Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Federal regulations (49 CFR 392.7) require a pre-trip inspection before driving each day or each shift. You must also complete a post-trip inspection report (DVIR) at the end of your day. If another driver reported defects, you must verify those defects were corrected before driving.

Skipping a pre-trip inspection can result in fines up to $16,000 per violation for carriers and CSA points on your record. More importantly, mechanical failures from missed inspections cause over 30% of truck-related accidents. A DOT roadside inspection finding defects you should have caught pre-trip can put you out of service.

A thorough pre-trip inspection typically takes 15-20 minutes for an experienced driver. Rushing through it defeats the purpose. Many experienced drivers develop a consistent walk-around pattern so they never miss a checkpoint. You can claim this time on your ELD as on-duty not driving.

Yes. You are responsible for the safe operation of whatever vehicle you drive, regardless of who owns it. In fact, unfamiliar vehicles deserve extra attention during pre-trip because you do not know their maintenance history.