Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist for Truck Drivers: Stay Safe, Stay Compliant

Before every trip, drivers are required by law — and by common sense — to conduct a pre-trip inspection of their vehicle. Skipping this step not only risks fines from the DOT but also puts lives and cargo at risk. A thorough inspection ensures that your truck is safe to operate, reduces the chance of breakdowns, and keeps your company compliant with FMCSA regulations.

At LT Advisors, we believe safety and compliance start before the wheels even move. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist to guide you step by step.

A proper inspection:

• Prevents accidents caused by mechanical failures
   
• Helps avoid roadside violations and costly citations
   
• Builds a clean safety record for drivers and carriers
   
• Saves time and money on unexpected repairs
   

DOT officers often say: “Most violations could have been avoided with a good pre-trip inspection.” That’s why it’s not just a box to check — it’s your first line of defense.

Start with a full walkaround of the vehicle:

• Look for leaks (oil, fuel, coolant, air)
   
• Check for loose, broken, or missing parts
   
• Inspect tires and wheels for wear, damage, or low pressure
   
• Verify load security
   

• Headlights, high/low beams, and turn signals working
   
• Reflectors and clearance lights intact
   
• Windshield clean and free of cracks
   
• Wipers and washer fluid functioning
   

Pop the hood and inspect:

• Oil level and condition
   
• Coolant level
   
• Belts and hoses (no cracks, frays, or leaks)
   
• Power steering fluid
   
• Alternator and water pump secure
   

• Door opens and closes properly
   
• Mirrors adjusted and clean
   
• Fire extinguisher present and charged
   
• First aid kit and emergency triangles in place
   
• Seat belt working properly
   

• Check brake lines and hoses for leaks
   
• Inspect slack adjusters and push rods
   
• Test service brakes, parking brake, and trailer brake
   
• Ensure air pressure builds up to proper PSI
   

• Test all lights: headlights, brake lights, turn signals, hazard lights
   
• Check reflectors and DOT tape visibility
   
• Verify battery connections are secure
   

• Inspect fifth wheel for cracks or excessive play
   
• Ensure locking jaws fully engaged around kingpin
   
• Safety chains and electrical connections secured
   
• Trailer landing gear raised fully
   

• Doors latched securely
   
• Roof and sidewalls free of damage
   
• Lights and reflectors working
   
• Load properly distributed and secured
   

• Always use a checklist — don’t rely on memory.
   
• Take your time; a rushed inspection leads to missed issues.
   
• Document every inspection in your Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR).
   
• Report any defects immediately and never drive an unsafe truck.
   

• Forgetting to check emergency equipment
   
• Ignoring small leaks (which can become big problems)
   
• Skipping brake inspections
   
• Failing to keep proper DVIR records
   

Remember: DOT auditors can request your inspection logs at any time. Missing or incomplete reports can lead to serious penalties.

While drivers are responsible for inspections, carriers are responsible for keeping the records organized. At LT Advisors, we:

• Train drivers on how to conduct and log inspections properly
   
• Organize and store DVIR records for easy access
   
• Monitor compliance to ensure you’re always audit-ready
   
• Provide ongoing safety support at costs below market average
   

We make sure no step is missed — so you can focus on the road while we keep your company safe, compliant, and profitable.

A proper pre-trip inspection is more than just a DOT requirement — it’s a driver’s daily shield against accidents, violations, and downtime. By following this checklist, you protect your safety, your company’s reputation, and the cargo you haul.

At LT Advisors, we’re here to keep your safety and compliance program running smoothly every single day. Because in trucking, safety starts before the engine does.