DOT Annual Vehicle Inspection - FREE PDF
Annual DOT vehicle inspection as required by FMCSA 396.17. Must be performed by qualified inspector.
- Industry: Trucking / Transportation
- Frequency: Annual
- Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
- Role: Qualified DOT Inspector
- Total Items: 26
- Compliance: FMCSA 396.17, FMCSA 396.19, Appendix G to Part 396
Pre-Inspection Verification
Initial verification before conducting vehicle inspection.
- Registration and insurance documents present?
- Previous DVIR reviewed?
- Prior defects repaired and signed off?
Exterior Inspection
Walk-around inspection of vehicle exterior and safety equipment.
- Body/cab condition acceptable?
- All lights functioning (headlights, turn signals, brake, clearance)?
- Mirrors properly adjusted and undamaged?
- Tires properly inflated, adequate tread?
- Wheels and lug nuts secure?
Engine Compartment
Under-hood inspection of engine and fluid levels.
- Engine oil level adequate?
- Coolant level adequate?
- Belts and hoses in good condition?
- No fluid leaks observed?
Brake System
Brake system inspection and verification.
- Service brakes operating properly?
- Parking brake holds vehicle?
- Air pressure builds adequately (air brakes)?
- No air leaks detected (air brakes)?
Cab Interior & Safety Equipment
Cab condition and required safety equipment verification.
- All gauges and warning lights functioning?
- Horn functioning?
- Windshield wipers/washers working?
- Seatbelt present and functional?
- Fire extinguisher present and charged?
- Emergency triangles/flares present?
Defects and Summary
Document any defects and overall vehicle condition.
- Any defects found during inspection?
- Vehicle safe to operate?
- Defect Description
- Driver Signature/Verification
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Why Use This DOT Annual Vehicle Inspection?
This dot annual vehicle inspection helps trucking / transportation teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for qualified dot inspector professionals, this checklist covers 26 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: annual.
Ensures compliance with FMCSA 396.17, FMCSA 396.19, Appendix G to Part 396. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the DOT Annual Vehicle Inspection cover?
This checklist covers 26 inspection items across 6 sections: Pre-Inspection Verification, Exterior Inspection, Engine Compartment, Brake System, Cab Interior & Safety Equipment, Defects and Summary. It is designed for trucking / transportation operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed annual. Each completion takes approximately 1-2 hours.
Who should use this DOT Annual Vehicle Inspection?
This checklist is designed for Qualified DOT Inspector professionals in the trucking / transportation 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.