On the Road
Pre-Trip, Post-Trip, and DVIR-A Simple, Visual Walkthrough
If you’re just getting started as an over-the-road driver, you’ve probably heard the words “pre-trip,” “post-trip,” and “DVIR” as part of your onboarding or training. At first, it might seem like these are repetitive checks and balances, but the reality is this: these inspections are your protection against tickets, breakdowns, and problems at weigh stations. Knowing how to handle them is the first step toward ensuring you can have a lasting career in the trucking industry.
Pre-Trip: Your First Check for Issues
Before you even think about hitting the road, a pre-trip inspection is required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This should be a normal part of your morning routine for the truck you drive. You need to look for obvious problems, such as:
- Leaks
- Flat tires
- Lights that aren’t working
These issues could get you in trouble later. To finish your pre-trip inspection:
- Start under the hood with fluids and hoses
- Move to your tires
- Check your brakes
- Test your suspension
- Walk all the way around, checking lights, reflectors, and coupling gear.
- Climb into the cab and do a cabin check — all gauges, horns, wipers, and communication tools should be working.
To make pre-inspection tasks easier, do them in the same order every day.
Post-Trip: Catching Problems Before They Cause Bigger Issues
The post-trip inspection happens at the end of your shift. It’s almost the same as the pre-trip inspection, but you’re going to be looking for issues that have come up since the morning.
The big three things to look at are your tires, brakes, and lights, because these result in the most out-of-service violations. If you find a defect, it’s essential to report it right away. Many issues can be repaired overnight or early the next morning.
DVIR: Your Driver Vehicle Inspection Report
After finishing your post-trip inspection, you need to complete your Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR). Record the basics, including the truck number, trailer number, and mileage, then identify any defects you noticed. You should be as specific as possible. And, if the shop fixes the problem, a mechanic should sign off on your DVIR. On the other hand, if no defects are found, you still have to fill out the form and mark “no defects.”
Important note: U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) officers can ask to see your latest DVIR, so you should always have it prepared and ready for them.
Why Inspections Matter
Skipping inspections might be tempting when you’re running late or want to get out on the road, but it’s a serious risk to yourself and others. Not identifying an issue can mean you have a roadside breakdown, get a ticket, or worse, cause an accident. However, completing your inspection means you’ll be able to spend less time with breakdowns, be sure your truck is in its best condition, and avoid issues during official inspections.
Remember, pre-trip inspections, post-trip inspections, and DVIR are not just rules you need to follow on paper. They’re designed to keep you safe and on the road, so you can do your job and come home safely.
