What does the driver vehicle inspection report require under 49 CFR 396.11?

Short answer

The driver vehicle inspection report under 49 CFR 396.11 requires drivers to report any defects or deficiencies discovered during the day's work on each vehicle operated, covering parts and accessories such as service brakes, parking brake, steering mechanism, and tires. The report must identify the vehicle, list any defects or deficiencies, and be signed by the driver.

The rule says

"The report shall cover at least the following parts and accessories: (i) Service brakes including trailer brake connections; (ii) Parking brake; (iii) Steering mechanism; (iv) Lighting devices and reflectors; (v) Tires; (vi) Horn; (vii) Windshield wipers; (viii) Rear vision mirrors; (ix) Coupling devices; (x) Wheels and rims; (xi) Emergency equipment." (49 CFR 396.11(a)(1))

"The report must identify the vehicle and list any defect or deficiency discovered by or reported to the driver which would affect the safety of operation of the vehicle or result in its mechanical breakdown." (49 CFR 396.11(a)(2)(i))

In plain English

In practice, this means that drivers must conduct a thorough inspection of their vehicle at the end of each day's work and report any issues they find. The report must be in writing and cover all the required parts and accessories. Drivers are not required to prepare a report if no defects or deficiencies are discovered. Motor carriers are responsible for ensuring that drivers complete these reports and for maintaining them for at least three months.

What to do

• Ensure drivers understand what parts and accessories to inspect and report on
• Provide a system for drivers to submit reports electronically or in writing
• Maintain reports for at least three months from the date they were prepared
• Review reports to identify and address any safety issues or defects