For fleet managers, drivers, and logistics teams, making sure every vehicle is in good condition before heading out is critical—for cutting down on unexpected breakdowns and, ultimately, for safety. We’ve curated 21 pre-trip inspection checklists that’ll guide you through checking key details, from tire pressure and brake function to safety equipment.
With each inspection point clearly laid out, you can pinpoint issues right away while maintaining compliance with industry regulations. All of the pre-inspection checklists below are customizable and cover a wide range of vehicles. Whether you’re managing small delivery vans, heavy-duty trucks, or specialized trailers, these checklists will work for you.
Pre-trip inspection checklists to boost safety and reliability
These checklists are available as downloadable PDFs or as online forms that you can share:
Pre-trip inspection checklist
The pre-trip inspection checklist simplifies vehicle checks, covering essentials like tire condition, lights, fluids, and brakes to improve safety and minimize last-minute road issues. Designed with flexibility in mind, you can adapt each section to suit different types of vehicles and inspection depths. Key features include multiple response options and being able to add notes for each item, making it easy to document each step of the inspection.CDL pre-trip inspection checklist
This CDL-specific checklist helps commercial drivers hit mandatory inspection points before getting behind the wheel. Taking into account everything from coupling devices to air brakes, it’s thorough yet efficient, aiding you in complying with industry regulations. Feel free to modify any part of the checklist to meet your state requirements or company policies. It includes checks for exterior and interior inspections as well as brake inspections to certify the inspection is complete.Pre-trip inspection class A checklist
Use this checklist for Class A vehicles, which weigh over 26,000 pounds. It targets specific requirements, such as trailer hitch and brake connections, to ensure compliance with safety standards. The checklist includes key elements for class A commercial vehicles, and you’ll find it convenient to manage and document each inspection. You can edit each section to match your company or vehicle specifications, with features like photo uploads and notes for comprehensive documentation.Pre-trip inspection class B checklist
This Class B checklist is built with mid-sized commercial vehicles in mind, focusing on items like fluid levels, tire integrity, and brake efficiency for safer short-haul operations. Designed to be flexible, it allows you to add specific company checks or state requirements easily. Key features include diverse input types, image uploads for documenting findings, and options to assign corrective actions. Keep inspections quick and focused with this template, which ends with a final walk-around so you won’t miss anything.School bus pre-trip inspection checklist
Maximize the safety of each school trip with this checklist, which covers essential items like emergency exits, seating, lights, and signals. Designed with young passengers in mind, it aids you in meeting rigorous standards, and you can personalize it to meet local or school-specific requirements. It features both exterior and interior inspections with final driving tests, making daily inspections easy to execute and track.Free pre- and post-trip vehicle inspection form
This inspection form is crafted for comprehensive vehicle assessments both before hitting the road and upon returning. The pre-trip section focuses on ensuring every detail, from fluid levels to brake integrity, is checked for readiness, reducing the risk of unexpected issues later on. By the post-trip section, you’ll assess wear and tear and identify if the vehicle needs further maintenance from the journey. With questions that can be tailored to different vehicle sizes or fleet requirements, this form is ideal for tracking the condition of your vehicle and keeping organized records.Truck pre-trip inspection checklist
This checklist covers crucial truck components, including tires, suspension, and electrical systems, to confirm that trucks are ready for rigorous routes. It aids you in conducting comprehensive inspections, and you can use it both for long- or short-haul trips. Feel free to customize parts of the checklist to suit your own truck models and company standards. It’s an essential tool for maintaining safety and performance standards, especially if you manage a diverse fleet of trucks.DMV pre-trip inspection checklist
Created with Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) regulations in mind, this template provides a structured way to confirm that every vehicle component meets necessary inspection requirements. It includes checks for lights, mirrors, braking systems, and emergency equipment. Each section is organized to guide you through the inspection with ease, and you can adjust the checklist to reflect regional differences in DMV standards. With this checklist, you can maintain compliance with local and state standards more efficiently.In-cab pre-trip inspection checklist
For a quick yet thorough in-cab inspection, this checklist helps drivers assess the inside of the vehicle, from ensuring the steering and mirrors are correctly adjusted to checking whether emergency equipment and seatbelts are working. It’s designed to support driver comfort and preparedness by focusing on key controls and safety mechanisms. To customize the checklist, you can emphasize specific in-cab features so that drivers can feel equipped and ready for the trip.Semi-truck pre-trip inspection checklist
This inspection checklist is tailored for semi-trucks, covering large vehicle essentials like air brakes, coupling devices, and trailer connections. It guides drivers to identify any mechanical or safety issues before heading out on the road, ensuring long-haul trips go smoothly and without incident. The checklist also allows you to customize fields based on the semi-truck model or your company standards, so it can accommodate diverse maintenance and inspection protocols. This tool empowers drivers to complete their inspections with confidence, prioritizing safety and reliability for every trip.Daily pre-trip inspection checklist
This daily checklist is designed for quick, consistent pre-trip checks, making it ideal for operators who need a regular routine for vehicle inspections. It tackles key areas like tire pressure, brake function, fluid levels, and lights, and you can use it to create a dependable routine for verifying vehicle safety before each day’s operations. With sections that can be adapted to different vehicle types, this checklist allows drivers to perform thorough inspections in less time, promoting a high standard of daily road readiness.Commercial vehicle pre-trip inspection checklist
This checklist supports drivers and fleet managers in conducting comprehensive pre-trip inspections on all types of commercial vehicles, from delivery vans to large trucks. With thorough checks on critical items like coupling devices, cargo security, and emergency equipment, it ensures each vehicle meets both safety and regulatory standards. Easily customizable for different vehicle classes or company policies, it enables you to track inspection points efficiently, giving you peace of mind that every vehicle is ready to operate within safety guidelines.18-wheeler pre-trip inspection checklist
Tailored for 18-wheelers–the largest type of commercial trucks–this checklist covers all key components, from the cab and engine to the trailer and braking systems. It includes checks specific to the unique needs of 18-wheelers, such as trailer connections, air brakes, and tire inspections, to prevent on-road issues and safety concerns. You can adapt sections to match individual truck setups, company standards, or route requirements, making it a versatile tool that suits different types of long-haul operations.Truck driver pre-trip inspection checklist
This checklist serves as an essential tool for truck drivers, designed to help them verify all critical components before each journey. Covering a broad range of areas, including mirrors, cargo security, engine checks, and emergency equipment, it supports drivers in maintaining vehicle readiness and operational safety. The layout allows you to easily customize sections based on your truck model or company inspection routines so you can have a tailored approach to each vehicle. Perfect for both new and experienced drivers, this checklist streamlines pre-trip routines, promoting safety and thorough preparation for each journey.FMCSA pre-trip inspection checklist
Focused on compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) standards, this checklist assists you in conducting pre-trip inspections that meet federal regulations. It covers critical components, such as braking systems, steering, and lighting, providing a structured approach to thorough vehicle checks so you can prevent costly compliance issues. Since the checklist is customizable, you can add state-specific requirements too. By using this checklist, you can maintain a consistent standard for adhering to regulations.Trailer pre-trip inspection checklist
This checklist is for thoroughly assessing trailers before each trip. It assesses crucial items like hitch connections, brake lines, tires, and lighting systems to ensure safe transport. It works for different trailer types, whether you’re inspecting a flatbed, dry van, or refrigerated trailer. You can adjust sections to focus on specific trailer features or cargo types, providing a tailored inspection tool that minimizes risks and improves safety on the road.Driver pre-trip inspection checklist
Built to assist drivers in carrying out essential safety checks, this checklist focuses on the in-cab and external vehicle components that directly impact safety. It includes checks for mirrors, seat belts, dashboard indicators, and emergency supplies. Customize the template by highlighting unique requirements based on your vehicle or your company policies. All in all, it’s practical to use for routine checks, especially since it comes with mobile access.Class C pre-trip inspection checklist
Class C vehicles are smaller vehicles like vans, small buses, and single-unit trucks. To confirm that everything’s ready before a trip, you can try out this inspection checklist. It covers the basic yet essential items needed for safe operation, such as brake function, tire condition, and lighting checks. It’s easy to adapt to different models or specific fleet standards, and you can add your own inspection points to streamline your workflow.Pre-trip fleet vehicle inspection form (clarksvilletn.gov)
The pre-trip fleet vehicle inspection form from Clarksville, Tennessee’s government site ensures thorough checks before fleet operations. This PDF includes inspections of brakes, lights, tires, and fluids, crucial for fleet safety and efficiency. Customize by adapting sections to fit your fleet’s specific needs and comply with local regulations, enhancing its effectiveness in preventing issues. Visit the page to explore, download, and use the form to keep your fleet road-ready and secure.Pre-trip inspection sheet (apps.itd.idaho.gov)
The pre-trip inspection sheet from Idaho Transportation Department ensures thorough vehicle checks. This PDF covers brakes, lights, tires, and fluids. Customize sections to fit your vehicle’s needs and local regulations. Visit the page to explore, download, and use the sheet for safe travels. Ensure your vehicle is road-ready with this comprehensive checklist.Trailer towing pre-trip safety inspection checklist (EPA)
The trailer towing pre-trip safety inspection checklist from the EPA ensures safe towing practices. This PDF covers hitch connections, brakes, tires, and lights. Customize sections to fit your vehicle’s needs and local regulations. Visit the page to explore, download, and use the checklist for secure towing operations.
How to create a pre-trip inspection checklist in Lumiform
Building a custom pre-trip inspection checklist in Lumiform is simple and impactful, ensuring inspections are thorough and easy to conduct. Open any of the templates above, then use the app’s drag-and-drop form builder to edit it based on your exact needs. To make the process faster and more accurate, you can include multiple input types, allowing drivers to record findings with text or snap a photo for visual proof of any issues.
Once your template is ready, Lumiform’s mobile app is a huge advantage, especially for drivers who need to conduct inspections on the go. They can easily complete the checklist directly on their phones, with data saved in real-time.
If any issues arise, simply flag problems and assign tasks for quick follow-up. This way, you can immediately start addressing any safety concerns. Plus, the app’s collaboration features make it easy to share the checklist across your team, keeping everyone informed.
After inspections, you can review inspection patterns and spot deeper issues using the app’s data analysis and reporting tools. Your team can then be more proactive with managing vehicle health and reducing downtime. This tailored, easy-to-use approach keeps your fleet safe and your operations running smoothly.