DOT Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Under 49 CFR §392.7, a driver may not operate a CMV unless they are satisfied that the service brakes, parking brake, steering, lighting, tires, horn, wipers, mirrors, coupling devices, wheels and rims, and emergency equipment are in good working order. §396.13 also requires the driver to review the last driver vehicle inspection report (DVIR) before driving. Here is a practical checklist that covers those requirements.

1. Before you start the engine

• Review the previous DVIR. If defects were listed, confirm the repair was certified.
• Check fluid levels (oil, coolant, power steering) and look for leaks under the vehicle.
• Check belts and hoses for cracks and fraying.

2. In the cab

• Gauges: oil pressure, air pressure, voltmeter, coolant temperature.
• Low-air warning activates at or above 60 psi (§393.51).
• Air buildup from 85 to 100 psi happens within the time limits in §393.52 / FMVSS 121.
• Horn, wipers and washers, heater/defroster, and mirrors.
• Seat belt, fire extinguisher (rated and charged), and three warning triangles (§393.95).
• Spare fuses if required, and HazMat shipping papers within reach if applicable.

3. Brake checks

• Static air loss test: no more than 2 psi in 1 minute for a single vehicle, or 3 psi for a combination.
• Applied leak-down test: no more than 3 psi in 1 minute (single) or 4 psi (combination).
• Parking brake and service brake holding tests.
• Slack adjuster stroke within limits. See our brake violations guide.

4. Walk-around

• Lights: headlamps (high/low), turn signals, four-ways, clearance, identification, marker, tail, stop, and license plate lamps. Check that reflective tape and reflectors are present.
• Tires: tread depth (4/32" steer, 2/32" others per §393.75), inflation, cuts, bulges, exposed cord, and matched duals. See our tire guide.
• Wheels and rims: missing or loose lug nuts, rust trails, cracks, and hub oil seals.
• Suspension: springs, U-bolts, torque arms, and air bags.
• Frame and body: cracks, sagging, loose parts, and the condition of doors and hinges.
• Coupling: fifth wheel locked around the kingpin, no gap, release arm engaged, and glad hands and air and electrical lines not chafing or tangled.
• Exhaust: no leaks under the cab or sleeper.
• Cargo: secured per §§393.100–393.136, with doors latched.

5. Document it

Federal rules only require a post-trip DVIR when a defect is found or reported (§396.11). Most carriers require a pre-trip record too, and it is your best defense if a defect shows up at roadside. With DotCheck you can photograph anything that looks questionable and get a likely CFR citation and OOS assessment while you're still in the yard.