➙

Official Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Form in PDF

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is a vital tool used by drivers to ensure that their vehicles are safe and roadworthy before embarking on a journey. This checklist helps identify any potential issues that could compromise safety, allowing for timely repairs or maintenance. By following this systematic approach, drivers can enhance their own safety and that of others on the road.

Open Form Here

Open Form Here

Content Navigation

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form serves as a critical tool for ensuring the safety and operational readiness of vehicles prior to their use. This comprehensive checklist encompasses various essential components, including the evaluation of the vehicle’s exterior and interior, assessment of fluid levels, and verification of essential equipment functionality. Each section prompts the inspector to examine crucial elements such as tire pressure, brake systems, lights, and mirrors, thereby promoting a thorough understanding of the vehicle's condition. Additionally, the checklist often includes spaces for documenting findings and any necessary repairs, which fosters accountability and encourages timely maintenance. By adhering to this checklist, drivers and operators can mitigate risks associated with vehicle malfunctions, thereby enhancing safety for themselves and others on the road. Ultimately, the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is not merely a formality; it embodies a proactive approach to vehicle management that underscores the importance of diligence in transportation safety practices.

↓ PDF File

Discover More Templates

1099-nec Form - The 1099-NEC contains multiple copies for different purposes, including copies for recipients and states.

CBP Declaration Form 6059B - Travelers can ask CBP officials for assistance with the form if needed.

Dollar Sheet Fundraiser - A simple dollar from you could change someone’s day.

Steps to Using Pre Trip Inspection Checklist

Completing the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is an essential step before hitting the road. This process ensures that your vehicle is safe and ready for travel, helping to prevent accidents and breakdowns. Follow these steps carefully to fill out the form accurately and efficiently.

Begin by gathering your materials. Ensure you have a pen and the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form readily available.
At the top of the form, write the date of the inspection. This helps keep track of when the inspection was completed.
Next, enter your vehicle's identification details, including the make, model, and license plate number.
Move on to the first section of the checklist. Here, you will assess the exterior of the vehicle. Check for any visible damages, tire conditions, and fluid leaks.
As you inspect each item, mark the corresponding box on the checklist to indicate whether it is in good condition or requires attention.
Proceed to the interior inspection section. Look at the dashboard indicators, seatbelts, and mirrors. Again, mark the checklist as you go.
Don’t forget to check the emergency equipment, such as fire extinguishers and first aid kits. Ensure they are present and in good condition.
After completing all sections, review your entries for accuracy. This ensures you haven’t missed anything important.
Finally, sign and date the form at the bottom. This confirms that you have completed the inspection and that the information provided is accurate.

Key takeaways

When preparing for a trip, especially in a vehicle, a Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is essential. This checklist helps ensure safety and compliance. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

Thoroughness is Key: Every item on the checklist should be inspected carefully. Skipping steps can lead to serious issues on the road.
Documentation Matters: Keep a copy of the completed checklist. This serves as proof that you conducted the inspection and can be useful in case of any disputes.
Know the Checklist: Familiarize yourself with each item on the checklist before your trip. Understanding what to look for can make the process smoother.
Regular Updates: Ensure the checklist is up to date with current regulations and safety standards. This may change over time, so stay informed.
Involve Others: If you’re traveling with a team, encourage everyone to participate in the inspection. This promotes accountability and thoroughness.
Check for Hazards: Look for any visible signs of damage or wear. Addressing potential hazards before hitting the road can prevent accidents.
Follow a Systematic Approach: Inspect items in a consistent order. This helps ensure that nothing is overlooked during the inspection.
Be Mindful of Weather Conditions: Weather can impact vehicle performance. Make sure to check items that may be affected by rain, snow, or extreme temperatures.
Practice Safety First: If something seems off during the inspection, don’t ignore it. Take the necessary steps to resolve any issues before proceeding.

By following these key takeaways, you can enhance your safety and preparedness on the road. A thorough Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is not just a formality; it’s a critical part of responsible vehicle operation.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is essential for ensuring vehicle safety and compliance. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are seven common misconceptions:

The checklist is optional.
Many believe that completing the checklist is not mandatory. In reality, it is a crucial requirement for commercial drivers to ensure vehicle safety before hitting the road.
Only the driver needs to complete the checklist.
Some think that only the driver is responsible for the inspection. However, team members or maintenance personnel may also play a role in ensuring the vehicle is in good condition.
All vehicles require the same checklist.
It is a misconception that one standard checklist applies to all vehicles. Different types of vehicles may have specific requirements that need to be addressed.
It is sufficient to perform the inspection once a week.
Many assume that weekly inspections are enough. In fact, a pre-trip inspection should be conducted before each trip to identify any potential issues.
Digital checklists are not as valid as paper ones.
Some people believe that digital checklists lack legitimacy. However, electronic forms are just as valid as paper forms, provided they meet regulatory standards.
Only visible issues need to be reported.
There is a misconception that only visible problems should be noted. Drivers should report any concerns, even if they are not immediately apparent, to ensure thorough safety checks.
Completing the checklist guarantees vehicle safety.
Some drivers think that simply filling out the checklist ensures their vehicle is safe. While it is a critical step, ongoing maintenance and vigilance are also necessary for overall safety.

Preview - Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Form

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

FRONT OF TRACTOR

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS o Proper Color

o Working

o Not Broken o Not cracked

LEAKS

o Check for puddles

o Check for drips under engine

Lights

License Plate

Leaks

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - PASSENGER SIDE

WATER PUMP o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts o Hoses attached securely

o No leaking hoses or water pump o Belts no more than ¾ inch of play

o Belts not cracked, frayed, or damaged

ALTERNATOR

o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts

oWires good connections, not frayed

oBelt no more than ¾ inch of play

oBelts not frayed or cracked

OIL LEVEL

oCheck for level and condition

PLUS ALL OTHER HOSES & WIRING

oNot cracked, frayed, or broken

oBelts no more than ¾ inch of play o Hoses not leaking

Engine Air Duct Work

Oil Dip Stick

Oil Fill

	Accessory Drive
	Belts
	Water Pump
Turbo Charger	Alternator

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE

COOLANT

oCheck for level and condition

oHoses attached and not leaking

POWER STEERING RESERVOIR

oMounted properly

oHoses attached and not leaking

oCheck for level and condition

AIR COMPRESSOR

oMounted Securely

oNo missing bolts or parts

oNo air leaks at lines

oCheck if gear or belt driven

oBelt no more than ¾ inch of play

oBelts not cracked or frayed

STEERING GEAR BOX

oMounted properly

oNo missing parts, nuts or bolts o Lines and hoses not leaking or broken

	Engine Coolant
	Reservoir
	Windsheild
	Washer Fluid
	Reservoir
Engine Air Duct
Work
Power Steering
Reservoir	Radiator Brace
	Radiator Brace
Steering Gear
Box
Pitman Arm

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

 POWER STEERING RESERVOIR	ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE CON’T
 POWER STEERING RESERVOIR
o Mounted properly
o Hoses attached and not leaking
o Check for level and condition
 AIR COMPRESSOR
o Mounted Securely	Power Steering
o No missing bolts or parts	Power Steering
o No missing bolts or parts	Reservoir
o No air leaks at lines
o Check if gear or belt driven
o Belt no more than ¾ inch of play
o Belts not cracked or frayed
 STEERING GEAR BOX	Steering Gear
 STEERING GEAR BOX	Box
o Mounted properly
o No missing parts, nuts or bolts
o Lines and hoses not leaking or	Pitman Arm
broken	Pitman Arm
broken
 STEERING LINKAGE
o Pitman arm, Drag link, Steering
knuckle, Tie rods and tie rod ends
o Not cracked, bent or broken	Spring Mount	Drag Link	Leaf Spring
o Castle nuts and cotter pins
o Not missing and in place

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Governor

Air Compressor

Engine Oil Pan

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

AIR COMPRESSOR o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts o No air leaks at lines

o Check if gear or belt driven

o Belt no more than ¾ inch of play o Belts not cracked or frayed

STEERING GEAR BOX

o Mounted properly

oNo missing parts, nuts or bolts o Lines and hoses not leaking or broken

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE CON’T

Engine Air Duct

Work

Fan Belts

Gear Driven Air

Compressor

Steering U-Joints

Steering Column

Additional Hoses & Wiring

Shock Absorber

Steering Gear Box	Frame Rail	Fuel Filter
Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items		Reference Items

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - AIR COMPRESSOR

AIR COMPRESSOR o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts o No air leaks at lines

o Check if gear or belt driven

o Belt no more than ¾ inch of play o Belts not cracked or frayed

Air Governor

Gear Driven Air Compressor

Hoses

Fuel Pump

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

FRONT SUSPENSION

LEAF SPRINGS

o Not shifted or out of place

oNot cracked, broken or missing

SPRING MOUNTS

oMounted securely- front, back, and U-blots

oNot cracked or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

oMounted Securely

oNot bent or dented o Not leaking

Shock Absorber

Leaf Spring

Tie Rod

Air Hose

Air LIne

Tie Rod End

U-Bolts

Axle

Service Brake

Chamber

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

LEAF SPRINGS

o Not shifted or out of place

oNot cracked, broken or missing

SPRING MOUNTS

oMounted securely- front, back, and U-blots

oNot cracked or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

oMounted Securely

oNot bent or dented o Not leaking

FRONT SUSPENSION CON’T

Frame Rail

U-Bolt

Leaf Spring

Air Dryer location varies depending on model.

Located either behind the front bumper or behind the fuel tank.

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Spring Mount

Air Dryer

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

 HOSES AND LINES			FRONT BRAKES
 HOSES AND LINES
o Mounted securely		Service Brake
o	Not leaking	Service Brake
o	Not cracked or frayed	Chamber
o	Not cracked or frayed		Tire
			Tire
 CHAMBER		Push Rod
o Mounted securely
o Not dented or damaged			Wheel
o	Not leaking
 SLACK ADJUSTER			Slack Adjuster
o	No more than 1 inch of free play at	Castle Nut
the push rod with the brakes released.		Cotter Pin	Adjustment Nut
o	Not bent, broken, loose, or missing		Adjustment Nut
o	Not bent, broken, loose, or missing
parts		Steering
		Knuckle	Brake Drum
 DRUMS			Brake Drum
 DRUMS
o	Not cracked, broken or dented
o	No oil leaking from inner oil seal,	Snap Ring
free of debris			Brake Lining
 LININGS

oNo cracked, broken or missing parts o Not less than ¼ inch in thickness

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

HOSES AND LINES o Mounted securely o Not leaking

o Not cracked or frayed

CHAMBER

o Mounted securely

oNot dented or damaged

oNot leaking

SLACK ADJUSTER

oNo more than 1 inch of free play at the push rod with the brakes released.

oNot bent, broken, loose, or missing parts

DRUMS

oNot cracked, broken or dented

oNo oil leaking from inner oil seal, free of debris

LININGS

oNo cracked, broken or missing parts

oNot less than ¼ inch in thickness

FRONT BRAKES CON’T

Service Brake

Chamber

Push Rod

Clevis Pin &

Cotter Pin

Slack Adjuster

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Line

Air Hose

Shock Absorber

U-Bolt

Spring

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

FRONT WHEEL

TIRES

oProper inflation – company or manufacturer specification

o No bulges, cuts, or retreads

o Minimum tread depth of 4/32”

RIMS

oNot bent, cracked, No welding repairs.

LUG NUTS

oNone are missing

oTight – no shinny threads, or rust trails

OUTER HUB OIL SEALS

oNot leaking, no missing bolts o Proper oil level

	Tire	Wheel
	Hub Oil	Lug Nut
	Reservior	Lug Nut
	Reservior
	Outer Hub	Valve Cap
	Oil Seal

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

DRIVER FUEL AREA

DRIVER’S DOOR

oDoor opens and closes properly

oSeal is in good condition

DRIVER’S MIRRORS

oClean and free of obstruction

oNot cracked, broken, or damaged

oMounted securely

FUEL TANK

oMounted securely

o Not leaking

o Seal in cap OK

Mirror

Storage

Compartment

Door

Cap & Seal

Battery Box &

Cover

Saddle Mounts	Leaks
Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items	Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

AIR LINES & ELECTRIC LINE o Not cracked, frayed, cut, or kinked o Mounted securely at the glad hands o Not leaking

BEHIND THE CAB

BATTERY BOX & BATTERIES o Box is mounted properly

o Batteries are secure in the box o Lid secure

o Connections not corroded

CATWALK

o Mounted properly

oNot, missing, or damaged

oFree of obstructions

DRIVE SHAFT

oNot bent, or damaged

oCoupling, U-joints appear secure

EXHAUST SYSTEM

oSecurely mounted

oNot dented or damaged

oNot leaking

FRAME

oNot cracked, or damaged

oNo missing bolts

oNo illegal welds

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS

oClean and working

Lights &
Reflectors
Electrical Line	Exhaust
Glad Hand
Service &
Emergency
Airlines	Drive Shaft
	Drive Shaft
Battery Box &
Batteries
Frame	Catwalk

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

FRONT OF TRAILER

HEADER BOARD

oNo holes or missing rivets

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS

oNone broken, cracked, or missing

oWorking and proper color of amber

Lights

Header Board

Height Sticker

Electric Hookup

Air Line

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

DRIVE AXLE SUSPENSION

CONTROL ARM MOUNT o Mounted securely

o Not bent, broken or damaged

CONTROLARM

oMounted securely – front, back, and

U-bolts

o Not cracked, or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

o Mounted Securely

oNot bent, dented or leaking

TORSION BAR

oMounted Securely

oNot bent, broken or damaged

AIR BAGS

oMounted Securely

o Not leaking

Spring Brake	Torsion Bar
Spring Brake
Chamber	Control Arm
	Control Arm
Spring Brake
Chamber	Air Bag
	Air Bag
	Control Arm
	Mount
Control Arm

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

DRIVE AXLE SUSPENSION CON’T & FIFTH WHEEL

CONTROL ARM MOUNT o Mounted securely

o Not bent, broken or damaged

CONTROLARM

oMounted securely – front, back, and

U-bolts

o Not cracked, or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

o Mounted Securely

oNot bent, dented or leaking

TORSION BAR

oMounted Securely

oNot bent, broken or damaged

AIR BAGS

oMounted Securely

o Not leaking

Skid Plate
	Shock Absorber
Mounting
Bolts
Locking	Spring
Locking
Pins
Control Arm	Air Bag
Control Arm
Mount
	Tire
Control Arm
	Space

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

HOSES AND LINES o Mounted securely o Not leaking

o Not cracked or frayed

CHAMBER

o Mounted securely

oNot dented or damaged

oNot leaking

SLACK ADJUSTER

oNo more than 1 inch of free play at the push rod with the brakes released.

oNo bent, broken, loose, or missing parts

DRUMS

oNot cracked, broken or dented

oNo oil leaking from inner oil seal, free of debris

LININGS

oNo cracked, broken or missing parts

oNot less than ¼ inch in thickness

DRIVE BRAKES & DRIVE SHAFT

Drive Shaft

Universal Joint

Differential

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Line

Service Brake Chamber

Frame

Brake Chamber Mount

Slack Adjuster

TIRES

oProper inflation - company or manufacturer specification.

o No bulges or cuts, can have retreads o Minimum tread depth of 2/32”

RIMS

oNot bent or cracked

oNo welding repairs

LUG NUTS

oNone missing

oTight – no shinny threads, or rust trails

OUTER AXLE SEAL

oNot leaking, no missing bolts

SPACE OR SPACER

oCheck for objects between wheels

oCheck for proper spacing

Lug Nuts

Outer Axle Seal

DRIVE WHEELS

Tire

Bud Rim

Dayton Rim	Spacer
Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items	Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

REAR OF TRACTOR

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS o Not cracked, or broken

o Working and proper color

SPLASH GUARDS

oNot missing or torn and properly mounted

Locking Jaws
	Reflectors
	Lights
Splash Guard	Air Bags

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

MOUNTING BOLTS

oNone missing or broken

RELEASE ARM

oNot bent, broken, or damaged

oEngaged in the lock position

LOCKING PINS

oNo missing or broken parts

oEngaged and locked

PLATFORM

oSecurely holds skid plate

oNot cracked, or broken

SKID PLATE

oMounted properly on the platform

oProperly greased

oTilting freely

Mounting Bolts

Slide Stops (all 4 corners)

COUPLING SYSTEM

Skid Plate

Pivot Pin

Release Arm

Platform

 KING PIN

Welds

oNot broken, bent, or damaged

APRON

oNo bends or damage to visible portions

GAP

oCheck that the trailer apron is lying flat on the fifth wheel skid plate

Frame

Slide Locking Pin

Spring Mount

 JAWS	Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items	Reference Items
 JAWS
o Check that the locking jaws are fully
closed around the shank of the king pin	10

Document Specs

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is designed to ensure that vehicles are safe and roadworthy before departure.
Legal Requirement	Federal law requires commercial drivers to perform a pre-trip inspection as part of their duties.
State Regulations	Each state may have specific regulations governing pre-trip inspections, which should be reviewed by drivers.
Inspection Areas	The checklist covers critical areas such as brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels.
Documentation	Drivers must document their findings on the checklist to maintain compliance and accountability.
Consequences of Non-Compliance	Failure to complete the pre-trip inspection can result in penalties, including fines and vehicle out-of-service orders.
Frequency	The checklist should be completed before each trip to ensure ongoing vehicle safety.
Training	Drivers should receive training on how to properly conduct a pre-trip inspection using the checklist.
Record Keeping	It is important to keep the completed checklists for a specified period as required by law.
Liability	Completing the checklist can help mitigate liability in the event of an accident involving the vehicle.