Transit Bus Pre-Trip Inspection - FREE PDF

Pre-trip inspection for public transit buses including passenger safety systems, ADA accessibility equipment, and fare systems.

  • Industry: Public Transit
  • Frequency: Before each shift
  • Estimated Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Role: Transit Bus Operator
  • Total Items: 26
  • Compliance: FTA, ADA, FMCSA, State DOT

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 Transit Bus Pre-Trip Inspection?

This transit bus pre-trip inspection helps public transit teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for transit bus operator professionals, this checklist covers 26 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: before each shift.

Ensures compliance with FTA, ADA, FMCSA, State DOT. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Transit Bus Pre-Trip 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 public transit operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed before each shift. Each completion takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

Who should use this Transit Bus Pre-Trip Inspection?

This checklist is designed for Transit Bus Operator professionals in the public transit 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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