Guide 16. How to Conduct Effective Driver Walk around Checks

Templates and Checklists for Daily Inspections – What Drivers Must Check Every Day

Ensuring roadworthiness is a cornerstone of staying compliant with an Operator’s Licence in the UK. One of the most effective tools in a fleet operator’s compliance toolkit is the daily driver walkaround check. These checks are not merely box-ticking exercises—they are legal obligations designed to ensure safety for drivers, other road users, and the general public.

In this blog, we will walk you through the purpose, legal framework, key components, and practical tips for conducting daily walkaround checks effectively. We’ll also provide templates and checklists you can use and adapt to suit your fleet.

Why Are Walkaround Checks Important?

Daily walkaround checks serve three critical functions:

• Safety: Spotting defects before a vehicle leaves the depot can prevent accidents and breakdowns.

• Compliance: The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) mandates daily checks under operator licensing rules.

• Evidence: Keeping accurate records of checks can protect your business in the event of roadside stops or investigations.

Operators who fail to conduct these checks—or record them properly—risk penalties, prohibitions, or even licence revocation.

What the Law Says

According to the DVSA Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness, drivers must check their vehicle before its first use each day. Any defects must be reported and rectified before the vehicle is used.

The key legal obligations include:

• Checks must be done daily, even if the vehicle hasn’t moved.

• Defects must be recorded and reported immediately.

• Vehicles with safety-critical defects must not be used until repaired.

• Records of walkaround checks must be retained for at least 15 months.

  
  

What Must Be Checked: The Full Walkaround Checklist

The walkaround check should cover the entire vehicle, including the trailer if used. Below is a standard checklist that meets DVSA guidelines:

Cab Area:

• Mirrors and glass – secure, clean, undamaged

• Windscreen wipers and washers – working and filled

• Horn – operational

• Seatbelts – secure and working

• Dashboard warning lights – check for any fault indicators

• Steering – no excessive play or strange noises

• Controls – accessible and working properly

Lights and Indicators:

• Headlights (main and dipped beam)

• Brake lights

• Indicators (including hazard lights)

• Marker lights

• Number plate lights

Brakes:

• Service brake operation

• Parking brake (handbrake)

• Air brake warning systems (for HGVs)

Tyres and Wheels:

• Tread depth (minimum 1mm for HGVs; 1.6mm for smaller vehicles)

• Inflation and sidewall condition

• No bulges, cuts, or exposed cords

• Wheel nuts secure and no signs of tampering

Fuel and Oil:

• Fuel cap present and secure

• No visible fuel leaks

• Oil levels within the recommended range

Exhaust System:

• Secure and not excessively noisy

• No signs of leaks or smoke

Load and Security:

• Load correctly positioned and secured

• Curtains or covers are intact

• No loose items in the cab or load area

Bodywork:

• No sharp edges or insecure panels

• All doors open and close securely

Reflectors and Registration Plates:

• Clean and legible

• Correct and secure

Trailer (if applicable):

• Electrical connections

• Air lines and brake coupling

• Landing legs

• Security of load

• Trailer number plate

Using Templates and Digital Systems

Paper-Based Templates

Traditional check sheets are still effective when used consistently. A daily walkaround check sheet should include:

• Date and time of check

• Driver’s name and signature

• Vehicle registration number

• Checklist items with pass/fail boxes

• Space for notes on defects

• Confirmation of defect reporting

Example layout:

Digital Apps and Telematics

Many operators now use apps like FleetCheck, Truckfile, or CheckedSafe. These:

• Prompt drivers through checks step-by-step

• Capture photos and notes

• Notify maintenance teams in real time

• Store records securely and accessibly

Advantages of digital systems:

• Reduces paperwork

• Increases accuracy

• Integrates with maintenance and compliance systems

Training and Culture

Conducting effective checks is not just about having a checklist—it’s about building a safety culture. To do this:

• Train drivers on how to perform checks properly.

• Supervise and audit checks to ensure they’re being done.

• Reward diligence and follow up on missed or poorly done checks.

• Use mock DVSA inspections to raise standards.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Rushing the check – A thorough walkaround should take 10–15 minutes.

• Not checking trailers – Trailer defects are just as critical.

• Failing to report minor defects – They can worsen quickly.

• Ignoring warning lights – These are part of the legal check.

• No recordkeeping – “It was fine” is not a valid defence in a roadside check.

  
  

Conclusion

Walkaround checks are the frontline defence in keeping your fleet compliant, roadworthy, and safe. By equipping your drivers with the right knowledge, tools, and culture, you can turn a legal obligation into a daily habit that reduces downtime, prevents accidents, and safeguards your Operator’s Licence.