Essential Daily Vehicle Checks for Professional Drivers

A thorough daily walk-around check is not just a legal requirement — it is your personal safety net. Identifying a defect before you set off can prevent a breakdown, an accident, or a prohibition notice from DVSA enforcement. It takes 10 to 15 minutes and should become second nature.

When to Check

Complete your walk-around before your first journey of the day or when taking over a vehicle from another driver. Do not assume the previous driver checked it. You are responsible for the vehicle when you are driving it.

The Walk-Around Checklist

Tyres

• Check tread depth — legal minimum is 1mm across 75% of the tread width for HGVs
• Look for cuts, bulges, embedded objects, and uneven wear
• Check pressures visually (a properly inflated tyre has a slight bulge at the bottom; a flat-looking tyre needs attention)
• Inspect all axles including trailer tyres — an 18-wheeler has a lot of rubber to check

Lights and Reflectors

• Headlights (main and dipped beam)
• Indicators and hazard lights
• Brake lights and reverse lights
• Rear fog lights
• Side marker lights and reflectors
• Number plate light

Under the Cab

• Oil level (check dipstick)
• Coolant level (never open a hot radiator cap)
• Windscreen washer fluid
• Power steering fluid
• Look for leaks — oil, coolant, air lines, fuel

Bodywork and Load

• Check for damage to the cab, chassis, and bodywork
• Curtainsiders: check straps and buckles, curtain condition
• Ensure load is secure and within weight limits
• Check fifth wheel coupling is locked (articulated vehicles)
• Trailer landing legs are fully raised and pinned

Cab Interior

• Mirrors clean and correctly adjusted
• Windscreen clean and free of cracks that obscure your view
• Wipers functioning with adequate washer fluid
• Horn working
• Seatbelt in good condition
• Dashboard warning lights — start the engine and check nothing stays illuminated

Reporting Defects

Any defect must be reported using your company's defect reporting system — usually a paper or digital form. Never drive with a serious defect. If in doubt, report it and let a mechanic decide. Common immediate prohibitions from DVSA include worn tyres, brake defects, insecure loads, and faulty lights.

DVSA Enforcement

DVSA officers carry out roadside checks at layby stops, ports, and distribution centres. A vehicle with defects can receive an immediate prohibition (taken off the road) and the driver and operator can be fined. Having a well-maintained vehicle and evidence of regular walk-around checks demonstrates compliance.