CDL Pre‑Trip Inspection Checklist (with PDF) - Truck Inspection & Maintenance

Engine Compartment CDL Section

Fluid Levels

Engine oil level - between MIN and MAX marks

Coolant level in radiator and reservoir

Power steering fluid level

Windshield washer fluid level

Belts and Hoses

All belts - check for wear, cracks, proper tension

All hoses - no leaks, cracks, or bulges

Check for any leaks (oil, coolant, fuel)

Cab Area / Driver Compartment CDL Section

Controls and Gauges

All gauges functioning (oil pressure, temperature, voltage)

Horn operational (both air and electric if equipped)

Steering wheel - no excessive play (max 2" at rim)

Safety Equipment

Seat belt present and functioning properly

Fire extinguisher - charged and mounted properly

Three warning triangles present

Spare electrical fuses (if vehicle uses fuses)

External Walk-Around CDL Section

Lights and Reflectors

Headlights - both low and high beam

Turn signals - front and rear

Brake lights and tail lights

Clearance lights and reflectors

Fuel Area

Fuel tank(s) secure, cap(s) on tight

No fuel leaks from tank or lines

Wheels and Tires Critical CDL

Steering Axle Tires

Tread depth minimum 4/32" on steering axle

No cuts, bulges, or tread separation

Proper tire pressure (check with gauge)

Drive and Other Tires

Tread depth minimum 2/32" on all other tires

Dual tires not touching and evenly inflated

All lug nuts present, tight, no rust streaks

Rims - no cracks, bends, or welding repairs

Brake System Critical CDL

Air Brake System Tests

Air pressure builds to governor cutoff (120-140 psi) within 45 seconds

Air leak test - less than 3 psi/minute (single), 4 psi/minute (combination)

Low air warning device activates before 60 psi

Spring brakes apply automatically between 20-45 psi

Service brakes stop vehicle smoothly, no pulling

Parking brake holds vehicle on grade

Brake Components

Brake drums/discs - no cracks or damage

Air hoses - no damage, properly connected

Coupling System CDL Section

Fifth wheel properly engaged, no gaps, locked

Kingpin secure, locking jaws closed

Air lines connected to glad hands, no leaks

Electrical cord connected and secured

Landing gear fully raised, crank handle secured

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CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Download PDF Version

PDF Features Include:

CDL Driver & Vehicle Information

CDL REQUIREMENTS NOTICE

Fluid Levels

Belts and Hoses

Controls and Gauges

Safety Equipment

Lights and Reflectors

Fuel Area

Steering Axle Tires

Drive and Other Tires

Air Brake System Tests

Brake Components

Inspection Notes & Defects

CDL Inspection Summary

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Features

Integration

Popular

AI Predictive Maintenance Software for Bus Fleets: A Complete Overview

CMMS Best Practices for Intercity & Coach Bus Operations

Fleet Automation Software Guide for Seamless Ops

Industries

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Popular

How to Improve School Bus Operations with Maintenance Software

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CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Download PDF Version

PDF Features Include:

CDL Driver & Vehicle Information

CDL REQUIREMENTS NOTICE

Fluid Levels

Belts and Hoses

Controls and Gauges

Safety Equipment

Lights and Reflectors

Fuel Area

Steering Axle Tires

Drive and Other Tires

Air Brake System Tests

Brake Components

Inspection Notes & Defects

CDL Inspection Summary