Part 396.11 requires drivers to prepare a report at the completion of each day's work identifying any defect that would affect safe operation. If defects are reported, the carrier must certify that repairs were made or that repair was unnecessary before the vehicle is dispatched again.
Reports are retained for three months, and many carriers now capture them electronically through telematics platforms.
Alternative Names:
DVIR, Daily Vehicle Inspection Report
Why it Matters?
DVIRs create a documented chain: the driver reports a defect, the carrier certifies repair, and the vehicle returns to service. Breaks in that chain are highly persuasive, particularly a reported defect with no repair certification followed by a crash involving that system. Blank or identically completed reports across weeks also support an argument that inspections were never actually performed.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
What must a driver do if a defect is found?
How long are DVIRs retained?
