The Importance of the Driver’s DVIR (Daily Vehicle Inspection Report)

The safety of a driver and their vehicle is of utmost importance within the trucking industry, which is why the DVIR, or Daily Vehicle Inspection Report, currently exists. Back in the 1930s, it was created with just a few questions in mind, but today, the report is far more comprehensive, prompting the driver to inspect a wide range of essential vehicle parts and accessories.

While completing a DVIR, drivers identify and report any defects or issues that may affect the safe operation of their vehicle. This is typically conducted twice per day: once before operating the vehicle (known as a pre-trip inspection) and another after the vehicle has been operated for the day (known as a post-trip inspection). During these inspections, drivers are required to go through a checklist of key components and systems, checking for any signs of wear, damage, or malfunctions.

Drivers who don’t adhere to these DVIR regulations may face hefty fines or imprisonment, as well as suspension or revocation of their DOT registration or CDL.

Here’s what the DVIR specifically entails, why it’s important, and how Compliance Safety Manager can improve the tracking of the DVIR.

What’s on the DVIR Checklist?

According to the Code of Federal Regulations, the DVIR must include the following:

• Service brakes including trailer brake connections
• Parking brake
• Steering mechanism
• Lighting devices and reflectors
• Tires
• Horn
• Windshield wipers
• Rear vision mirrors
• Coupling devices
• Wheels and rims
• Emergency equipment

A DVIR may include additional items as well, such as oil pressure, muffler, transmission, fluid levels, and battery.

After the inspection is complete, the driver must notify their motor carrier of any defects and sign the report. Only safety-sensitive defects per Appendix G of the FMCSR need to be repaired immediately; all other defects can be addressed on another date.

Why Are DVIRs Important? 

Without DVIRs, any potential vehicle defects could escalate and cause malfunctions and accidents down the road. By conducting regular inspections, drivers and maintenance personnel can catch such defects early on, which minimizes the risk of accidents and contributes to the safety of drivers, passengers, other vehicles, and the surrounding environment. DVIRs are also required by the FMCSA to protect companies that are at fault for accidents.

Additionally, DVIRs help to improve the following:

• DOT roadside inspections
• CSA scores
• Driver awareness and responsibility
• Regulatory compliance
• Fleet operations

How CSM Can Improve DVIR Tracking

Maintaining compliance has never been easier. With Compliance Safety Manager’s fleet management software and our partnership with Geotab, you’ll be able to electronically complete your DVIR quickly and easily. 

Simply download the Geotab Drive app, select DVIR: New Inspection, and follow the prompts to complete the DVIR. You’ll be able to view previous DVIRs, select from various parts and defects, and sign off on the report. 

A comprehensive list of Geotab solutions are as follows:

• Geotab Drive
• ELD
• DVIR
• IFTA reports
• Elogs
• Solutions for trailers and tachograph
• And more

No more filling out, organizing, and losing hard copies of DVIRs. With Geotab’s seamless report logging and certification processes, you’ll be able to maintain fleet compliance, avoid penalties, and keep everyone safe on the road.

Give Compliance Safety Manager a test drive today. Schedule a Demo.