CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

This DOT FMCSA 396.13 compliant CDL pre-trip inspection checklist is required for all Class A, B, and C commercial driver's license holders before operating a commercial motor vehicle. Per FMCSA 396.11, drivers must complete a Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) documenting the condition of service brakes, parking brake, steering mechanism, lighting devices, tires, horn, windshield wipers, rear vision mirrors, coupling devices, wheels/rims, and emergency equipment. Failure to complete pre-tr

  • Industry: Transport & Logistics
  • Frequency: Daily (before each trip)
  • Estimated Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Role: CDL Driver / Owner Operator
  • Total Items: 71
  • Compliance: DOT FMCSA 396.13, DOT FMCSA 396.11 DVIR, CSA 2010, DOT 393 (Cargo), Provincial NSC (Canada)

Engine Compartment

Inspect engine compartment components with engine off and parking brake set.

  • Oil level within acceptable range?
  • Coolant level adequate (DO NOT open hot radiator)?
  • Power steering fluid level adequate?
  • Belts in good condition (no cracks, fraying, or excessive wear)?
  • Hoses in good condition (no leaks, bulges, or damage)?
  • No visible fluid leaks under engine?
  • Wiring harness secure with no exposed wires?
  • Air filter indicator in acceptable range?

Cab & Controls

Inspect cab interior, gauges, and control systems.

  • All gauges functioning properly (oil, temp, fuel, air)?
  • Warning lights illuminate on start and turn off after?
  • All mirrors properly adjusted and clean?
  • Windshield clean with no cracks obstructing view?
  • Windshield wipers and washers functional?
  • Horn functioning properly?
  • Heater/defroster operational?
  • Seat belt in good condition and functional?
  • Emergency equipment accessible in cab (fire extinguisher, triangles)?

Lights & Signals

Verify all required lighting and signaling devices are operational.

  • Low beam headlights functional?
  • High beam headlights functional?
  • Front turn signals functional (left and right)?
  • Rear turn signals functional (left and right)?
  • Brake lights functional?
  • Tail lights functional?
  • Clearance/marker lights functional?
  • 4-way hazard flashers functional?
  • All reflectors clean and visible?
  • License plate light functional?

Tires & Wheels

Inspect all tires and wheels on tractor and trailer.

  • Steer tire tread depth adequate (min 4/32")?
  • Drive tire tread depth adequate (min 2/32")?
  • Trailer tire tread depth adequate (min 2/32")?
  • All tires properly inflated (no flat spots or bulges)?
  • No cuts, cracks, or visible tire damage?
  • All lug nuts present and tight?
  • All valve stems/caps present and not damaged?
  • Wheel rims free from cracks or damage?
  • Spare tire present and in serviceable condition (if equipped)?

Brakes

Inspect brake system including air brake components.

  • Air pressure builds from 85-100 psi within 45 seconds?
  • Governor cuts out between 120-145 psi?
  • Low air warning activates before 60 psi?
  • Air brake static leak test passed (no more than 3 psi drop in 1 min)?
  • Service brake pedal feels firm (not spongy)?
  • Parking brake holds vehicle stationary?
  • Slack adjusters within proper adjustment (less than 1" stroke)?
  • Brake drums, hoses, and chambers in good condition?
  • ABS light illuminates on start and turns off?

Coupling (Tractor-Trailer)

Inspect fifth wheel coupling and connections for tractor-trailer combinations.

  • Fifth wheel securely mounted to frame?
  • Fifth wheel jaws closed and locked around kingpin?
  • Kingpin not bent or damaged?
  • Release arm properly seated and locked?
  • Sliding fifth wheel locked in position (if equipped)?
  • Air lines connected, no leaks, gladhands sealed?
  • Electrical cord connected and secured?
  • Safety chains/cables crossed and secured (if required)?
  • Trailer air supply valve open (red knob pushed in)?

Trailer

Inspect trailer body, doors, and cargo securement.

  • Trailer body in good condition (no holes, damage)?
  • Trailer doors open/close properly and seal correctly?
  • Door locks/latches functional and secure?
  • All trailer lights functional (tail, brake, turn, marker)?
  • Reflective tape visible and in good condition?
  • Landing gear fully raised and crank handle secured?
  • Cargo properly secured (DOT 393 compliant)?
  • Cargo weight within legal limits and properly distributed?
  • HazMat placards displayed correctly (if applicable)?

Safety Equipment

Verify all required safety equipment is present and serviceable.

  • Fire extinguisher(s) fully charged and accessible?
  • Fire extinguisher inspection current?
  • Three emergency warning triangles present?
  • First aid kit present and stocked?
  • Spare fuses available (if applicable)?
  • Tire chains present and in good condition (if required)?
  • HazMat spill kit present (if hauling hazmat)?
  • Shipping papers/bills of lading accessible?

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Why Use This CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist?

This cdl pre-trip inspection checklist helps transport & logistics teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for cdl driver / owner operator professionals, this checklist covers 71 critical inspection points across 8 sections. Recommended frequency: daily (before each trip).

Ensures compliance with DOT FMCSA 396.13, DOT FMCSA 396.11 DVIR, CSA 2010, DOT 393 (Cargo), Provincial NSC (Canada). Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 71 inspection items across 8 sections: Engine Compartment, Cab & Controls, Lights & Signals, Tires & Wheels, Brakes, Coupling (Tractor-Trailer), Trailer, Safety Equipment. It is designed for transport & logistics operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed daily (before each trip). Each completion takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

Who should use this CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is designed for CDL Driver / Owner Operator professionals in the transport & 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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