DOT Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

What is a DOT pre-trip inspection? A DOT pre-trip inspection is a mandatory safety check required by FMCSA 49 CFR 396.13 before operating any commercial motor vehicle (CMV). Drivers must inspect their vehicle and be satisfied it is in safe operating condition. This checklist covers all DOT-required inspection points for trucks, tractors, trailers, and buses to ensure roadworthiness and regulatory compliance.

  • Industry: Transportation / Logistics
  • Frequency: Before each trip / Before each driving shift
  • Estimated Time: 15-30 minutes
  • Role: Commercial Driver / Owner-Operator
  • Total Items: 60
  • Compliance: FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11 (Driver Inspection Report), FMCSA 49 CFR 396.13 (Pre-Trip Inspection), FMCSR Part 393 (Vehicle Equipment), CDL Skills Test Standards, DVSA Standards (UK)

Engine Compartment

With engine off, check fluid levels and components.

  • Engine oil level OK?
  • Coolant level OK (check when cold)?
  • Power steering fluid level OK?
  • Belts and hoses in good condition?
  • No fluid leaks visible?
  • Wiring secure, no exposed wires?
  • Battery secure, terminals clean?

Cab & Controls

Check all cab controls, gauges, and safety equipment.

  • All gauges/warning lights functional?
  • Air pressure builds to governor cut-out?
  • Low air pressure warning activates (<60 PSI)?
  • All mirrors properly adjusted and clean?
  • Windshield clean, no cracks in wiper area?
  • Wipers and washers functional?
  • Horn functional?
  • Heater/defroster functional?
  • Seatbelt functional?
  • Fire extinguisher mounted, charged, accessible?
  • ...and 2 more items

Lights & Reflectors

All required lights must be functional and proper color.

  • Headlights functional (high/low beam)?
  • Taillights functional?
  • Brake lights functional?
  • Turn signals functional (front and rear)?
  • 4-way flashers functional?
  • Clearance/marker lights functional?
  • ID lights on cab/trailer functional?
  • All reflectors clean and in place?
  • License plate light functional?

Brake System

Critical safety system - verify all brake components.

  • Brake adjustment within limits (slack <1")?
  • Drums/rotors free of cracks, excessive wear?
  • Brake linings adequate thickness?
  • Air lines secure, no leaks, no damage?
  • Glad hands sealed, properly connected?
  • Spring brakes release when air applied?
  • Service brake test - vehicle stops properly?
  • Parking brake holds vehicle stationary?
  • Air leak rate acceptable (<3 PSI/min single, <4 PSI combo)?

Tires & Wheels

Inspect all tires and wheels for DOT compliance.

  • All tires properly inflated?
  • Tread depth adequate (4/32" steer, 2/32" other)?
  • No cuts, bulges, tread separation?
  • Duals same size/type, no mismatched?
  • All lug nuts present, tight, no rust trails?
  • Wheel seals not leaking?
  • Hub oil level visible (if applicable)?
  • Valve stems/caps present, not leaking?

Coupling Devices (Tractor-Trailer)

For combination vehicles - verify secure coupling.

  • Fifth wheel properly greased, no damage?
  • Kingpin locked in fifth wheel (tug test)?
  • Fifth wheel jaws closed around kingpin?
  • Release handle in locked position?
  • Trailer apron resting on fifth wheel?
  • Air and electrical lines properly connected?
  • Safety chains/cables properly attached?
  • Landing gear fully raised and secured?

Cargo Securement

Per FMCSA 49 CFR 393.100-136, cargo must be properly secured.

  • Cargo properly blocked, braced, secured?
  • Load properly balanced, not overweight?
  • Tie-downs adequate number and condition?
  • Tarps/covers secure (if required)?
  • Doors/gates closed and secured?
  • Tailgate/endgate properly secured?
  • Hazmat placards correct (if applicable)?

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Why Use This DOT Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist?

This dot pre-trip inspection checklist helps transportation / logistics teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for commercial driver / owner-operator professionals, this checklist covers 60 critical inspection points across 7 sections. Recommended frequency: before each trip / before each driving shift.

Ensures compliance with FMCSA 49 CFR 396.11 (Driver Inspection Report), FMCSA 49 CFR 396.13 (Pre-Trip Inspection), FMCSR Part 393 (Vehicle Equipment), CDL Skills Test Standards, DVSA Standards (UK), NOM-012-SCT-2-2017 (Mexico). Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the DOT Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 60 inspection items across 7 sections: Engine Compartment, Cab & Controls, Lights & Reflectors, Brake System, Tires & Wheels, Coupling Devices (Tractor-Trailer), Cargo Securement. It is designed for transportation / logistics operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed before each trip / before each driving shift. Each completion takes approximately 15-30 minutes.

Who should use this DOT Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Commercial Driver / Owner-Operator 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.

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