Fillable checklist

Truck Inspection Checklist: Straight Truck and Tractor Power Unit (Free Printable PDF)

Fillable daily inspection for a commercial straight truck, box, dump, or tractor. Cab, brakes, lights, cargo body, tires. Print blank or save a filled PDF.

Commercial & Fleet Fillable form · 11 sections · 131 checks Download filled or blank PDF and CSV Cross-checked against 49 CFR 392.7, 396.13 and 393.75 · Last verified Aug 31, 2026

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Form details

Truck and inspector

Identify the power unit before you walk it. This header is a daily truck ID block, not a 49 CFR 396.11 end-of-day DVIR and not the 396.17 periodic inspection.

17 fields
Truck and inspector

Inspection station

In cab

Mark N/A on air rows if the truck is hydraulic only, and the reverse if it is air only. 49 CFR 392.7 and 396.13 require you to be satisfied the parts work. This is not a CDL skills-test scoring sheet.

22 items
In cab

Safe entry / parking brake set

Set the parking brake, transmission in park or neutral, chock wheels before a brake demonstration. Face the truck and keep three points of contact when you climb in.

Safe entry / parking brake set: OK, Defect, N/A

Seat and seat belt

Seat securely mounted (49 CFR 393.203(d)). Driver belt present, latches, webbing not cut or excessively worn (49 CFR 393.93).

Seat and seat belt: OK, Defect, N/A

Cab doors

Doors not missing, broken, or sagging shut. Not wired closed so they cannot be opened (49 CFR 393.203(a)).

Cab doors: OK, Defect, N/A

Lighting indicators

Dash left-turn, right-turn, hazard, and high-beam indicators work when those lamps are switched on.

Lighting indicators: OK, Defect, N/A

ABS indicator

If equipped, the dash ABS lamp comes on at start then goes out as the OEM specifies. Unexplained stay-on is a defect.

ABS indicator: OK, Defect, N/A

Gauges

Oil pressure, coolant temperature, voltmeter or ammeter, tachometer, and speedometer show normal OEM readings after start.

Gauges: OK, Defect, N/A

Air pressure gauge (air brakes)

Visible from the driver seat and shows reservoir air in psi or kPa (49 CFR 393.51(c)). Watch it build with the engine running. Mark N/A on a hydraulic-only truck.

Air pressure gauge (air brakes): OK, Defect, N/A

Low air warning (air brakes)

Audible or visible warning must operate continuously at 55 psi (379 kPa) and below, or at one-half of compressor governor cutout, whichever is less (49 CFR 393.51(c)). Use the OEM spec if it is higher. Mark N/A if hydraulic only.

Low air warning (air brakes): OK, Defect, N/A

Air build and audible leaks (air brakes)

Build air with wheels chocked. Listen for leaks at the pedal, valves, and visible lines. Connections must be free of leaks (49 CFR 393.45(d)). Use the OEM procedure. This sheet does not use a CDL skills-test leak-down number. Mark N/A if hydraulic only.

Air build and audible leaks (air brakes): OK, Defect, N/A

Hydraulic brake warning (if equipped)

Warning lamp or signal as 49 CFR 393.51(b) requires for the date of manufacture. Mark N/A on an air-only truck.

Hydraulic brake warning (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Hydraulic pedal reserve (if equipped)

Pedal stays firm with reserve. No fade to the floor. Power assist, if equipped, works. Mark N/A on an air-only truck.

Hydraulic pedal reserve (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Parking brake hold

Parking brake applied. Gently pull against it. The truck must not roll (49 CFR 393.41; 392.7).

Parking brake hold: OK, Defect, N/A

Service brake application

Move a few feet and apply the foot brake. The truck must stop and not pull hard left or right. All brakes with which the vehicle is equipped must be capable of operating (49 CFR 393.48; 392.7).

Service brake application: OK, Defect, N/A

Fire extinguisher

Securely mounted, readily accessible, charged (visual indicator). UL rating at least 5 B:C, or two 4 B:C, on a non-placarded power unit; at least 10 B:C if transporting placarded hazardous materials (49 CFR 393.95).

Fire extinguisher: OK, Defect, N/A

Warning devices

Three bidirectional emergency reflective triangles (FMVSS 125), or at least six fusees where flame devices are allowed. Fusees or flame signals are prohibited on certain explosives, flammable cargo tanks, and compressed-gas-fueled CMVs (49 CFR 393.95).

Warning devices: OK, Defect, N/A

Spare fuses or breakers

Spare electrical fuses if the truck uses fuses, or confirm that the truck uses circuit breakers.

Spare fuses or breakers: OK, Defect, N/A

Windshield

Clean enough to see. No view-area obstruction other than a required inspection sticker. Wipers still get their own row.

Windshield: OK, Defect, N/A

Rear-vision mirrors

Two outside mirrors, one each side, firmly attached, showing the highway to the rear along both sides (49 CFR 393.80). Clean and adjusted from the seat. Interior mirror extra if equipped.

Rear-vision mirrors: OK, Defect, N/A

Wipers and washers

Wiping and washing systems operate (49 CFR 393.78). Blades not torn off. Washers spray.

Wipers and washers: OK, Defect, N/A

Horn

Horn and actuating parts give an adequate, reliable warning signal (49 CFR 393.81; 392.7).

Horn: OK, Defect, N/A

Heater and defroster

Controls identified. Heat and defrost operate so you can keep the windshield clear.

Heater and defroster: OK, Defect, N/A

Clutch / gear selector

If equipped, clutch and shifter select gears as the OEM intends. Starter should not crank in gear. Mark N/A on an automatic with no clutch.

Clutch / gear selector: OK, Defect, N/A

Inspection station

Engine compartment

Engine off for fluid levels. Fluid between add and full is the OEM dipstick, not a 49 CFR numeric fill line. Steering lash is the next station.

15 items
Engine compartment

Hood / cab-tilt latches

Hood securely fastened (49 CFR 393.203(c)). Support it on the stay before you work. Cab-tilt locks engaged before you start the engine.

Hood / cab-tilt latches: OK, Defect, N/A

Engine oil

Engine off. Level between the add and full marks on the dipstick. OEM marks, not a 49 CFR fill line.

Engine oil: OK, Defect, N/A

Coolant

Engine off and cool. Level in the reservoir or sight glass between add and full. Never remove a hot radiator cap.

Coolant: OK, Defect, N/A

Power steering fluid

Level between add and full if the truck has a reservoir. System must not leak. Belts not frayed, cracked, or slipping. Sufficient fluid in the reservoir (49 CFR 393.209(e)). Mark N/A if electric assist with no reservoir.

Power steering fluid: OK, Defect, N/A

Brake fluid (hydraulic only)

Reservoir between add and full if the truck has hydraulic brakes. Mark N/A on air-only.

Brake fluid (hydraulic only): OK, Defect, N/A

Washer fluid

Reservoir present and not empty so washers can work.

Washer fluid: OK, Defect, N/A

Fluid leaks (engine bay)

No puddles. No dripping oil, coolant, fuel, or steering fluid on the engine or ground (49 CFR 396.5).

Fluid leaks (engine bay): OK, Defect, N/A

Hoses

Coolant, steering, and visible air or hydraulic hoses not cracked, swollen, or leaking. Fittings tight. Brake hose must not contact the exhaust or other high-temperature source (49 CFR 393.45(b)).

Hoses: OK, Defect, N/A

Drive belts

Alternator, water pump, A/C, and power-steering belts not frayed, cracked, or slipping (49 CFR 393.209(e) for power steering).

Drive belts: OK, Defect, N/A

Air compressor (if air equipped)

Securely mounted. Drive belt or gear drive in good condition. No loud leaks at fittings. Mark N/A if hydraulic only.

Air compressor (if air equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Steering gear box (visible)

Securely mounted, no cracked housing or brackets, no loose or missing bolts (49 CFR 393.209(d)). Lash is measured in the steering station, not here.

Steering gear box (visible): OK, Defect, N/A

Battery and wiring (if here)

Cables secure, insulation not cracked, terminals not heavily corroded. Hold-down tight. Mark N/A if the battery lives on the frame and you will catch it on the walk.

Battery and wiring (if here): OK, Defect, N/A

Fan and shroud

Fan not contacting the shroud. Shroud secure. No obvious blade damage.

Fan and shroud: OK, Defect, N/A

DEF tank and lines (if equipped)

Tank mounted, cap on, no obvious leak. Mark N/A if the truck has no DEF.

DEF tank and lines (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Exhaust at the manifold (visible)

No audible leak at the manifold or forward pipe you can see without crawling under. Full exhaust routing is the exhaust and fuel station.

Exhaust at the manifold (visible): OK, Defect, N/A

Inspection station

Lights and reflectors

Inspect lamps from outside. 49 CFR 393.11 Table 1 differs for trucks under 80 inches, trucks 80 inches or wider, and truck tractors. Mark N/A where Table 1 does not require that lamp.

19 items
Lights and reflectors

Headlamps (low beam)

Two white headlamps operate on low beam. Lenses proper color, clean, not broken or missing (49 CFR 393.11 Table 1; 393.9).

Headlamps (low beam): OK, Defect, N/A

Headlamps (high beam)

High beams operate and the dash high-beam indicator agrees. Inspect from outside.

Headlamps (high beam): OK, Defect, N/A

Front turn signals

Amber front turn signals flash left and right (49 CFR 393.11).

Front turn signals: OK, Defect, N/A

Front hazard lamps

Front hazards flash with the 4-way switch. The system must flash with ignition on or off (49 CFR 393.11 footnote 12).

Front hazard lamps: OK, Defect, N/A

Front identification lamps

On trucks and tractors 80 inches or wider: three amber ID lamps at the top of the cab (49 CFR 393.11 Table 1, types B and C). Mark N/A if the truck is under 80 inches overall width.

Front identification lamps: OK, Defect, N/A

Front clearance lamps

On vehicles 80 inches or wider: amber clearance lamps mark overall width. On a truck tractor, cab width is acceptable (49 CFR 393.11 footnote 15). Mark N/A if under 80 inches.

Front clearance lamps: OK, Defect, N/A

Front side markers and reflectors

Amber front side-marker lamps and amber front side reflex reflectors, proper color, clean, not broken or missing.

Front side markers and reflectors: OK, Defect, N/A

Intermediate side markers (if over 30 ft)

Amber intermediate side-marker lamps and reflex reflectors near mid-length if the vehicle is more than 30 feet long (49 CFR 393.11). Mark N/A on a short straight truck.

Intermediate side markers (if over 30 ft): OK, Defect, N/A

Tail lamps

Two red tail lamps operate with the light switch (49 CFR 393.11). On a tractor, these are the tractor tails. Do not treat this row as a full trailer lamp walk.

Tail lamps: OK, Defect, N/A

Stop lamps

Two red stop lamps come on with the service brake and go off when released. Not amber (49 CFR 393.11(c); footnote 13).

Stop lamps: OK, Defect, N/A

Rear turn signals

Amber or red rear turns flash left and right. Visible around the body or load.

Rear turn signals: OK, Defect, N/A

Rear hazard lamps

Rear hazards flash with the 4-way switch.

Rear hazard lamps: OK, Defect, N/A

Rear identification lamps

On trucks 80 inches or wider: three red ID lamps at the top of the rear (Table 1 type B). Truck tractors (type C) are not in that rear-ID column. Mark N/A on a tractor or a truck under 80 inches.

Rear identification lamps: OK, Defect, N/A

Rear clearance lamps

Red rear clearance lamps where Table 1 requires them (types B, D, G, H). Mark N/A on a tractor (type C) or a truck under 80 inches.

Rear clearance lamps: OK, Defect, N/A

Rear side markers and reflectors

Red rear side-marker lamps and red rear reflex reflectors, proper color, clean, not broken or missing.

Rear side markers and reflectors: OK, Defect, N/A

License plate lamp

White lamp illuminates a displayed rear plate. Not required if no plate is displayed, or on the rear of a truck tractor while towing (49 CFR 393.11 footnote 11).

License plate lamp: OK, Defect, N/A

Backup lamp

White backup lamp(s) operate in reverse on a bus, truck, or truck tractor (49 CFR 393.11 footnote 14).

Backup lamp: OK, Defect, N/A

Lamps not obscured

Required lamps and reflectors not obscured by the tailboard, load, dirt, or added equipment (49 CFR 393.9).

Lamps not obscured: OK, Defect, N/A

Lenses and reflectors overall

Required lenses proper color, clean, not broken or missing. All required lamps capable of being operated (49 CFR 393.9(a)).

Lenses and reflectors overall: OK, Defect, N/A

Inspection station

Brakes

Mark air rows N/A on a hydraulic truck and hydraulic rows N/A on air. Pushrod stroke uses the 393.47(e) table for that chamber. Do not invent one stroke limit for every truck.

13 items
Brakes

Air brake tubing and hoses

Long and flexible enough, secured against chafing and kinking, not contacting the exhaust (49 CFR 393.45). Mark N/A on a hydraulic-only truck.

Air brake tubing and hoses: OK, Defect, N/A

Hydraulic brake lines and fittings

Lines not leaking, cracked, or chafed. Connections free of leaks (49 CFR 393.45(d)). Mark N/A on an air-only truck.

Hydraulic brake lines and fittings: OK, Defect, N/A

Air connections and fittings

No leaks, constrictions, or damage at fittings (49 CFR 393.45(d)). Mark N/A if hydraulic only.

Air connections and fittings: OK, Defect, N/A

Brake chambers

Service and spring chambers on each end of an axle the same size (49 CFR 393.47(b)). No severe damage or missing parts. Mark N/A if not air, or if you cannot see them without going under the truck.

Brake chambers: OK, Defect, N/A

Slack adjusters (same length)

Effective length of the slack adjuster on each end of an axle must be the same (49 CFR 393.47(c)). Mark N/A if hydraulic, automatic slacks you cannot compare, or not visible.

Slack adjusters (same length): OK, Defect, N/A

Pushrod stroke (if visible)

Stroke must not exceed the 49 CFR 393.47(e) table for that chamber type and size (example: Type 30 standard-stroke clamp chamber, 2 inches). Unlisted actuators: not more than 80 percent of rated stroke, or the manufacturer mark. Do not invent one inch limit for every chamber. Mark N/A if hydraulic or not visible.

Pushrod stroke (if visible): OK, Defect, N/A

Wedge brakes (if equipped)

Scribe-mark movement on the lining not more than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) (49 CFR 393.47(f)). Mark N/A if the truck has no wedge brakes.

Wedge brakes (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Linings or pads (if visible)

If you can see them without teardown: steer-axle air drum not less than 3/16 inch (continuous strip) or 1/4 inch (two pads) at the shoe center, or to the wear indicator; steer air disc not less than 1/8 inch; hydraulic steer not less than 1/16 inch. Non-steer air: 1/4 inch drum or 1/8 inch disc. Non-steer hydraulic: 1/16 inch (49 CFR 393.47(d)). Mark N/A if not visible.

Linings or pads (if visible): OK, Defect, N/A

Drums or rotors (if visible)

Thickness not less than the drum or rotor manufacturer's limit (49 CFR 393.47(g)). No grease or oil on friction surfaces you can see. Mark N/A if not visible.

Drums or rotors (if visible): OK, Defect, N/A

Parking brake hardware

Parking brake capable of holding the truck stationary on a public road free of ice and snow (49 CFR 393.41). Linkage or spring chambers not obviously broken.

Parking brake hardware: OK, Defect, N/A

Brakes operative

All brakes with which the truck is equipped capable of operating (49 CFR 393.48). Lift-axle brakes need not operate while the axle is raised, but must apply when the axle is down.

Brakes operative: OK, Defect, N/A

Air reservoirs and drains

Reservoirs present. Each reservoir has a condensate drain that can be operated manually (49 CFR 393.50(d)). Mark N/A if hydraulic only.

Air reservoirs and drains: OK, Defect, N/A

Gladhands / trailer air (if equipped)

If this power unit is set up to tow, gladhands and tractor protection hardware on the truck are seated and not leaking. Mark N/A on a straight box with no trailer air. Do not use this row as a trailer brake walk.

Gladhands / trailer air (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Inspection station

Steering and suspension

Steering lash limits depend on wheel diameter in 49 CFR 393.209(b). Air-suspension leakage 3 psi in 5 minutes is 393.207(f).

16 items
Steering and suspension

Steering wheel

Secured. No spokes cracked through or missing (49 CFR 393.209(a)).

Steering wheel: OK, Defect, N/A

Steering column

Column securely fastened (49 CFR 393.209(c)).

Steering column: OK, Defect, N/A

Steering lash

Lash must not exceed 49 CFR 393.209(b) for that wheel diameter (example: 18 inch power steering, 4 3/4 inches). Manual systems use the smaller limits. Diameters not in the table: 14 degrees manual, 30 degrees power. Do not invent one Pass/Fail inch for every wheel.

Steering lash: OK, Defect, N/A

Steering travel

Wheel turns freely through the limit of travel both ways (49 CFR 393.209(d)).

Steering travel: OK, Defect, N/A

Power steering operation

Components in operating condition. No loose or broken parts. System shall not leak. Sufficient fluid (49 CFR 393.209(e)). Mark N/A if manual steering.

Power steering operation: OK, Defect, N/A

Steering joints and pitman

Universal joints and ball-and-socket joints not worn, faulty, or repaired by welding. Pitman arm not loose on the output shaft (49 CFR 393.209(d)).

Steering joints and pitman: OK, Defect, N/A
Tie rod and drag link: OK, Defect, N/A

Axles and positioning parts

No axle positioning part cracked, broken, loose, or missing. Axles in proper alignment (49 CFR 393.207(a)).

Axles and positioning parts: OK, Defect, N/A

Leaf springs

No leaf cracked, broken, missing, or shifted out of position (49 CFR 393.207(c)). Mark N/A if this axle is not leaf-sprung.

Leaf springs: OK, Defect, N/A

Coil springs

No coil spring cracked or broken (49 CFR 393.207(d)). Mark N/A if not coil-sprung.

Coil springs: OK, Defect, N/A

Torsion bar (if equipped)

No torsion bar or torsion-bar suspension cracked or broken (49 CFR 393.207(e)). Mark N/A if not equipped.

Torsion bar (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Air suspension (if equipped)

Vehicle level, not tilting left or right. Air leakage not greater than 3 psi in 5 minutes at normal brake pressure. Regulator must not feed the bags until at least 55 psi is in the braking system (49 CFR 393.207(f)). Mark N/A if steel springs only.

Air suspension (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Shock absorbers

If equipped, shocks secure, not damaged, not leaking oil. Mark N/A if not equipped.

Shock absorbers: OK, Defect, N/A

U-bolts and spring mounts

Visible U-bolts present. Mounts not cracked, broken, or missing parts.

U-bolts and spring mounts: OK, Defect, N/A

Adjustable / lift axle pins

Locking pins not missing or disengaged (49 CFR 393.207(b)). Mark N/A if the truck has no adjustable or lift axle.

Adjustable / lift axle pins: OK, Defect, N/A

Front bumper

Not missing, loosely attached, or protruding so as to create a hazard (49 CFR 393.203(e)).

Front bumper: OK, Defect, N/A

Inspection station

Frame, fifth wheel, or pintle

Straight box with no coupling: mark fifth-wheel and pintle rows N/A. A tractor still inspects the fifth wheel here, then uses the published CMV pre-trip form for the trailer.

10 items
Frame, fifth wheel, or pintle

Frame or chassis

Not cracked, loose, sagging, or broken (49 CFR 393.201(a)).

Frame or chassis: OK, Defect, N/A

Frame rail flanges

Flanges between the axles not bent, cut, or notched except as the manufacturer specifies (49 CFR 393.201(c)).

Frame rail flanges: OK, Defect, N/A

Holes in rail flanges

No holes drilled in the top or bottom rail flanges except as the manufacturer specifies (49 CFR 393.201(e)).

Holes in rail flanges: OK, Defect, N/A

Frame welds and add-ons

Parts not welded to the frame except per the vehicle manufacturer. Any welded repair of the frame must follow the manufacturer (49 CFR 393.201(d)).

Frame welds and add-ons: OK, Defect, N/A

Cab and body mounts

Bolts or brackets securing the cab or the body to the frame not loose, broken, or missing (49 CFR 393.201(b); 393.203(b)).

Cab and body mounts: OK, Defect, N/A

Fifth wheel mounting (if equipped)

Lower fifth wheel secured to the frame with brackets or equivalent, plus a device that prevents the lower half from shifting (49 CFR 393.70(b)(1)). No cracks, warping, or frame deformation from the install. Mark N/A on a straight box with no fifth wheel.

Fifth wheel mounting (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Fifth wheel lock (if equipped)

Locking mechanism prevents separation unless a positive manual release is activated (49 CFR 393.70(b)(2)). Jaws closed if a trailer is coupled. Mark N/A if no fifth wheel. Walk the trailer itself on the published CMV pre-trip form, not here.

Fifth wheel lock (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Pintle or hitch (if equipped)

Pintle or equivalent securely mounted. Frame reinforced as 49 CFR 393.70(c) requires. No loose bolts, cracks, or obvious wear. Mark N/A if the truck has no pintle or ball hitch.

Pintle or hitch (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Safety-chain anchors (if equipped)

Safety devices attach to the towing-vehicle frame, not to the pintle hook itself (49 CFR 393.70(d)(1)). Mark N/A if no full-trailer coupling.

Safety-chain anchors (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Coupling air and electrical (on the truck)

If equipped to tow: truck-side gladhands, 7-way, and mounts not cut, dragging, or leaking. Mark N/A if this unit never tows. Do not copy a trailer lamp and tandem list onto this row.

Coupling air and electrical (on the truck): OK, Defect, N/A

Inspection station

Cargo body, dump, box, or liftgate

Tractor-only: mark cargo-body rows N/A and walk the trailer on the published CMV pre-trip form. Dump and liftgate rows are N/A if the truck does not have them.

12 items
Cargo body, dump, box, or liftgate

Cargo-body mounts

Body-to-frame bolts or brackets not loose, broken, or missing (49 CFR 393.203(b)). Mark N/A on a tractor with no cargo body.

Cargo-body mounts: OK, Defect, N/A

Box, van, or bed structure

Floor, walls, and roof (or dump bed) free of holes or breaks that would lose cargo or injure a loader. Mark N/A on a tractor.

Box, van, or bed structure: OK, Defect, N/A

Doors, hinges, and locks

Swing or roll-up doors close and latch. Hinges and locking bars secure. Mark N/A if no cargo doors (open dump, tractor).

Doors, hinges, and locks: OK, Defect, N/A

Tailgate, tailboard, tarps, spare

Tailgate, tailboard, tarpaulins, spare tire, and other equipment used in operation are secured (49 CFR 392.9(a)(2)). Mark N/A on a tractor.

Tailgate, tailboard, tarps, spare: OK, Defect, N/A

Liftgate (if equipped)

Platform stowed and latched for travel. No broken welds, leaking hydraulics, or missing pins you can see. Controls not dragging. Mark N/A if not equipped. 49 CFR 392.9 treats this as equipment that must be secured; it does not publish a liftgate stroke limit.

Liftgate (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Dump bed, hoist, and PTO (if dump)

Bed down and latched for travel unless you are dumping. No obvious hoist leak. PTO disengaged for the road. Use the OEM body procedure. Mark N/A if not a dump.

Dump bed, hoist, and PTO (if dump): OK, Defect, N/A

Dump tailgate and body props (if dump)

Tailgate latched. Body safety props used whenever anyone goes under a raised bed (OEM / shop practice, not a 49 CFR inch limit). Mark N/A if not a dump.

Dump tailgate and body props (if dump): OK, Defect, N/A

Cargo distribution and securement

If a load is on this truck: properly distributed and secured under 49 CFR 393.100 through 393.136 before you drive (49 CFR 392.9(a)(1)). Recheck within the first 50 miles, then every 3 hours or 150 miles, whichever comes first, unless a sealed-load exception applies. Mark N/A if empty and no cargo devices to inspect, or if you are a tractor using the combo pre-trip for the trailer.

Cargo distribution and securement: OK, Defect, N/A

View and emergency access

Cargo or objects do not obscure the view ahead or to the sides, block arm or leg movement, block emergency equipment, or block exit from the cab (49 CFR 392.9(a)(3)).

View and emergency access: OK, Defect, N/A

Rear impact guard (if required)

On a truck (not a truck tractor) with rear bottom edge more than 30 inches off the ground empty: rear impact guard present and attached (49 CFR 393.86(b)). Mark N/A on a tractor, a wheels-back or low-chassis exemption, or a body that itself provides equivalent protection.

Rear impact guard (if required): OK, Defect, N/A

Header board / bulkhead (if equipped)

Secure, not cracked through in a way that would fail to protect the cab. Mark N/A if not equipped.

Header board / bulkhead (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Mud flaps / splash guards (if equipped)

Present and secure if the truck is equipped. Not a 392.7 list item. Mark N/A if not equipped.

Mud flaps / splash guards (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Inspection station

Tires, wheels, and rims

Front tread 4/32 inch is 49 CFR 393.75(b). Other tires 2/32 inch is 393.75(c). NHTSA 570.62 uses the same pair of numbers for in-use inspection.

14 items
Tires, wheels, and rims

Steering-axle inflation

Check with a gauge, not a mallet. Cold inflation at least the pressure specified for the load (49 CFR 393.75(i)). Valve stems accessible, not broken. Caps present if the fleet uses them.

Steering-axle inflation: OK, Defect, N/A

Steering-axle tire condition

No body ply or belt material exposed, no tread or sidewall separation, not flat, no audible leak, no cut that exposes ply (49 CFR 393.75(a)). No bulges.

Steering-axle tire condition: OK, Defect, N/A

Steering-axle tread depth

At least 4/32 inch in a major tread groove on front tires of a bus, truck, or truck tractor. Do not measure on tie bars, humps, or fillets (49 CFR 393.75(b)). NHTSA 49 CFR 570.62 uses the same 4/32 front figure for in-use inspection of vehicles other than trailers.

Steering-axle tread depth: OK, Defect, N/A

Front tire type

No regrooved tire with load capacity 4,920 lb or greater on the front of a truck or truck tractor (49 CFR 393.75(e)). No recapped, regrooved, or retreaded tires on the front of a bus (393.75(d)).

Front tire type: OK, Defect, N/A

Other-axle inflation

Drive, tag, and pusher tires: gauge inflation for the load (49 CFR 393.75(i)).

Other-axle inflation: OK, Defect, N/A

Other-axle tire condition

Same 393.75(a) defects as the steer axle: exposed ply, separation, flat, ply-exposing cut.

Other-axle tire condition: OK, Defect, N/A

Other-axle tread depth

At least 2/32 inch in a major tread groove on tires that are not front steering-axle tires (49 CFR 393.75(c)). 570.62 uses the same 2/32 figure for those tires.

Other-axle tread depth: OK, Defect, N/A

Dual match

Duals not obviously mismatched in size or construction. 393.75 does not publish a dual-diameter inch limit. NHTSA 570.62 (in-use) uses 1/2 inch overall diameter as a state-inspection procedure, not an FMCSA 393 operating number on this sheet.

Dual match: OK, Defect, N/A

Wheels and rims

Not cracked or broken (49 CFR 393.205(a)). No obvious bent rim or weld repair you can see from the side.

Wheels and rims: OK, Defect, N/A

Bolt holes

Stud or bolt holes not elongated / out of round (49 CFR 393.205(b)).

Bolt holes: OK, Defect, N/A

Nuts, bolts, and studs

Nuts or bolts not missing or loose (49 CFR 393.205(c)). No rust trails or shiny threads that show a spinner. No broken studs.

Nuts, bolts, and studs: OK, Defect, N/A

Valve stems

Accessible, not cracked or broken. Caps present if used.

Valve stems: OK, Defect, N/A

Speed-restricted tires

Tires labeled with a maximum speed of 55 mph or less must not be run faster than that rating (49 CFR 393.75(f)). Mark N/A if none are so labeled.

Speed-restricted tires: OK, Defect, N/A

Tire load rating

Tires not carrying more weight than marked on the sidewall, unless a state special permit and reduced speed apply (49 CFR 393.75(g)).

Tire load rating: OK, Defect, N/A

Inspection station

Exhaust and fuel

Walk the frame rails. 49 CFR 393.83 sets exhaust location and leak rules. 393.65 and 393.67 cover tanks, caps, and lines.

10 items
Exhaust and fuel

Exhaust fastened

Exhaust system securely fastened to the vehicle (49 CFR 393.83(h)). Hangers may allow heat expansion (393.83(i)).

Exhaust fastened: OK, Defect, N/A

Exhaust discharge location

On a truck or truck tractor, discharge to the rear of the cab, or if the stack projects above the cab, near the rear of the cab (49 CFR 393.83(e)).

Exhaust discharge location: OK, Defect, N/A

No leak under the cab

No part of the exhaust shall leak or discharge at a point forward of or directly below the driver or sleeper compartment (49 CFR 393.83(g)).

No leak under the cab: OK, Defect, N/A

Exhaust vs fuel tank

No exhaust discharge immediately below the fuel tank or filler pipe (49 CFR 393.83(b)). Location must not likely burn wiring, fuel, or combustible parts (393.83(a)).

Exhaust vs fuel tank: OK, Defect, N/A

No wrap or patch repairs

No part of the exhaust temporarily repaired with wrap or patches (49 CFR 393.83(f)).

No wrap or patch repairs: OK, Defect, N/A

Fuel tanks mounted

Each fuel tank securely attached (49 CFR 393.65(c)). No part of the system extends beyond the widest part of the vehicle (393.65(b)(1)). Tank not forward of the front axle of the power unit (393.65(b)(2)).

Fuel tanks mounted: OK, Defect, N/A

Fuel caps

Each fill pipe fitted with a cap that can be fastened securely (49 CFR 393.67(c)(7)(v)). Fill openings outside the passenger and cargo compartments (393.65(b)(4)).

Fuel caps: OK, Defect, N/A

Fuel leaks and lines

No dripping fuel. Lines long and flexible enough, secured against chafing and kinking (49 CFR 393.65(f)). Diesel crossover lines that hang below the tank protected against impact.

Fuel leaks and lines: OK, Defect, N/A

Two-tank selector (if equipped)

If a driver-operated selector feeds two or more tanks, it is usable as 49 CFR 393.65(e) requires. Mark N/A if one tank.

Two-tank selector (if equipped): OK, Defect, N/A

Battery box (if on the frame)

Box or cover secure, cables not chafed on the frame. Mark N/A if you already passed the under-hood battery row and there is no frame box.

Battery box (if on the frame): OK, Defect, N/A

Form details

Defects and sign-off

List defects found on this truck. Sign when you are satisfied it is safe to drive, or do not dispatch it. This is not a substitute 49 CFR 396.11 DVIR.

8 fields
Defects and sign-off

Draw your signature, or upload an image to replace it.

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Download a filled or blank PDF, or a CSV. Answers stay in this tab. The next visitor sees a blank form.

References

  1. 49 CFR 392.7 Equipment, inspection and use - eCFR
  2. 49 CFR 392.9 Inspection of cargo, cargo securement devices and systems - eCFR
  3. 49 CFR 396.11 Driver vehicle inspection report(s) - eCFR
  4. 49 CFR 396.13 Driver inspection - eCFR
  5. 49 CFR 396.17 Periodic inspection (12-month contrast) - eCFR
  6. 49 CFR Part 396 Inspection, repair, and maintenance (396.3, 396.5, 396.7) - eCFR
  7. FMCSA Motor Carrier Safety Planner 5.2.2 Vehicle Inspections (396.11, 396.13, 396.17)
  8. FMCSA interpretation: inspect both power unit and trailer (396.11 Q2)
  9. 49 CFR 393.9 Lamps operable, prohibition of obstructions - eCFR
  10. 49 CFR 393.11 Lamps and reflective devices (Table 1) - eCFR
  11. 49 CFR 393.41 Parking brake system - eCFR
  12. 49 CFR 393.45 Brake tubing and hoses - eCFR
  13. 49 CFR 393.47 Brake actuators, slack adjusters, linings, drums (pushrod table) - eCFR
  14. 49 CFR 393.48 Brakes to be operative - eCFR
  15. 49 CFR 393.51 Warning signals, air pressure and vacuum gauges - eCFR
  16. 49 CFR 393.65 All fuel systems - eCFR
  17. 49 CFR 393.67 Liquid fuel tanks - eCFR
  18. 49 CFR 393.70 Coupling devices and towing methods - eCFR
  19. 49 CFR 393.75 Tires (4/32 front, 2/32 other, condition, inflation) - eCFR
  20. 49 CFR 570.62 Tires (NHTSA in-use: 4/32 front, 2/32 other) - eCFR
  21. 49 CFR 393.78 Windshield wiping and washing systems - eCFR
  22. 49 CFR 393.80 Rear-vision mirrors - eCFR
  23. 49 CFR 393.81 Horn - eCFR
  24. 49 CFR 393.83 Exhaust systems - eCFR
  25. 49 CFR 393.86 Rear impact guards and rear end protection - eCFR
  26. 49 CFR 393.93 Seats, seat belt assemblies, and anchorages - eCFR
  27. 49 CFR 393.95 Emergency equipment on all power units - eCFR
  28. 49 CFR 393.201 Frames - eCFR
  29. 49 CFR 393.203 Cab and body components - eCFR
  30. 49 CFR 393.205 Wheels - eCFR
  31. 49 CFR 393.207 Suspension systems - eCFR
  32. 49 CFR 393.209 Steering wheel systems - eCFR

Printable checklist PDF and image

Blank printable PDF and a preview image of this checklist.

Truck Inspection Checklist: Straight Truck and Tractor Power Unit blank checklist
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Truck Inspection Checklist: Straight Truck and Tractor Power Unit blank checklist
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These checklists are provided for general reference only. Always verify the steps against the vehicle manufacturer's service information, your shop's procedures or a qualified technician before relying on them, especially for safety-critical work.

What this truck form is for

This is used as a daily or shift inspection on a commercial power unit. The tractor do not pull the trailer, flatbed, tank truck, dump truck, etc.

On the screen you fill out the form and then download it as a CSV or PDF file. The record will show who did the inspection. It will list the OK/Defect/N/A marks for each station, any defect noted, and the sign-off.

Federal rules behind this look: 49 CFR 392.7 (be satisfied specified parts work before you drive), 49 CFR 396.13 (safe condition, review the last DVIR), and the parts rules in 49 CFR Part 393. The FMCSA Motor Carrier Safety Planner separates this driver look from the end-of-day DVIR and from the 12-month periodic inspection.

What it is not

  • It is not the published Class A tractor-and-trailer walkaround. For coupling plus trailer lamps, landing gear, and trailer axles, use the CMV pre-trip inspection checklist. Mark cargo-body rows N/A on a tractor and do not paste that trailer list onto this truck sheet.
  • It is not a 49 CFR 396.11 end-of-day driver vehicle inspection report. File that on the CMV post-trip DVIR at the completion of the day's work. FMCSA still reads 396.11 as covering the power unit and a trailer when you run a combination.
  • It is not the CDL vehicle inspection skills test, and it is not a 396.17 periodic (annual) inspection. Name those in plain text if you need them. Do not score this sheet as an examiner Pass/Fail.
  • It is not a trailer-only inspection, a light-vehicle PPI, or a used-car driveway walk.

How to fill each block

Truck and inspector. Date, name, unit, VIN or plate, body type, and brake type come first. Body type tells you which cargo and coupling rows to mark N/A. Brake type tells you which air or hydraulic rows to skip. Check that you reviewed the last DVIR (396.13) and that listed defects were certified repaired or certified unnecessary.

In cab. Seat and belt (393.93, 393.203), gauges, wipers (393.78), horn (393.81), mirrors (393.80), and emergency equipment (393.95). On air brakes, confirm the gauge and the low-air warning at 55 psi or half of governor cutout, whichever is less (393.51(c)). On hydraulic brakes, use the warning lamp and a firm pedal with reserve (393.51(b)). Parking brake must hold (393.41). Mark the system you do not have N/A.

Engine compartment. Engine off. Fluids at the OEM add/full marks. No leaks (396.5). Power steering must not leak (393.209(e)). Never remove a hot radiator cap.

Lights and reflectors. Operate every required lamp from outside (393.9; 393.11 Table 1). Trucks 80 inches or wider need front ID and clearance lamps. Truck tractors are type C in that table: they do not use the same rear ID column as a wide straight truck. Hazards must flash with the ignition off (footnote 12). Stop lamps must not be amber (393.11(c)).

Brakes. Lines and fittings leak-free (393.45). Brakes operative (393.48). If chambers and slacks are visible, same size and same effective length per axle, and pushrod stroke not beyond the 393.47(e) table for that chamber (Type 30 standard-stroke clamp is 2 inches; other types differ). Lining numbers in 393.47(d) apply when you can see the lining. Mark the other brake system N/A.

Steering and suspension. Wheel, column, and lash from the 393.209(b) table (example: 18 inch power steering, 4 3/4 inches). Springs, axle positioning parts, and air ride from 393.207. Air-suspension leakage not greater than 3 psi in 5 minutes at normal brake pressure, and no bag fill until at least 55 psi is in the braking system (393.207(f)).

Frame, fifth wheel, or pintle. Frame not cracked, sagging, or broken (393.201). Fifth wheel and pintle only if equipped (393.70). A straight box with no coupling marks those rows N/A. Safety chains attach to the frame, not to the pintle hook (393.70(d)(1)).

Cargo body, dump, box, or liftgate. Straight-truck body, doors, tarps, and equipment secured (392.9). Dump bed and liftgate rows are N/A if the truck does not have them. A tractor marks this station N/A and uses the published pre-trip for the trailer. Rear impact guards on many trucks (not truck tractors) are 393.86(b).

Tires, wheels, and rims. Gauge inflation for the load (393.75(i)). Front tread at least 4/32 inch (393.75(b)). Other tires at least 2/32 inch (393.75(c)). 49 CFR 570.62 (NHTSA in-use) uses the same 4/32 and 2/32 pair. Wheels not cracked, bolt holes not elongated, nuts not missing or loose (393.205).

Exhaust and fuel. Fastened, correct discharge location, no leak under the cab, no discharge under the fuel filler, no wrap repairs (393.83). Tanks mounted, caps fastened, lines not chafing (393.65, 393.67).

The defects is listed by you. Is it going to be fixed? Can it be sent out without causing problems? Or does it get put in your yard?

You don’t drive anything that has a reasonable possibility of breaking down or otherwise being unsafe under section 396.7. When you’re happy with its safety condition, you sign off on it, otherwise it stays in the yard.

What varies

Hydraulic vs air system will turn on and off certain brake rows and in-cab rows. Box truck vs tractor changes cargo-body and rear-ID rows.

Depending on whether the vehicle width is more or less than 80 inches, specific rows such as section 393.11: clearance lamps and IDs will be turned on or off. Section 396.17 allows states to adopt equivalent rules or create a sticker program. Section 392.7 lists items that could of be added by fleet policy (e.g., reefer) but isn't limited to those listed.

Section 393 does not give a single number per truck for pushrod stroke, lining thickness, or steering lash. It’s tables. Use the steering-wheel diameter in front of you, plus the chamber type and the lining type.

Section 570.62 is an in-use procedure where both overall diameters is within 1/2 inch of each other. Section 393.75 doesn’t list such a figure.

If you couple a trailer, FMCSA 396.11 Q2 still expects you to be satisfied the trailer is safe before you pull it. That walk is the published pre-trip form, not extra rows invented on this truck sheet.

After you finish

That half-inch isn’t treated on this form like some kind of FMCSA tick limit. If you want a copy that takes it out of this tab, then download a filled PDF or CSV. The answers remain here in this browser, a blank form will be seen by the next visitor.

Before it is dispatched, you provide the defects list to the carrier. At the end of the day if you are required to write a report (section 396.11), then you fill out that DVIR as a separate document.

It does not file anywhere with the FMCSA. It is not a replacement for the procedure provided by the vehicle manufacturer that is kept in the cab.

Here is the form: The form appears above. Below the form is the printable pdf and the preview image.

Not a substitute for the OEM or a licensed inspection

This is not legal advice. This is a record keeping template. This does not replace a state or licensed roadside inspection, a section 396.17 periodic inspection, or the vehicle's OEM procedure.

Do not invent your own Pass/Fail limit if a tread, stroke, lash, or warning number is not in the 49 CFR sections noted herein.