Transportation & Logistics · Free Template · ~7 steps
Truck Driver Pre-Trip Inspection Procedure
Trucking company owners and safety managers who want a written pre-trip procedure that meets FMCSA requirements.
Transportation & Logistics · Free Template · ~7 steps
Trucking company owners and safety managers who want a written pre-trip procedure that meets FMCSA requirements.
Who it's for
CDL driver completing a federally required pre-trip inspection
When to run it
Before every trip departure — FMCSA 49 CFR 396.13 requirement
Step-by-step, in order. Each step has the action and the reason it matters.
Check oil level, coolant level, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, belt condition (no cracking or fraying), battery terminals, air compressor. Document any leaks.
Mirrors adjusted, horn works, wipers work both speeds. All dash warning lights extinguish within 2 minutes of startup. Emergency brake test: set trailer brake, pull against it to confirm it holds. Seat belt functional.
Headlights (low/high), turn signals, hazards. Check steering free play — over 10 degrees on a power steering truck is an out-of-service defect. Check lug nuts visually.
Walk all tires. Steer tires: minimum 4/32" tread. Drive/trailer: 2/32" minimum. Check for sidewall damage, bulges, and objects in tread. A blown steer tire at highway speed is a fatality risk.
Air pressure must build to 90 PSI before moving. Pump brakes 5 times with engine off — pressure should not drop more than 3 PSI. Governor cut-in and cut-out within spec (typically 100-125 PSI).
Kingpin locked — tug test with tractor (pull forward with trailer brakes set). Glad hand connections secure. Landing gear up and locked. No gap between tractor and trailer apron plate.
DVIR: date, unit number, defects found or 'no defects.' Sign it. FMCSA requires DVIRs retained for 3 months. Keep in cab.
Trainer notes
An unsigned DVIR is the same as no inspection in a DOT audit. Drivers who sign 'no defects' without inspecting face personal fines.
Who should run the truck driver pre-trip inspection procedure?
CDL driver completing a federally required pre-trip inspection
When should this transportation & logistics procedure be run?
Before every trip departure — FMCSA 49 CFR 396.13 requirement
How many steps does the truck driver pre-trip inspection procedure have?
7 steps. The procedure starts with "Engine compartment" and ends with "Complete and sign the DVIR". Each step in between has the action and the reason it matters.
What's the most common mistake when running this procedure?
Not checking tire tread depth beyond visual. An unsigned DVIR is the same as no inspection in a DOT audit. Drivers who sign 'no defects' without inspecting face personal fines.
Can I get a custom version written for my transportation & logistics business?
Yes. TalkNDone generates a custom SOP from your voice or text description in about 5 minutes — written using your team's words, your equipment, and your specific procedure. $49 one-time, free preview before you pay, no subscription. Start at talkndone.com.
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