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Daily pre-trip inspection checklist

Daily pre-trip inspection checklist

Stay consistent and thorough with vehicle checks using this checklist. With clear, actionable items for each inspection step, it enables you to document every critical detail.

Use this template with Lumiform

  • Customize this template or build your own
  • Fill out templates via mobile app
  • Get reports and analyse your data
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Daily pre-trip inspection checklist

Stay consistent and thorough with vehicle checks using this checklist. With clear, actionable items for each inspection step, it enables you to document every critical detail.

Use this template with Lumiform

  • Customize this template or build your own
  • Fill out templates via mobile app
  • Get reports and analyse your data
Prices start from ░░░ per month
Book a demo
Learn more
or Download template as PDF

The daily pre-trip inspection checklist provides a systematic approach to examining your commercial vehicles before operation. This template guides drivers through a thorough inspection of critical components including brakes, steering, tires, lights, and safety equipment—all essential elements required by DOT regulations. We created this template to help fleet managers implement consistent inspection practices across their entire operation.

When properly utilized, this checklist can identify potential mechanical issues before they cause roadside breakdowns or safety incidents. The FMCSA mandates that drivers conduct thorough pre-trip inspections before beginning any trip, typically taking 30-50 minutes depending on vehicle size and complexity By documenting these inspections properly, you protect your drivers, other road users, and your business from preventable risks.

Related categories

Preview of the template
Page 1
Exterior Inspection
Tires - Inspect for proper inflation, tread depth, and any visible damage
Wheels - Check for loose lug nuts and any visible damage
Lights - Verify all exterior lights are functioning properly
Mirrors - Ensure all mirrors are properly adjusted and unobstructed
Body - Inspect for any dents, cracks, or other visible damage
Hoses/Belts - Check for any leaks, cracks, or wear
Fluid Levels - Inspect engine oil, coolant, transmission, and other critical fluid levels
Interior Inspection
Dashboard - Verify all gauges, warning lights, and controls are functioning properly
Seatbelts - Ensure all seatbelts are properly secured and in good condition
Brakes - Test the brake pedal for proper operation and travel
Horn - Verify the horn is functioning correctly
Wipers/Washers - Ensure the wipers and washers are operating as intended
Emergency Equipment - Inspect fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and other emergency gear
Documentation - Verify all required paperwork (registration, insurance, etc.) is present
Under Hood Inspection
Battery - Check the battery condition and connections
Engine Oil - Inspect the oil level and condition
Coolant - Verify the coolant level and condition
Hoses/Belts - Inspect for any leaks, cracks, or wear
Wiring - Check for any visible damage or loose connections
Air Filters - Inspect the air filters and replace if necessary
Fluid Leaks - Check for any fluid leaks in the engine compartment

Frequently asked questions

What documentation should I maintain after completing the daily pre-trip inspection?

Keep completed inspection reports for at least three months as required by FMCSA regulations. Document any defects discovered, repairs made, and who certified the repairs. This documentation is crucial for demonstrating compliance during audits and can help defend against liability claims.

Who is legally responsible for ensuring pre-trip inspections are completed correctly?

The primary responsibility falls on the driver, who must personally verify the vehicle’s roadworthiness before departure. While fleet maintenance personnel may perform regular maintenance, the driver is ultimately accountable and may be liable for operating an unsafe vehicle, even if someone else performed maintenance.

How does this pre-trip inspection checklist help prevent CSA violations?

This checklist systematically covers all components inspected during roadside examinations, helping you identify and address issues before they become violations. By documenting your inspections, you demonstrate a pattern of compliance and due diligence that can mitigate penalties and improve your safety rating.

What should I do if I discover a defect during my pre-trip inspection?

Document the defect in detail on your inspection report. Decide whether the issue makes the vehicle unsafe to operate—if it does, do not drive the vehicle until you complete the repairs. For less critical issues, address them before the next required inspection and obtain certification that you completed the repairs.

This template, developed by Lumiform employees, serves as a starting point for businesses using the Lumiform platform and is intended as a hypothetical example only. It does not replace professional advice. Companies should consult qualified professionals to assess the suitability and legality of using this template in their specific workplace or jurisdiction. Lumiform is not liable for any errors or omissions in this template or for any actions taken based on its content.