Truck Driver Pre-Trip Safety Checklist: What You Need to Know

Truck drivers must follow some pre-road trip safety protocols to ensure the journey runs as safely and smoothly as possible. While this part of the job might not be the most glamorous or exciting, it’s absolutely essential for road safety and maintaining the reliability of trucking operations. Proper pre-trip inspections reduce the chances of costly breakdowns, violations, or worse—accidents caused by overlooked mechanical issues. Plus, staying diligent with inspections helps keep both drivers and freight safe, while also protecting the company’s reputation.

To make the inspection process easier and more efficient, having a consistent checklist can be a real game-changer. By following a standard procedure each time, drivers can build a habit of identifying potential problems early, ensuring that nothing critical gets missed before hitting the road.

That’s why we’ve put together a pre-trip inspection checklist that covers the essentials most drivers need to look at before a haul. Use it as a foundation for your own pre-trip routine and be sure to take action on any issues you discover—no matter how small they may seem.

1. Submit the Daily Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR)
The first step in any pre-trip process should be submitting your Daily Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR). Under federal regulations, every commercial driver is required to submit a DVIR for each power unit they operate. This applies whether you’re using paper forms or electronic logs, although not all trucking companies enforce the same practices. It’s important to check with your company to understand how often and in what format DVIRs are required.

At the very least, each DVIR should document the condition of key components such as:

Service brakes and parking brakes

Steering mechanism

Lighting devices and reflectors

Tires, wheels, and rims

Horn

Windshield wipers

Rearview mirrors

Emergency equipment

If you’re unsure about the full requirements, the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (ECFR) is a helpful resource to consult. Remember: skipping a DVIR can result in more than just mechanical issues—it could lead to violations and hefty fines during roadside inspections.

2. Inspect Under the Hood
Once your DVIR is squared away, the next step is to inspect under the hood of the truck. This includes checking all major fluids:

Engine oil – Low oil levels can cause engine damage over time.

Coolant – Prevents overheating during long hauls.

Power steering fluid – Ensures smooth handling.

Windshield washer fluid – Keeps your line of sight clear.

Top off any fluids that are low, and always make sure the caps are tightened securely. A loose cap may seem like a small oversight, but it can lead to leaks and even contamination of important components.

While under the hood, take time to visually inspect:

The alternator and water pump

Hoses for cracks or leaks

Wiring connections

The steering pump

Also, scan the engine block to ensure there are no signs of leaks or fluids running down the sides. Any visible drips or wet spots are red flags that should be addressed immediately. Finally, give the brakes, tires, and suspension system a thorough look before continuing your inspection.

3. Check the Back of the Truck
Once you’ve completed your engine bay and front-end inspection, move on to the back of the truck, focusing primarily on the drives and tandems. Tire condition is critical for a safe and fuel-efficient trip.

Make sure the following criteria are met:

Tire pressure should be between 100–110 psi for most long-haul conditions.

Tread depth must be at least 2/32 of an inch (and ideally more).

Any tire under 50 psi is considered unsafe and should be replaced immediately.

Replace any tires that show flat spots—these are often caused by dragging tandems and can severely reduce traction and fuel economy.

Also, inspect the air lines and glad hands to ensure there are no cracks, leaks, or signs of wear. Don’t forget to confirm that lights, brake indicators, and reflectors are working properly. A single non-functioning light could result in a citation during a DOT inspection.

Why This Matters
Taking the time to conduct a proper pre-trip inspection might seem like a hassle when you’re eager to get on the road, but the benefits far outweigh the time investment. Regular inspections:

Prevent roadside breakdowns

Help you avoid expensive repairs down the line

Improve fuel efficiency

Keep you compliant with FMCSA regulations

Most importantly, they help ensure your safety and the safety of others

Experienced truck drivers know that the more diligent you are before departure, the smoother the trip will be. No one wants to find themselves stranded on the side of a highway, calling dispatch about a preventable issue.

In the fast-paced world of trucking, time is money. But safety should always come first. By following a pre-trip checklist and making it part of your daily routine, you not only stay compliant with federal guidelines—you also demonstrate a commitment to professional, responsible driving. Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior or a new driver just starting out, keeping your rig road-ready is one of the best habits you can build.

Safe travels out there—and remember, a quick inspection now can save you hours (or even days) of headache later.
To learn more about our premier asphalt truck driving services, visit our website or call (801) 364-6565. We look forward to working with you.