Free Compliance Tool

DOT Pre-Trip
Inspection Checklist

Complete interactive checklist covering all FMCSA requirements. Download a printable PDF to keep in your cab for daily compliance checks.

DOT Compliant

Printable PDF

FMCSA Requirements

Always Free

Why Use This Tool

Stay DOT Compliant

DOT Compliant

Covers all FMCSA pre-trip inspection requirements for commercial vehicles. Never miss a critical check item.

Print & Use

Download PDF format ready to print and keep in your truck cab. Use it every day before hitting the road.

Always Free

No cost, no subscription. Just enter your email to download instantly. From CTR Repair — your heavy duty experts.

Interactive Tool

Complete Your Inspection

Check off items as you inspect your vehicle. Download the PDF when you're done.

INSPECTION PROGRESS

Complete all items for DOT compliance

0 of 50 items

Exterior Inspection

0 of 5 completed

Check for body damage, cracks, or loose parts

Inspect mirrors for cracks and secure mounting

Check windshield for cracks or obstructions

Verify all doors close and latch properly

Check fuel tank(s) for leaks and secure mounting

Lights & Reflectors

0 of 6 completed

Test headlights (high and low beam)

Check turn signals (front and rear)

Test brake lights

Verify clearance and marker lights work

Check reflectors are clean and secure

Test 4-way flashers

Tires & Wheels

0 of 6 completed

Check tire tread depth (minimum 4/32" front, 2/32" rear)

Inspect for cuts, bulges, or exposed cords

Verify proper tire inflation pressure

Check lug nuts are tight and present

Inspect wheels for cracks or damage

Check valve stems and caps

Brakes

0 of 6 completed

Check brake adjustment (pushrod travel)

Inspect brake drums/rotors for cracks

Check brake hoses for leaks or damage

Test air pressure builds to proper PSI

Verify low air warning activates correctly

Test parking brake holds vehicle

Steering

0 of 4 completed

Check steering wheel for excessive play

Inspect steering linkage for loose or worn parts

Check power steering fluid level

Look for leaks in steering system

Suspension

0 of 4 completed

Inspect springs for cracks or breaks

Check spring mounts and hangers

Inspect shock absorbers for leaks

Check U-bolts are tight

Engine Compartment

0 of 6 completed

Check engine oil level

Verify coolant level

Check for fluid leaks (oil, coolant, fuel)

Inspect belts for wear and proper tension

Check hoses for cracks or leaks

Verify battery is secure and terminals clean

Coupling Devices

0 of 4 completed

Check fifth wheel for proper lubrication

Verify fifth wheel is securely mounted

Check kingpin and locking jaws

Inspect air and electrical connections

Safety Equipment

0 of 4 completed

Fire extinguisher present and charged

Warning triangles/reflectors present (3 required)

Check spare fuses

Verify first aid kit is present

Cab Interior

0 of 5 completed

Test horn

Check windshield wipers and washers

Test all gauges (oil pressure, temperature, etc.)

Verify seatbelt is present and functional

Check emergency equipment access

DOWNLOAD PRINTABLE CHECKLIST

Get a PDF version to print and keep in your cab

Found a Problem?

What to Do If You Find Defects

!
Out-of-Service Defects

These defects mean the vehicle cannot be driven until repaired:

Brake system failures or air leaks
Steering system defects
Tire failures (below minimum tread)
Frame cracks or damage
Coupling device failures
Fuel system leaks

⚠
Schedule Repair Soon

These defects should be repaired promptly but may not be immediately out-of-service:

Minor light outages (non-critical)
Windshield chips (not in driver's view)
Minor fluid leaks
Worn but legal tires
Minor body damage
Accessory equipment issues

CTR Services

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CTR Repair is a certified DOT inspection station with 30+ years of heavy duty truck repair experience.

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Visit Us

Concord's Heavy Duty Experts

CTR Heavy Duty — Armentrout Dr

2931 Armentrout Dr, Concord, NC 28025

Mon–Fri 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Easy Class 8 access — I-85 Exit 58

(704) 786-0132

Need DOT Inspection
or Repairs?

CTR Repair provides certified DOT inspections and expert heavy duty truck repair. Over 30 years keeping fleets compliant and on the road.

2931 Armentrout Dr, Concord, NC 28025Mon–Fri 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

DOT Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Stay DOT Compliant

DOT Compliant

Print & Use

Always Free

Complete Your Inspection

INSPECTION PROGRESS

Exterior Inspection

Lights & Reflectors

Tires & Wheels

Brakes

Steering

Suspension

Engine Compartment

Coupling Devices

Safety Equipment

Cab Interior

DOWNLOAD PRINTABLE CHECKLIST

What to Do If You Find Defects

!Out-of-Service Defects

⚠Schedule Repair Soon

Need Repairs or Inspections?

DOT Inspections

Brake Repair

Fleet Maintenance

All HD Services

Concord's Heavy Duty Experts

CTR Heavy Duty — Armentrout Dr

Need DOT Inspectionor Repairs?

DOT Pre-Trip
Inspection Checklist

!
Out-of-Service Defects

⚠
Schedule Repair Soon

Need DOT Inspection
or Repairs?