DVIR (Driver Vehicle Inspection Report)
A mandatory pre-trip and post-trip inspection report documenting the condition of a commercial vehicle.
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Compare ELD Compliance software →A Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) is a federally required document that records the results of pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections. Fleet management software digitizes this process, allowing drivers to complete inspections on mobile devices with photo attachments and automated defect tracking.
DVIR (Driver Vehicle Inspection Report) FAQ
Quick answers to the questions buyers usually ask once the category, software, or rollout details start getting more specific.
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A written DVIR is required at the completion of each day's work on each vehicle operated, but only where the driver found or was told of a defect. 49 CFR 396.11(a)(2)(i) states plainly that a driver need not prepare a report when no defect or deficiency is discovered. The daily pre-trip inspection under 396.13 is still mandatory either way, and reports plus repair certifications must be kept for three months.
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Every commercial motor vehicle under a motor carrier's control, and each unit separately, so a tractor-semitrailer means a report per vehicle operated. Intermodal equipment runs through a separate process operated by the equipment provider. Three operations are exempt: a private motor carrier of passengers on a nonbusiness basis, a driveaway-towaway operation, and any motor carrier operating only one commercial motor vehicle (49 CFR 396.11(a)(1), (a)(5), (b)(1)).
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It closes the loop between a driver finding a defect and the carrier fixing it. The report must identify the vehicle and list any defect that would affect safe operation or cause a breakdown. The carrier must then repair it before the vehicle is driven again, and must certify on the report that the repair was made or was unnecessary. The next driver reviews and signs that certification before driving (49 CFR 396.11(a)(2)(i), (a)(3), 396.13).