Truck Inspection Checklist

A DOT-style pre-trip inspection for commercial trucks covering tires, brakes, lights, coupling, fluids and load securement.

Published July 15, 2026

Engine Compartment & Fluids

Check engine oil level and condition
Check coolant level and inspect the radiator
Check power steering and washer fluid
Inspect belts and hoses for cracks or wear
Look for leaks under the engine and components
Check the battery is secure with clean connections

Tires & Wheels

Check tire pressure and inflate to spec
Measure tread depth against the legal minimum
Inspect for cuts, bulges, uneven wear or debris
Check for missing or loose lug nuts and rust streaks
Inspect rims for cracks or damage
Confirm dual tires are not touching and valve caps are present

Brakes & Air System

Perform an air brake leak-down and build-up test
Check the low-air warning and emergency brake function
Inspect brake chambers, slack adjusters and linings
Check brake drums or rotors for cracks or wear
Inspect air lines and connections for leaks or damage
Drain air tanks of moisture as required

Lights & Signals

Test headlights on low and high beam
Check brake lights, tail lights and turn signals
Confirm clearance, marker and reflector lights work
Test the four-way hazard flashers
Check the horn and backup alarm
Clean lenses and reflectors for visibility

Coupling & Trailer

Confirm the fifth wheel is locked with no gap
Check the locking jaws are closed around the kingpin
Inspect the kingpin and apron for damage
Check that the release arm is in the locked position
Connect and inspect air lines and the electrical cord
Check landing gear is fully raised and secured
Inspect the trailer frame, doors and mud flaps

Cab & Load Securement

Test steering play, mirrors and the windshield
Check seat belt, gauges and warning lights
Confirm the fire extinguisher and emergency triangles are present
Verify the load is secured, balanced and within weight limits
Inspect straps, chains, tarps and tie-downs
Confirm required permits and paperwork are aboard

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A truck inspection checklist is a pre-trip routine commercial drivers run before driving — checking tires, brakes, lights, the coupling system, fluids and load securement. It catches defects that could cause a breakdown, crash or violation before the truck leaves the yard.

This list follows the structure of a DOT-style pre-trip inspection used across the trucking industry, walking the vehicle from the engine compartment to the cab, trailer and lights. It is a safety supplement and a general guide, not a substitute for your company's procedures, the regulations that apply to you, or repairs by a qualified technician.

It suits drivers and operators of tractor-trailers, straight trucks and other commercial vehicles, with the same logic scaling across rigs. Always follow the official inspection requirements for your jurisdiction and document defects properly.

Print it or download the PDF and keep it in the cab so you can work through each section before every trip.

FAQ

What is a pre-trip inspection?

A pre-trip inspection is a systematic walk-around and operational check a commercial driver performs before driving, covering tires, brakes, lights, coupling, fluids and the load. It confirms the truck is safe and roadworthy and is required by regulations in many jurisdictions.

How long does a truck inspection take?

A thorough pre-trip inspection typically takes around fifteen minutes once it is routine, longer when defects are found. Rushing it defeats the purpose; the goal is to find problems in the yard rather than discover them on the road.

What should I check on the coupling system?

Confirm the fifth wheel is locked with no gap, the kingpin is seated, the locking jaws are closed, the release arm is in position, and air and electrical lines are connected and free of leaks or damage. A bad coupling can cause a trailer to separate.

What if I find a defect during inspection?

Document the defect, report it per your company's procedures and do not operate the truck if the defect makes it unsafe or out of compliance. Have repairs done by a qualified technician and keep records as required by the regulations that apply to you.

Can I print this truck inspection checklist?

Yes. Print it or download the PDF so you can keep it in the cab and work through tires, brakes, lights, coupling, fluids and load checks before every trip.