DVIR (Driver Vehicle Inspection Report)

The Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) is a federally mandated document that commercial motor vehicle drivers must complete at the end of each driving day, per FMCSA regulations under 49 CFR 396.11. The report documents the condition of key vehicle components including brakes, steering, tires, lights, horn, coupling devices, mirrors, and emergency equipment.

If a driver identifies any defects or deficiencies that could affect safety or result in a mechanical breakdown, they must note them on the DVIR. The motor carrier is then responsible for reviewing the report, certifying that any reported defects have been repaired or that no repair is necessary, and ensuring the vehicle is safe before it returns to service.

Modern fleet management systems have digitized the DVIR process, allowing drivers to complete inspections on tablets or smartphones with photo documentation of any issues. Electronic DVIRs improve accuracy, speed up the repair workflow, and create a more reliable audit trail for compliance purposes. Failure to maintain proper DVIRs can result in violations during DOT inspections and negatively impact a carrier's safety rating.