Download our Apps and get 14 Days Free Trial
Pre-Trip DVIR Checklist: Complete Driver Vehicle Inspection Report Guide
Introduction
Pre-trip Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs) are mandatory safety procedures required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for all commercial motor vehicles. This comprehensive checklist helps drivers systematically inspect their vehicles before operation, identifying potential safety issues before they lead to road hazards, violations, or costly breakdowns.
Following this DVIR checklist before each trip not only ensures regulatory compliance but also promotes safety, reduces maintenance costs, prevents roadside breakdowns, and extends vehicle lifespan. The checklist aligns with FMCSA requirements, DOT regulations, and industry best practices for commercial vehicle safety and maintenance.
Vehicle Information
Pro Tips for Effective DVIR Inspection
- Consistent Timing: Perform pre-trip inspections at the same time each day, preferably with good lighting conditions, to establish a routine and ensure thorough checks.
- Document Everything: Always document defects with photos when possible. This provides clear evidence for maintenance teams and protects you during roadside inspections or compliance reviews.
- Check Previous DVIRs: Review the last DVIR report to confirm that previously noted defects were properly addressed before beginning your inspection.
- Plan Adequate Time: Allow 30-45 minutes for a thorough inspection. Rushing through checks increases the risk of missing critical safety issues.
- Use a Systematic Approach: Follow the same inspection pattern every time, working from top to bottom and front to back, to ensure no areas are missed.
Engine Compartment
Cab Interior
Required Documents
Lights and Signals
Brake System
Wheels and Tires
Coupling Devices
Trailer
Suspension System
Exhaust System
Fuel System
Detailed Inspection Procedures
Follow these structured procedures to ensure a thorough pre-trip inspection of your commercial vehicle. These procedures are designed to meet FMCSA requirements and industry best practices.
Air Brake Check Procedure
- Start engine and build air pressure to governed cut-out (120-140 psi)
- Turn off engine, release parking brake, press and hold brake pedal
- After initial pressure drop, monitor for continued loss (should not exceed 3 psi in 1 minute for straight trucks or 4 psi for combinations)
- Start engine and rebuild pressure, check governor cut-in (around 100 psi)
- Fan brakes to reduce tank pressure. Low air warning should activate before 60 psi
- Continue fanning brakes. Spring brakes should activate at 20-40 psi
- Rebuild pressure, check for proper brake adjustment by moving forward slowly and applying brakes
Coupling Inspection Procedure
- Check that fifth wheel is securely mounted to frame
- Ensure fifth wheel jaws are closed around kingpin
- Verify release lever is properly seated and safety latch engaged
- Check for adequate space between trailer and tractor frame
- Connect and verify proper attachment of air lines and electrical cord
- Fully raise landing gear and secure handle
- Perform tug test to ensure coupling is secure
Tire Inspection Procedure
- Check tire pressure with a gauge (not just by kicking)
- Inspect tread depth (minimum 4/32" on steer tires, 2/32" on others)
- Look for cuts, bulges, or sidewall damage
- Check for signs of uneven wear that may indicate alignment or inflation issues
- Ensure valve stems and caps are intact with no leaks
- Check for adequate spacing between dual tires and no debris lodged between them
- Verify all lug nuts are present and secure (look for rust trails or shiny threads)
Light Check Procedure
- Turn on all lights and walk around the vehicle
- Check headlights in both low and high beam settings
- Verify turn signals (left and right) are working on both tractor and trailer
- Check brake lights by pressing brake pedal (use a helper or mirror)
- Test 4-way flashers and ensure all marker lights are functioning
- Inspect clearance lights and reflectors for damage or dirt
- Check license plate light is operational
Inspection Progress
0% complete
Electronic Signature
Driver Certification
I hereby certify that I have inspected all items in accordance with 49 CFR 396.11 and 396.13, and that they are in proper working condition with the exceptions noted below.
Defects & Remarks
Regulatory Requirements
The following guidelines outline key federal regulations related to Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports. Understanding these requirements helps ensure compliance and maintains the safety of your operation.
FMCSA Regulation 396.11
- Requires drivers to complete a written DVIR at the end of each workday
- Report must identify the vehicle and list any defects found
- Driver must sign the report
- If no defects are found, driver must certify this
- Motor carriers must maintain DVIRs for at least 3 months
FMCSA Regulation 396.13
- Drivers must review the last DVIR before operating the vehicle
- Verify that required repairs were completed
- Sign the previous report if defects were noted
- Carriers must ensure all noted defects are corrected before vehicle operation
- Repair certification must be completed before the vehicle returns to service
FMCSA Regulation 396.3
- Requires systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all vehicles
- Parts and accessories must be in safe operating condition at all times
- Pushes responsibility to both carrier and driver
- Requires record keeping for each vehicle for at least 12 months
- Records must include identification, inspection schedules, and repair history
CSA BASICs Impact
- Vehicle maintenance violations affect carrier CSA scores
- Poor DVIR practices can lead to roadside violations
- Violations in the Vehicle Maintenance BASIC lead to increased inspection frequency
- Proper documentation provides protection during compliance reviews
- Thorough DVIRs reduce liability exposure in accident litigation
Conclusion
Implementing this comprehensive Pre-Trip DVIR Checklist is not just about regulatory compliance—it's a critical safety practice that protects drivers, other road users, and your company's bottom line. By systematically inspecting all components before operation, drivers can identify and address potential issues before they lead to costly breakdowns, violations, or accidents.
For optimal DVIR management, consider implementing the FleetRabbit APP to streamline your inspection processes. The FleetRabbit platform allows for digital documentation of inspections, provides real-time alerts for maintenance requirements, and creates comprehensive historical records for all vehicles in your fleet. With the FleetRabbit Software, fleet managers can easily track compliance, monitor maintenance patterns, and ensure all vehicles are properly inspected.
Make DVIR inspections an integral part of your fleet safety protocols with FleetRabbit's comprehensive inspection management solution. Whether for regulatory compliance, preventive maintenance, or operational safety, this digital approach significantly improves inspection thoroughness and documentation while reducing administrative burden on drivers and maintenance personnel. By leveraging FleetRabbit, you're not only ensuring compliance but also extending vehicle life, reducing maintenance costs, and enhancing overall fleet safety.
Access the digital version of this checklist through the FleetRabbit APP
© 2025 Pre-Trip DVIR Checklist | Developed by FleetRabbit | Contact us at support@fleetrabbit.com for customized inspection solutions.