A pre-trip inspection is one of the most important habits a professional truck driver develops. It protects you, your equipment, and everyone else on the road. It also plays a major role in passing the CDL skills test and avoiding violations during roadside inspections.
This guide breaks down the pre-trip inspection checklist step by step, using the same structure examiners expect and experienced drivers rely on every day. Whether you’re preparing for your CDL test or tightening up your daily routine, this walkthrough covers what to check, what to say, and how to stay consistent.
A pre-trip inspection is a required safety check performed before operating a commercial motor vehicle. Federal regulations require drivers to be satisfied that their vehicle is in safe operating condition before driving.
In simple terms, a pre-trip inspection confirms that nothing is broken, leaking, loose, or unsafe. Catching problems early prevents breakdowns, accidents, vehicle maintenance out-of-service orders, and expensive repairs.
For CDL testing, examiners aren’t just watching what you check. They’re listening to how you explain it. Clear, confident verbalization matters just as much as the inspection itself when testing for your CDL.
The easiest way to pass a pre-trip inspection for your CDL is consistency.
Pick a walk-around order and never change it. Start in the same place every time and move in the same direction. Touch each component as you explain it. Say what it is, what you’re checking, and confirm that it’s in safe operating condition.
Always use three points of contact when entering or exiting the cab. Keep one hand or foot planted at all times. Examiners watch for this.
Most importantly, slow down. Rushing leads to missed items and forgotten steps, especially during brake and coupling checks.
Start inside the cab. Check that your seat belt is securely mounted, not frayed or cut, and latches properly. Verify that your fire extinguisher is fully charged, properly mounted, and easily accessible.
Confirm that you have three reflective warning triangles and any required spare fuses. When exiting the cab, use three points of contact.
With the engine running, check your oil pressure gauge to ensure it rises to normal range. Watch coolant temperature and voltage gauges for normal readings.
Check that air pressure builds properly, typically reaching governor cut-out around the expected range. Test city and air horns to confirm they are loud and working.
Verify windshield wipers and washer fluid operate correctly. Check mirrors and windshield for cracks, obstructions, or illegal stickers. Ensure the heater and defroster function properly.
Open the hood securely. Look for fluid leaks under the engine and along hoses and fittings. Check oil, coolant, and power steering fluid levels where visible.
Inspect belts and hoses for cracks, frays, or signs of rubbing. Confirm that the alternator, air compressor, and other engine components are securely mounted.
Nothing should be leaking, loose, or damaged.
At the front of the vehicle, check headlights, turn signals, four-way flashers, and clearance lights. Lights should be clean, properly colored, not cracked, and securely mounted.
Inspect the grill and radiator area for obstructions or damage. Look for loose wires, dangling hoses, or anything that could interfere with safe operation.
Inspect each tire using the ABC method. Look for abrasions, bulges, and cuts. Tread depth should meet legal minimums, and there should be no exposed cords.
Check that tires are properly inflated and evenly worn. Many drivers like to short cut this process and test for tire inflation by hitting the tire with a club or pipe to listen for the sound. This is not an effective way to test for proper air pressure and can lead to tires being improperly worn if a neighboring tire is more inflated and supporting more of the load.
Inspect rims for cracks, bends, or welds. Check lug nuts for tightness and rust trails, which can indicate looseness.
Look at the hub seal for proper fluid level and no leaks. Valve stems should not be cracked or leaking and should have caps.
Check springs or airbags for damage, cracks, or leaks. U-bolts and mounts should be secure. Shock absorbers should be mounted properly with no leaks.
If you notice a leak in one of your air lines you can learn to change out your air hoses by reading this article: How to replace damaged air lines
Brake inspections deserve extra attention.
Check brake hoses and lines for cuts, abrasions, or leaks. Brake chambers should be secure and not cracked. Slack adjusters should have limited play and be properly connected.
Inspect brake drums and linings where visible. Nothing should be broken, leaking, or dangerously worn.
Check the fifth wheel for secure mounting, proper lubrication, and no visible cracks. Ensure the locking jaws are fully engaged around the kingpin.
There should be no gap between the fifth wheel and trailer apron. Inspect the kingpin for damage or bends.
Check air lines and electrical cord for proper connection, no leaks, and no exposed wires. Glad hands should be sealed and secure.
Inspect the trailer frame, crossmembers, and floor for cracks or damage. Check side marker lights and reflectors for proper operation.
Landing gear should be fully raised, secure, and not damaged. Trailer doors and latches must close and latch properly.
Check brake lights, turn signals, and clearance lights. Inspect DOT reflective tape for cleanliness and visibility. Mud flaps should be present and secure.
Perform the air brake test slowly and clearly.
With the engine running, allow air pressure to build to normal operating range. Turn the engine off, release the parking brake, and apply firm pressure to the service brake. Watch for excessive air loss.
Turn the key on and pump the brake pedal to verify low-air warning devices activate before pressure drops too far. Continue pumping until the parking brake pops out.
Restart the engine and verify air pressure rebuilds properly.
During your inspection, use clear phrases examiners expect to hear.
Say that components are “securely mounted, not cracked, bent, or broken.” For hoses and lines, say “no abrasions, bulges, cuts, or leaks.”
For tires, confirm proper inflation and tread depth. For lights, say they are clean, correct color, and working.
Confidence comes from repetition. Practice saying these phrases out loud before test day.
Many drivers fail by skipping the coupling system or rushing through brake checks. Others forget to verbalize what they’re inspecting.
Changing your inspection order mid-walkaround is another common mistake. Pick one pattern and stick with it.
Finally, don’t assume the examiner knows what you’re thinking. If you don’t say it, it doesn’t count.
A strong pre-trip routine doesn’t end after the CDL test. In daily operations, consistency matters just as much.
Digital DVIR tools help drivers document inspections without paperwork. Document capture keeps permits, bills of lading, and inspection records organized. Fuel receipt uploads support accurate IFTA tracking. Fleet visibility tools give managers confidence that inspections are being completed on time.
Technology doesn’t replace the inspection, but it makes staying compliant easier across an entire fleet.
A thorough CDL pre-trip inspection usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. During a CDL test, it may take longer because drivers must explain each step clearly. Rushing increases the risk of missing items or failing to verbalize required checks.
Examiners listen for clear identification of components, what you are checking, and confirmation that each item is safe and secure. Phrases like “securely mounted,” “no leaks,” and “working properly” are important.
The ABC method stands for abrasions, bulges, and cuts. Drivers use it to check tires for visible damage. Tires should also have proper inflation, sufficient tread depth, and no exposed cords.
You should always check the fifth wheel, locking jaws, kingpin, mounting bolts, air lines, electrical cord, and glad hands. Everything must be properly connected, secure, and free of damage or leaks.
Yes. Drivers are required to inspect their vehicle before operating it each day. Even if the truck was driven recently, conditions can change overnight, making daily inspections essential for safety and compliance.