Vehicle Inspection & DVIR · PDF template
Free Daily Vehicle Walkaround Checklist
A quick daily walkaround checklist for the start-of-shift circle check: the fast, methodical lap a driver does around the vehicle before driving, for light and medium vehicles that aren't on a full CDL pre-trip. Use it alongside our fleet calculators to size the costs this template tracks, or browse fleet management software when you are ready to automate the workflow. See all downloads in the template library, and check the fleet glossary for any unfamiliar terms.
Built and reviewed by the FleetOpsClub research team. Preview it free below.
- A clockwise walkaround sequence so the lap is the same every time
- Concise checks for lights, tires, fluids, glass, and the cab
- A defect line that feeds the day's defect report
- Driver name, date, and odometer fields
- Editable CSV. Yours to keep
- Print or save as PDF
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How to use it
- 1
Park on level ground and start at the driver's door, walking the vehicle clockwise.
- 2
Glance at each grouped item as you pass it (lights, tires, body, glass), marking OK or defect.
- 3
Open the hood to eyeball fluid levels and any obvious leaks.
- 4
Finish in the cab checking warning lights, mirrors, wipers, and safety equipment.
- 5
Note any defect, report safety-critical issues before driving, and keep the sheet for the day.
What's inside
- A clockwise walkaround sequence so the lap is the same every time
- Concise checks for lights, tires, fluids, glass, and the cab
- A defect line that feeds the day's defect report
- Driver name, date, and odometer fields
- An ungated, one-page format that takes a couple of minutes
Preview the template
Here's a real sample of the layout — the actual columns and structure you'll work in. The complete template, plus the editable spreadsheet, unlocks the moment you enter your email.
Preview
Daily Vehicle Walkaround Checklist
Front & Driver Side
- Headlights and turn signals
- Windshield, wipers, and washers
- Driver-side tires and wheels
- Body damage or fluid puddle under vehicle
- Mirrors clean and adjusted
Rear & Passenger Side
+5 more items in this section
Under Hood
+4 more items in this section
In the Cab
+5 more items in this section
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the questions buyers usually ask once the category, software, or rollout details start getting more specific.
No. A CDL pre-trip is the detailed, hundred-plus-point inspection required for commercial vehicles and the CDL exam. A daily walkaround is a faster circle check suited to light and medium vehicles. If you operate a CMV, use the full CDL pre-trip instead.
A focused walkaround on a light vehicle takes only a couple of minutes once it's habit. The point is consistency (the same lap, the same order), so a developing problem gets noticed early.
Note it on the sheet. If the defect affects safe operation (bald tire, brake issue, dead light), don't drive until it's fixed. Minor items get reported so they're scheduled before they grow.
Yes, a daily check catches low tires, fluid leaks, and burned-out lights on any vehicle, reduces breakdowns, and builds a habit that supports your overall safety program.