CDL Pre‑Trip Inspection Manual

Step 1: Document Review & In-Cab Inspection

Required Documents

CDL license current with proper endorsements

Medical examiner's certificate not expired

Previous DVIR reviewed and signed

Registration, insurance, and permits current

In-Cab Checks

All gauges and warning lights checked with key on

Horn, windshield wipers, and heater/defroster work

Mirrors adjusted and seat positioned properly

Emergency equipment: fire extinguisher, triangles, spare fuses

Step 2: Engine Compartment Check

Fluid Levels

Engine oil level between MIN and MAX marks

Coolant level in reservoir (cold check)

Power steering fluid at proper level

Windshield washer fluid reservoir full

Belts, Hoses & Components

Belts have proper tension and no signs of wear

All hoses checked for leaks, cracks, or soft spots

Battery connections clean and secure

No visible leaks under vehicle

Step 3: Air Brake System Tests (CDL Required)

Air Pressure Tests

Air pressure builds to 100+ PSI within 3 minutes

Air leakage rate max 3 PSI/minute (brakes released)

Applied brake leakage max 4 PSI/minute

Low air warning activates at 55-75 PSI

Spring brakes engage between 20-45 PSI

Governor cut-out between 120-140 PSI

Brake adjustment checked using proper procedures

Service and parking brakes hold properly

Step 4: External Walk-Around Inspection

Lights and Reflectors

All lights checked: headlights, turn signals, markers

Reflectors clean and not damaged

Windshield - no cracks in driver's line of sight

License plates clean, visible, and current

Vehicle Body

Fuel tanks secure with no leaks, cap tight

Exhaust system secure, no leaks or damage

Frame and cross members - no cracks or damage

Mud flaps present and not damaged

Step 5: Wheels, Tires & Suspension Inspection

Tire Inspection

Tire pressure checked with gauge (not thumper)

Tread depth: 4/32" steer axle, 2/32" all others

No cuts, bulges, or tread separation

Valve stems have caps and not damaged

Wheels & Suspension

All lug nuts present with no rust streaks

Rims - no cracks, especially around lug holes

Springs/air bags not broken, shifted, or leaking

Shock absorbers secure and not leaking

Step 6: Coupling System (Combination Vehicles)

Fifth Wheel/Coupling

Fifth wheel properly greased and locked

Jaws closed around kingpin

No space between upper and lower fifth wheel

Locking mechanism secure - pull handle won't move

Air lines and electrical cord properly connected

Glad hands sealed and not leaking

Trailer height correct (not too high or low)

Safety chains/cables if equipped

Step 7: Cargo Securement Check

Cargo Security

Cargo doors securely latched

Load properly distributed and balanced

Cargo secured per DOT requirements

Tie-downs meet minimum requirements

Straps, chains, and binders not damaged

No cargo extends beyond legal limits

Placards match hazardous materials (if applicable)

Tarps or covers secure if required

Step 8: Final Checks & Documentation

Final Safety Checks

Start engine - all gauges read normal

Service brakes tested at 5 mph

Mirrors cleaned and adjusted

DVIR completed with all defects noted

All defects reported to maintenance

Inspection report signed and dated

Copy of DVIR kept in vehicle

Route and weather conditions reviewed

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Inspection Time

Driver & Vehicle Information

CDL DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY

Required Documents

In-Cab Checks

Fluid Levels

Belts, Hoses & Components

Air Pressure Tests

Lights and Reflectors

Vehicle Body

Tire Inspection

Wheels & Suspension

Fifth Wheel/Coupling

Cargo Security

Final Safety Checks

Inspection Notes & Defects

CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Summary

CDL Compliance Analysis & Recommendations

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CDL Pre‑Trip Inspection Manual

Inspection Time

Driver & Vehicle Information

CDL DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY

Required Documents

In-Cab Checks

Fluid Levels

Belts, Hoses & Components

Air Pressure Tests

Lights and Reflectors

Vehicle Body

Tire Inspection

Wheels & Suspension

Fifth Wheel/Coupling

Cargo Security

Final Safety Checks

Inspection Notes & Defects

CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Summary

CDL Compliance Analysis & Recommendations