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DVIR - Driver Vehicle Inspection Report
Introduction to DVIR Requirements
The Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) is a critical safety document mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. This daily inspection checklist helps identify safety defects or mechanical issues before they lead to roadside breakdowns, accidents, or FMCSA violations. Completing a thorough DVIR is not just a regulatory requirement—it's an essential practice for maintaining fleet safety, reliability, and compliance.
According to 49 CFR §396.11, every driver must prepare a written report at the completion of each day's work on each vehicle operated. This DVIR checklist aligns with FMCSA requirements, ensuring that all safety-critical components are properly inspected, documented, and addressed. Properly documented DVIRs provide legal protection, support preventative maintenance programs, and are essential documents during roadside inspections or DOT audits.
Vehicle Information
Pro Tips for FMCSA-Compliant DVIRs
- Be Thorough and Accurate: A properly completed DVIR is your legal protection during roadside inspections. Document all defects, no matter how minor, to demonstrate due diligence and regulatory compliance.
- Keep Records Organized: Per 49 CFR §396.11, carriers must maintain DVIR records for at least 3 months from the date the written report was prepared. Organize these systematically for easy retrieval during DOT audits.
- Know What's Required: The FMCSA requires inspection of service brakes, parking brake, steering mechanism, lighting devices, reflectors, tires, horn, windshield wipers, mirrors, coupling devices, wheels and rims, and emergency equipment at minimum.
- Complete Both Pre and Post-Trip: While many drivers focus on post-trip reports, pre-trip inspections are equally important to verify repairs and ensure vehicle safety before operation.
Engine Compartment
Brake System
Coupling Devices
Lighting & Signals
Wheels & Tires
Cab Interior/Controls
Emergency Equipment
Trailer Inspection
Required Documentation
DVIR Inspection Procedures
Following standardized inspection procedures ensures compliance with FMCSA regulations and maintains consistency across your fleet. These procedures align with 49 CFR §396.11 requirements and industry best practices.
Pre-Trip Inspection Protocol
- Review previous DVIR to verify repairs were completed
- Conduct systematic exterior walkaround inspection
- Check under hood components before starting engine
- Perform operational checks after engine start-up
- Test air brake system using 7-step air brake check
- Document any defects requiring attention
Post-Trip Inspection Protocol
- Perform complete vehicle inspection at end of workday
- Document all defects found during operation
- Mark safety-critical defects as "out of service" issues
- Sign and submit DVIR to motor carrier
- Retain copy of DVIR for your records
- Verify carrier acknowledgment of defects
Air Brake Check Procedure
- Test air leakage rate (engine off, brakes applied)
- Test low pressure warning device activation
- Check spring brake activation at low pressure
- Ensure air pressure build-up time meets standards
- Test service brake operation and feel
- Verify parking brake and trailer brake connection
DVIR Documentation Process
- Complete all required DVIR fields with accurate information
- Note "No Defects" if vehicle is defect-free
- Describe defects with specific details
- Sign and certify the inspection report
- Submit to carrier at end of work period
- Ensure carrier signature for defect certification
Inspection Progress
0% complete
Driver Certification
Mechanic/Maintenance Certification
Defects & Maintenance Notes
FMCSA Compliance Guidelines
These guidelines summarize key FMCSA requirements regarding Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports. Understanding these regulations ensures your compliance during roadside inspections and DOT audits.
§396.11 Requirements
- Every driver must prepare a written DVIR at day's end
- Reports must identify the vehicle and list defects
- If no defects found, report must state "No Defects"
- Driver must sign the report
- Carriers must retain reports for minimum 3 months
§396.13 Pre-Trip Requirements
- Drivers must be satisfied vehicle is in safe condition
- Review and sign previous driver's DVIR
- Verify repairs were made for reported defects
- Report must be carried in the vehicle during operation
- Review includes all FMCSA-required components
§396.3 Maintenance Requirements
- Vehicles must be systematically inspected and maintained
- All parts and accessories must be in safe condition
- Lubrication and preventive maintenance required
- Records must document maintenance activities
- Records retained while in service plus 6 months
DVIR Exceptions/Special Cases
- Driveaway-towaway operations have modified requirements
- Private motor carriers of passengers (non-business) exempt
- Intermodal equipment has specific requirements
- No-defect DVIRs not required for property-carrying CMVs
- All safety defects must always be documented
Conclusion
Implementing this comprehensive DVIR checklist is essential for maintaining fleet safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. By systematically inspecting commercial vehicles before and after each trip, drivers can identify potential safety issues before they lead to roadside breakdowns, DOT violations, or accidents. The DVIR is not just a regulatory requirement—it's a critical safety tool and documentation that protects both drivers and carriers.
For optimal DVIR management, consider implementing the FleetRabbit software to streamline your inspection process. The FleetRabbit platform provides digital DVIR documentation, real-time defect reporting, automated maintenance alerts, and comprehensive compliance records—all accessible from any mobile device. This digital approach significantly reduces paperwork, improves inspection thoroughness, and ensures all defects are properly documented and addressed.
The FleetRabbit APP allows drivers to complete DVIRs quickly and accurately, with automated workflows that notify maintenance personnel of needed repairs. Fleet managers gain complete visibility into vehicle status, maintenance needs, and compliance records through the centralized FleetRabbit platform. Whether for FMCSA compliance, preventative maintenance, or operational safety, the FleetRabbit software provides a comprehensive solution for modern fleet management.
Access the digital version of this checklist through the FleetRabbit APP
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