Free vehicle pre-start checklist
Free vehicle pre-start checklist (PDF-ready). Safe vehicle operation, compliance and recordkeeping before every trip. For fleet and drivers. Download free.
Updated 3 May 2026
Vehicle Pre-Start Checklist
Daily inspection record: complete before first use
Exterior & Tyres
Interior & Controls
Engine & Fluids
Safety Equipment
Documentation & Compliance
Load & Cargo (if applicable)
Driver / Operator Sign-off
Signature
Print name
Date & time
Supervisor / Reviewer Acknowledgement
Signature
Print name
Date
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Short answer
A vehicle pre-start checklist records the driver's check of a work vehicle before use: tyres, lights, mirrors, bodywork, seatbelt, horn, wipers, brakes, steering, fluids and safety equipment, with defects and sign-off. Drivers complete it before each use or at the start of each shift, as company practice. Section 19 of the model WHS Act requires a PCBU to provide and maintain safe plant, so far as is reasonably practicable.
Checked against Model WHS Act (Model WHS Bill as at 5 December 2025 (includes the Model WHS Legislation Amendment (Incident Notification) 2025)) on by the MapTrack templates team. How we check templates
Key takeaways
- The MapTrack vehicle pre-start checklist contains 46 checks across 6 sections. Sections covered: Exterior & Tyres, Interior & Controls, Engine & Fluids, Safety Equipment, Documentation & Compliance, Load & Cargo (if applicable).
- Complete this vehicle pre-start before every trip, not weekly. Any vehicle used for work is classified as plant under the WHS Act 2011 and the PCBU must show it was safe to operate.
- The checklist runs in roughly five minutes and covers seven areas: exterior and tyres, interior and controls, engine and fluids, safety equipment, documents and compliance, towing equipment and a damage record.
- Drivers sign and date the form to confirm defects were reported and the vehicle was not used until safe. Without the signed declaration, the record is not defensible in an audit or incident review.
- Tyres are the most common fail point: check pressure, tread depth (minimum 1.5 mm across the full width) and sidewall damage on all four. Note odometer at every check to keep service intervals accurate.
- Keep each pre start with the vehicle record in MapTrack.
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What is a vehicle pre-start checklist?
A vehicle pre-start checklist is a structured list of tasks and inspections to perform before a vehicle is used for work. It helps drivers, operators and supervisors confirm the vehicle is safe, roadworthy and fit for use, reducing the risk of accidents, breakdowns and non-compliance. The checklist covers exterior condition (tyres, lights, mirrors, bodywork), interior controls (seatbelt, horn, brakes, steering, dashboard), engine and fluids (oil, coolant, fuel, brake fluid), and safety equipment (fire extinguisher, first aid kit, warning triangle). It applies to any vehicle used for work purposes, including cars, utes, vans, trucks and light commercial vehicles. The checklist should be completed daily or before each trip and is a preventive measure to catch problems before they escalate. Under Australian WHS legislation, any vehicle used as part of work activities is classified as plant, and the PCBU has a duty to ensure it is maintained in a safe condition. A documented vehicle pre-start checklist is the most common way to demonstrate this duty has been met.
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Benefits of using this vehicle pre-start checklist
- Fewer financial losses: spot minor issues before they become costly repairs or downtime.
- Defects before use: uncover problems that could cause damage or injury if the vehicle is started or driven.
- Compliance: meet regulatory and organisational requirements and demonstrate due diligence.
- Preventive maintenance: keep vehicles in good order and reduce unexpected failures.
- Consistency and accountability: a standardised approach so important checks aren't missed.
- Recordkeeping: maintain a record of pre-starts for maintenance history and audits.
Benefits of digitising forms in MapTrack
When you digitise vehicle checklists in MapTrack, you get:
- Field users can easily scan a QR code to complete a form on mobile. Unlimited users.
- Email the right people when a form is submitted, with an automation you set up.
- File every completed form against the asset, location or person it covers.
- Download any completed form as a PDF, with failed answers listed at the top.
- Fill in forms offline; they upload when the device is back online.
- Build conditional logic (show or hide questions based on answers).
- Take pictures or attach photos. Not possible with a paper-based form.
- Electronic signatures.
- Edit forms later without reprinting.
- Set who can view, fill in or edit forms with user roles.
- Upload a paper form (PDF, Word, Excel or a photo) and MapTrack's AI builds a digital version for you to check.
- Make the pre-start form required when a machine is checked out to an operator.
- Record who did each pre-start and when, and where if you turn location capture on.
- Link each pre-start to the asset record for a complete inspection history.
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What to include in a vehicle pre-start checklist
This vehicle pre-start checklist covers 10 key areas:
- Vehicle details: registration, odometer, make/model, date, driver name and site/location.
- Exterior and tyres: tyres (condition, pressure, tread), lights, windows and mirrors, bodywork, number plate, reflectors.
- Interior and controls: seat, seatbelts, horn, wipers and washers, steering, brakes, dashboard.
- Engine and fluids: oil, coolant, screen wash, fuel, leaks, exhaust.
- Safety equipment: fire extinguisher (present, in date, accessible), first aid kit (present, complete, in date), warning triangle, high-vis if required.
- Documentation and compliance: registration current, roadworthy/inspection if applicable, keys.
- Towing equipment (if applicable): tow bar condition, trailer plug operation, safety chain anchor point.
- Damage/incident record: any new damage observed since last inspection, including scratches, dents, cracked panels or missing components.
- Declaration: confirmation that the check was completed, defects reported and vehicle not used until safe.
- Signature: driver/operator signature, print name and date/time.
How to use this vehicle pre-start checklist
- Complete vehicle and driver details at the top of the checklist.: Record the vehicle registration, make, model, current odometer reading, fleet number (if applicable), the driver name, licence number and the date. If your organisation requires it, note the site or destination. This information links the inspection to a specific vehicle and driver for compliance records, insurance documentation and fleet reporting.
- Perform an exterior walkaround and tyre inspection. Check all four tyres for tread depth, pressure, cuts, bulges and sidewall damage. Inspect bodywork, windows and mirrors.: Start at the front and walk clockwise around the vehicle. Check each tyre for minimum tread depth (1.5 mm across the full width), correct inflation, cuts, bulges and uneven wear patterns that may indicate alignment issues. Inspect the windscreen and all windows for cracks, chips or damage that could obstruct visibility. Check both side mirrors and the rear-view mirror for cracks, secure mounting and correct adjustment. Look for new bodywork damage including dents, scratches, cracked panels or missing components and record any changes since the last inspection.
- Open the bonnet and check the engine compartment and fluids. Verify oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid and belt condition.: With the engine cold, check the engine oil level on the dipstick and top up if below the minimum mark. Check the coolant reservoir level against the cold fill line. Inspect the brake fluid reservoir and power steering fluid if applicable. Top up windscreen washer fluid. Visually inspect drive belts for cracking, fraying or glazing. Look underneath the engine bay for signs of fresh fluid leaks on the ground. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and confirm the battery is securely mounted.
- Test cab controls: seatbelt, horn, wipers, dashboard warning lights, steering play and brake pedal feel.: Sit in the cab, adjust the seat and fasten the seatbelt, confirming it retracts, latches and releases correctly. Turn the ignition to the on position (without starting) and check the dashboard for any active warning lights such as engine, ABS, airbag, oil pressure or battery. Start the engine and test the horn. Operate the windscreen wipers and washers on all speeds. With the vehicle stationary, check steering for excessive free play. Press the brake pedal firmly and confirm it feels solid without excessive travel or sponginess. Engage and release the handbrake.
- Test all lights: headlights (low and high beam), tail lights, indicators, brake lights, hazard lights, reversing lights and number plate light.: With the engine running, switch on headlights and verify both low beam and high beam operate. Walk to the rear and confirm both tail lights illuminate. Have a colleague press the brake pedal and verify both brake lights activate. Test left and right indicators at the front and rear. Activate hazard lights and confirm all four indicators flash simultaneously. Check reversing lights engage when reverse gear is selected. Verify the number plate light illuminates the plate clearly. Replace any blown globes before driving.
- Check safety equipment: fire extinguisher charge and expiry, first aid kit contents and expiry, warning triangle and high-vis vest if required.: Confirm the fire extinguisher is in its designated mount, the pressure gauge is in the green zone, the safety pin is intact and the service tag shows the unit is within its current service date. Open the first aid kit and verify it is complete against the contents list, checking expiry dates on items such as antiseptic wipes, eye wash and medications. Confirm a warning triangle is present and accessible. If your organisation or site requires a high-vis vest in the vehicle, verify it is available and in good condition.
- If any item fails, record the defect with a clear description and do not use the vehicle until it is rectified or approved. Report defects per your procedures.: Write a specific description of each defect and the immediate action taken or required. Safety-critical defects such as brake failure, non-functional headlights, steering faults or tyre blowout must prevent the vehicle from being driven. Notify your fleet manager or supervisor and arrange for repair. For minor defects, log them for scheduled maintenance but the vehicle may still be used if it remains safe and roadworthy. Attach an out-of-service tag if the vehicle is withdrawn from use.
- Sign and date when the check is complete. Keep the form for your records.: Sign and date the completed form, noting the time of inspection. If your organisation requires a supervisor countersignature, obtain it before departing. File the form in the vehicle glovebox logbook, upload it to your fleet records system or submit digitally through MapTrack so the inspection is linked to the vehicle asset and available for compliance audits and maintenance planning.
Configure a form for the vehicle type. Your driver can complete it from the vehicle's record, and you can review the saved answers and attachments there. An account owner can set up and test a rule to turn selected failed answers into follow-up work.
Get the free templateEnter your email above to download the full vehicle pre-start checklist as a PDF.Back to download formHow often should you complete this checklist?
Complete a vehicle pre-start inspection before each use or at the start of each shift. Many organisations require a daily pre-start for fleet and plant vehicles; some require a check before every trip, particularly for shared pool vehicles. If the vehicle has been sitting unused for an extended period, has had repairs, or was used by another driver, always complete a fresh check. In addition to daily pre-starts, vehicles should follow the manufacturer scheduled service intervals, typically every 10,000 to 15,000 km or 6 to 12 months. Your company policy, site rules or contract may specify additional frequency. When in doubt, complete the checklist each time you take the vehicle.
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Frequently asked questions
Applicable regulatory standards
This template is a starting point. Check the current requirements that apply to your equipment, work and location. The template alone does not establish compliance.
| Standard | Edition | Clauses this template relies on | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model Work Health and Safety Act (Model Work Health and Safety Bill)The primary duty of care, including providing and maintaining safe plant and systems of work. | Model WHS Bill as at 5 December 2025 (includes the Model WHS Legislation Amendment (Incident Notification) 2025) |
| Safe Work Australia (drafted by the Parliamentary Counsel's Committee) |
| Model Work Health and Safety RegulationsManaging plant risks, and maintenance and inspection by a competent person following manufacturer recommendations. | Model WHS Regulations as at 5 December 2025 (cited within as the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011) |
| Safe Work Australia (drafted by the Parliamentary Counsel's Committee) |
| Heavy Vehicle National Law (Queensland)Heavy vehicles over 4.5 t GVM or ATM in HVNL states: the unsafe vehicle offence. WA and the NT have not commenced it. | Current as at 1 August 2026, incorporating the Heavy Vehicle National Law Amendment Act 2025 (Queensland) | Queensland Government (Office of the Queensland Parliamentary Counsel), administered by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator | |
| Heavy Vehicle (Vehicle Standards) National RegulationHeavy vehicles only: at least 1.5 mm tread in the principal grooves across 75% of the road-contact width. | Current as at 1 August 2026 (Queensland Legislation reprint) |
| Queensland Government (Office of the Queensland Parliamentary Counsel), administered by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator |
Model Work Health and Safety Act (Model Work Health and Safety Bill)
Edition: Model WHS Bill as at 5 December 2025 (includes the Model WHS Legislation Amendment (Incident Notification) 2025)
The primary duty of care, including providing and maintaining safe plant and systems of work.
- s 19: Primary duty of care: a PCBU must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of workers and others, including safe plant, systems, training and supervision.
Safe Work Australia (drafted by the Parliamentary Counsel's Committee)
Model Work Health and Safety Regulations
Edition: Model WHS Regulations as at 5 December 2025 (cited within as the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011)
Managing plant risks, and maintenance and inspection by a competent person following manufacturer recommendations.
- reg 203: A person managing or controlling plant must manage its risks in line with Part 3.1.
- reg 213: Plant must be maintained, inspected and, if necessary, tested by a competent person, following manufacturer or competent person recommendations; annual inspection applies only if neither is practicable.
Safe Work Australia (drafted by the Parliamentary Counsel's Committee)
Heavy Vehicle National Law (Queensland)
Edition: Current as at 1 August 2026, incorporating the Heavy Vehicle National Law Amendment Act 2025 (Queensland)
Heavy vehicles over 4.5 t GVM or ATM in HVNL states: the unsafe vehicle offence. WA and the NT have not commenced it.
Heavy Vehicle (Vehicle Standards) National Regulation
Edition: Current as at 1 August 2026 (Queensland Legislation reprint)
Heavy vehicles only: at least 1.5 mm tread in the principal grooves across 75% of the road-contact width.
- Schedule 2, s 28: Tyre tread: at least 1.5 mm in all principal grooves, excluding wear indicators, across 75% of the normal road-contact width and the whole circumference.
Each source was read at its publisher and the page checked on 26 October 2026. The publisher's current text is the authority.
Check the current source
Vehicle pre-start checklist preview
The numbers behind this vehicle pre-start checklist
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<div style="max-width:480px;font-family:system-ui,-apple-system,'Segoe UI',Roboto,sans-serif;border:1px solid #E5E7EB;border-radius:12px;padding:20px;background:#ffffff;">
<p style="font-size:12px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0.05em;text-transform:uppercase;color:#071D49;margin:0;">Free template</p>
<p style="font-size:18px;font-weight:700;color:#071D49;margin:6px 0 0;">Vehicle pre-start checklist</p>
<ul style="margin:12px 0 0;padding-left:18px;color:#374151;font-size:14px;line-height:1.6;">
<li style="margin:4px 0;">Vehicle details: registration, odometer, make/model, date, driver name and site/location.</li>
<li style="margin:4px 0;">Exterior and tyres: tyres (condition, pressure, tread), lights, windows and mirrors, bodywork, number plate, reflectors.</li>
<li style="margin:4px 0;">Interior and controls: seat, seatbelts, horn, wipers and washers, steering, brakes, dashboard.</li>
<li style="margin:4px 0;">Engine and fluids: oil, coolant, screen wash, fuel, leaks, exhaust.</li>
<li style="margin:4px 0;">Safety equipment: fire extinguisher (present, in date, accessible), first aid kit (present, complete, in date), warning triangle, high-vis if required.</li>
<li style="margin:4px 0;">Documentation and compliance: registration current, roadworthy/inspection if applicable, keys.</li>
</ul>
<p style="font-size:13px;color:#6B7280;margin:14px 0 0;padding-top:12px;border-top:1px solid #E5E7EB;">Free <a href="https://www.maptrack.com/templates/vehicle-pre-start-checklist" style="color:#071D49;font-weight:600;text-decoration:none;">Vehicle pre-start checklist</a> by MapTrack</p>
</div>Free to reuse, including commercially. This template is published under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 licence. Copy it, adapt it, put it on your own site or in your own docs. All we ask is that you credit MapTrack with a link back to this page. The snippet above already includes that credit, so if you use it as-is you’re covered.
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Writing about this topic? You’re welcome to quote this checklist. Here’s the wording to use so your readers can find the original.
The MapTrack vehicle pre-start checklist contains 46 checks across 6 sections.
- Short attribution
- MapTrack Vehicle pre-start checklist, https://www.maptrack.com/templates/vehicle-pre-start-checklist
- Reference list
- MapTrack. (2026). Vehicle pre-start checklist [Checklist template]. Retrieved from https://www.maptrack.com/templates/vehicle-pre-start-checklist
Free to reuse with credit under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 licence. If you’d rather link straight to it, the page is https://www.maptrack.com/templates/vehicle-pre-start-checklist.
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