Download our Apps and get 14 Days Free Trial
Detailed Pre-Trip Truck Inspection Checklist (DVIR)
Introduction
Pre-trip inspections are a critical component of commercial truck safety and compliance. This comprehensive Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) checklist helps drivers identify potential issues before they lead to equipment failure, accidents, or costly downtime. A thorough pre-trip inspection not only ensures regulatory compliance with FMCSA requirements 49 CFR §396.11 and §396.13, but also maximizes productivity and extends the service life of your commercial vehicle.
Daily pre-trip inspections are mandated by federal regulations for all commercial motor vehicles. This systematic inspection process allows drivers to methodically verify the condition of critical safety components, mechanical systems, and regulatory compliance items. By following this detailed DVIR checklist, drivers create a safer work environment, prevent roadside breakdowns, reduce CSA violations, maintain proper documentation for DOT audits, and provide a legal defense in case of accidents by demonstrating due diligence in vehicle maintenance.
Vehicle Information
Pro Tips for Effective Pre-Trip Inspections
- Develop a Consistent Routine: Follow the same inspection sequence every time to avoid missing critical components. Many professional drivers use a clockwise pattern starting at the driver's door and working their way around the entire vehicle.
- Schedule Adequate Time: A proper pre-trip inspection should take 30-45 minutes for a tractor-trailer combination. Rushing through the process increases the risk of missing safety concerns. Plan your departure time to include a thorough inspection.
- Use Multiple Senses: Don't just look at components - touch, listen, and smell too. Feel for loose parts, listen for air leaks, and be alert for unusual odors like burning oil or overheated brakes which can indicate problems not visible to the eye.
- Review Previous DVIRs: Always check the previous driver's inspection reports before starting your own inspection. Pay special attention to any defects that were noted and verify they've been properly repaired before signing off.
- Weather Considerations: Adapt your inspection in different weather conditions. In winter, check for ice buildup in brake components; in summer, be especially alert for tire issues as heat increases blowout risks.
Documentation & Credentials
Engine Compartment
Cab Interior
Fuel System
Lights & Reflectors
Brakes & Air System
Wheels, Tires & Suspension
Fifth Wheel & Coupling System
Trailer Components
Frame, Body & Cargo
Safety Equipment
Critical Pre-Trip Inspection Procedures
Follow these structured procedures for specific critical systems to ensure a thorough pre-trip inspection of your commercial truck.
Air Brake Check Procedure (7 Steps)
- Start engine and build air pressure to governed cut-out (120-140 psi)
- Turn off engine, release service brakes, and press brake pedal repeatedly to reduce air tank pressure
- Low air warning devices should activate at approximately 55-60 psi
- Continue to press brake pedal until spring brakes activate at approximately 20-40 psi
- Restart engine and build pressure to operational range
- With brakes released, check for air pressure drop (not more than 2 psi in 1 minute)
- Apply brake pedal, hold 1 minute, and check pressure drop (not more than 3 psi in 1 minute)
Fifth Wheel Coupling Inspection
- Check that fifth wheel is securely mounted to tractor frame
- Ensure fifth wheel plate is well greased
- Examine locking jaws or locking lever for proper closure
- Verify release handle is in the locked position
- Confirm no space exists between upper and lower fifth wheel
- Check that kingpin is properly engaged in fifth wheel jaws
- Ensure sliding fifth wheel pins are locked and release arm secure
- Tug test: Put transmission in low gear and gently pull forward against locked trailer brakes
Tire Inspection Method
- Check tire pressure with gauge when cold (record all readings)
- Inspect tread depth using tread depth gauge (4/32" minimum on steering tires, 2/32" minimum on all others)
- Look for cuts, bulges, and sidewall damage
- Check for uneven wear patterns (indicating alignment or suspension issues)
- Ensure valve stems are intact with caps in place
- Verify dual tires are not touching and no debris lodged between them
- Examine tires for signs of overheating (melted rubber, tar, or unusual wear)
- Inspect hub oil seal for leaks (sign of wheel bearing issues)
Cargo Securement Verification
- Ensure cargo weight is within legal limits and properly distributed
- Verify cargo is secured using appropriate devices (straps, chains, etc.)
- Check that securement devices are attached to proper anchor points
- Confirm adequate number of tie-downs based on cargo weight
- Inspect condition of all securement devices (no damage or excessive wear)
- Verify cargo doors, gates, and hatches are properly closed and locked
- Check for proper blocking and bracing to prevent cargo movement
- Ensure proper placarding if hauling hazardous materials
Inspection Progress
0% complete
Driver Certification
Driver Signature
I hereby certify that I have inspected this vehicle as required by 49 CFR 396.11/396.13 and that the above items have been inspected. Any defects or deficiencies identified have been properly reported.
Defects & Maintenance Notes
Maintenance Verification
To be completed by maintenance personnel when defects are reported and repairs are made.
Technician Signature
I certify that all critical repairs were performed satisfactorily and the vehicle is now safe to operate, or repairs were unnecessary for safe operation.
FMCSA Regulatory Requirements
Understanding the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements for driver vehicle inspection reports is essential for regulatory compliance and avoiding violations.
49 CFR §396.11 Requirements
- Drivers must prepare a written post-trip DVIR at the completion of each day's work
- Report must identify the vehicle and list any defects that could affect safety
- If no defects are discovered, report must state this fact
- Driver must sign the report
- Motor carriers must repair any defects listed on the DVIR
- Carriers must certify that repairs were made or were unnecessary
- DVIRs must be kept for at least 3 months from the date they were prepared
49 CFR §396.13 Requirements
- Before driving, a driver must review the last DVIR
- Driver must verify that required repairs have been completed
- Driver must sign to acknowledge they have reviewed the DVIR
- If defects were noted on the previous report, driver must sign that repairs were completed
- If no signature from mechanic is present, driver must not operate the vehicle
- The signed DVIR must be carried on the vehicle
DVIR Documentation Requirements
- Date of inspection
- Vehicle identification (unit number, VIN, license plate)
- Itemized list of components inspected
- Details of any defects or deficiencies found
- Driver signature and printed name
- Carrier name and location
- Mechanic signature for repair certification (when required)
- Driver review signature of previous DVIRs
FMCSA Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Fines of up to $1,000 per violation for DVIR regulations
- Negative impact on carrier CSA scores
- Potential "out of service" orders for serious violations
- Roadside inspection violations that can delay shipments
- Impact on carrier safety rating
- Increased liability risk in the event of an accident
- Increased insurance premiums due to compliance issues
Conclusion
Implementing this comprehensive Pre-Trip Truck Inspection Checklist (DVIR) is essential for maintaining safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. By systematically inspecting critical components before each trip, drivers can identify potential issues before they lead to equipment failure, accidents, or costly downtime. This proactive approach not only fulfills FMCSA requirements but also extends vehicle life, reduces maintenance costs, and improves overall fleet reliability.
For optimal inspection management, consider implementing the FleetRabbit APP to streamline your pre-trip inspections. The FleetRabbit platform allows digital documentation of DVIRs, provides real-time alerts for maintenance requirements, and creates comprehensive historical records for each vehicle. With the FleetRabbit software, fleet managers can easily track compliance, monitor maintenance patterns, and ensure all vehicles receive proper inspections.
Make pre-trip inspections an integral part of your fleet management protocols with the FleetRabbit software's comprehensive inspection management solution. Whether for regulatory compliance, warranty maintenance, or operational safety, this digital approach significantly improves inspection thoroughness and documentation while reducing administrative burden on drivers and maintenance personnel.
© 2025 Detailed Pre-Trip Truck Inspection Checklist (DVIR) | Developed by FleetRabbit | Contact us at support@fleetrabbit.com for customized inspection solutions.