires & Wheels, Trailer & Coupling, Safety Equipment & Documentation, Driver Certification. It is designed for transportation & logistics operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed before each trip. Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Who should use this Commercial Vehicle Pre-Trip Inspection (FMCSA)?
This checklist is designed for CDL Driver / Fleet Manager professionals in the transportation & 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.