Commercial Driver Pre-Trip Inspection
Complete this inspection before operating any commercial vehicle. Do not operate if critical defects are found.
- Industry: Transport & Logistics
- Frequency: Before each trip
- Estimated Time: 15-25 minutes
- Role: Commercial Driver / CDL Driver
- Total Items: 31
- Compliance: FMCSA 49 CFR 392.7, DOT Pre-Trip Requirements, CDL Inspection Standards
Engine Compartment
Inspect engine and fluid levels.
- Engine oil level adequate?
- Coolant level adequate?
- Power steering fluid level OK?
- Belts and hoses in good condition?
- No fluid leaks detected?
Cab & Controls
Verify cab safety and controls.
- All mirrors properly adjusted and clean?
- All gauges and warning lights functional?
- Horn working?
- Windshield wipers functional?
- Heater/defroster working?
- Seatbelt functional?
Brake System
Inspect brake components.
- Air pressure builds properly (100-125 psi)?
- Low air pressure warning works?
- Parking brake holds?
- Service brakes functional?
- Brake lines and hoses in good condition?
Tires & Wheels
Inspect tires and wheel components.
- All tires in good condition (no cuts, bulges)?
- Adequate tread depth (4/32" steer, 2/32" other)?
- Tire pressure adequate?
- All lug nuts present and tight?
- Wheel seals not leaking?
Lights & Reflectors
Verify all required lights.
- Headlights (high/low) working?
- Taillights working?
- Brake lights working?
- Turn signals working (all sides)?
- Clearance/marker lights working?
- All reflectors present and clean?
Initial Safety Assessment
Preliminary safety and compliance verification
- Work area safe and hazard-free?
- Required PPE available and in good condition?
- Emergency exits clear and marked?
- First aid supplies accessible?
Related Transport & Logistics Checklists
- Trailer Coupling Inspection
- Daily Vehicle Pre-Trip Inspection
- CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
- Post-Trip Vehicle Condition Report
- Forklift Daily Inspection Checklist
- Warehouse Receiving Inspection
- Hazmat Shipping Checklist
- Transport & Logistics DOT Pre-Trip Inspection
Related Fleet Management Checklists
- Daily Vehicle Pre-Trip Inspection - FREE Download
- CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist - FREE Download
- Post-Trip Vehicle Condition Report - FREE Download
- Trailer Coupling Inspection - FREE Download
Why Use This Commercial Driver Pre-Trip Inspection?
This commercial driver pre-trip inspection helps transport & logistics teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for commercial driver / cdl driver professionals, this checklist covers 31 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: before each trip.
Ensures compliance with FMCSA 49 CFR 392.7, DOT Pre-Trip Requirements, CDL Inspection Standards. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Commercial Driver Pre-Trip Inspection cover?
This checklist covers 31 inspection items across 6 sections: Engine Compartment, Cab & Controls, Brake System, Tires & Wheels, Lights & Reflectors, Initial Safety Assessment. It is designed for transport & logistics operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed before each trip. Each completion takes approximately 15-25 minutes.
Who should use this Commercial Driver Pre-Trip Inspection?
This checklist is designed for Commercial Driver / CDL Driver 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.