CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist & Guide

Download the CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist (PDF)

A CDL pre-trip inspection is a crucial part of safely operating a commercial vehicle. It’s also required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Use this guide as a memory aid ONLY. Every company’s pre-trip inspection varies, as do pre-trip inspection tests administered as part of formal CDL training.

Checking the vehicle before driving each day normally takes about 15 minutes.

When inspecting any vehicle component:

Check that it’s properly secured and mounted, not cracked or broken, and has no visible leaks.

When inspecting any belt:

Check that it doesn’t have excessive play, and no splits or cuts.

When inspecting any fluid reservoir:

Check dipstick locations and that all fluids are at proper levels.

When inspecting any hose:

Check that there are no splits or cuts, and no leaks. Check that it’s secure at both ends.

When inspecting any metal part:

Check that it’s securely mounted and not broken or cracked. Check that there are no illegal welds.

When inspecting any rubber part:

Check that there are no abrasions, bulges, or cuts.

Before you begin the inspection:

• Check VIN, insurance, and registration to make sure you’re inspecting the right vehicle
• Select a safe location on level ground and a clear view away from other vehicles.
• Keep the key in your pocket
• Use wheel chocks before going under any part of the vehicle
• Wear a high-visibility vest, gloves, and eye protection

• Are the lights on the front of the vehicle securely mounted, clean, and intact?
• Are there any leaks under the vehicle?
• Is the vehicle leaning or sagging?
• Is there any visible damage to the vehicle?
• Is the cargo secured?

• Fluid levels
• Fluid leaks
• Belts & hoses
• Alternator
• Water pump
• Air Compressor
• Axle
• Steering shaft, gear box, and linkage
• Springs
• Shock absorbers & suspension
• Brake chambers & hoses

• Rims
• Tires
• Lug nuts
• Valve stems

• Lights
• Windshield
• Wipers
• Hood
• Grill
• License plate
• Bumper
• Leaks

• Driver door & mirror
• Fuel tank & cap
• Lights & reflectors
• Hood latch
• Emergency equipment

• Clearance
• Reflectors
• Lights
• Turn signals
• Brakes
• Marker lamps
• Doors & latches
• Cargo securement devices
• DOT bumper
• Splash guards

• Wheels tires, rims, and lug nuts
• Lights & reflectors
• Frame & crossmembers
• Tandem release
• Floor
• Landing gear
• Air lines
• DOT tape
• Doors or ties
• Splash guards
• Electrical connections
• Suspension

• Mounting bolts / weldsv
• Pintle hook / ball
• Safety latch / locking device
• Safety chains / cables
• Eye / coupler
• Drawbar / tongue

• Seat Belt
• Turn signal indicator
• Steering wheel
• Clutch pedal
• Seat
• Horns
• Mirrors
• Windshield
• Wipers & washers
• Oil & air pressure
• Ammeter/volts
• Water temperature
• Heater & defroster
• Paperwork
• Emergency equipment

Parking Brake Check

Service Brake Check

Air Brake Checks

• • Applied Pressure Test
  • Warning Light & Buzzer Test
  • Valve Pop-Out Test

Note: The air brake checks can be broken down into three categories. They are: testing for leaks, testing the alarms, and testing the buttons. Use the acronym LAB as a memory aid.

Download the CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist (PDF)

Sources: CDL Training Today, NAWT.org, CDL College, Oregon.gov, Layover.com

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