The HGV Walkaround Check: What It Is and Why It Matters

Before driving any HGV, you are legally required to carry out a walkaround check — a systematic inspection of the vehicle to identify any defects that could make it unsafe or illegal to drive. This is not optional. Under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, a driver who knowingly drives a defective vehicle is committing a criminal offence.

The walkaround check is also assessed in your practical driving test. The examiner will ask you to carry out a vehicle safety check at the start of the test, and failure to identify a presented defect — or inability to explain how to check a component — will result in a serious or dangerous fault.

How Long Should a Walkaround Check Take?

A thorough walkaround check on a rigid HGV takes approximately 15–20 minutes. On an articulated vehicle, allow 20–30 minutes. Many drivers rush this process — a mistake that can result in prohibition notices, accidents, and personal liability.

The Complete Walkaround Check: Step by Step

1. Cab and Documentation

• Check that your driver card is in the tachograph and recording correctly
• Verify that the vehicle's operator licence disc is displayed and valid
• Check that the MOT certificate and insurance documents are in the cab
• Inspect the cab for any damage, broken glass, or obstructions to visibility
• Check that all mirrors are clean, correctly adjusted, and undamaged
• Test the horn
• Check that the windscreen wipers and washers work
• Verify that the speedometer and all warning lights function correctly

2. Engine Bay

• Check engine oil level (dipstick)
• Check coolant level
• Check power steering fluid level
• Check windscreen washer fluid level
• Check brake fluid level (if accessible)
• Look for any visible leaks — oil, coolant, or fuel
• Check that the battery is secure and terminals are clean

3. Tyres and Wheels

• Check tread depth on all tyres (legal minimum: 1mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, around the full circumference)
• Check tyre pressure visually — look for any obviously flat or underinflated tyres
• Check for cuts, bulges, or damage to the sidewalls
• Check that all wheel nuts are present and show no sign of loosening (look for rust streaks or paint cracks around the nuts)
• Check that valve caps are in place

4. Lights and Indicators

• Walk around the vehicle checking all lights: headlights (main and dipped), sidelights, tail lights, brake lights, reverse lights, hazard lights, and indicators
• Check that all lights are clean and undamaged
• Check that marker lights are working (if fitted)
• Check that the number plate is clean, secure, and illuminated

5. Brakes

• Check air brake pressure gauges — both primary and secondary circuits should show adequate pressure
• Apply the footbrake and check that pressure holds
• Apply the parking brake and check that it holds the vehicle on a gradient
• Listen for any air leaks when the brakes are applied

6. Body and Load Security

• Check that all body panels are secure and undamaged
• Check that all doors, hatches, and curtains are properly closed and latched
• If carrying a load, check that it is correctly secured and within the vehicle's weight limits
• Check that the rear underrun bar is in place and undamaged
• Check that mudguards are secure

7. Trailer (if applicable)

• Check that the fifth wheel coupling is correctly engaged and the locking mechanism is secure
• Check that the trailer brake lines (red and yellow susies) are correctly connected and not damaged
• Check that the trailer electrical connection is secure
• Check that the trailer landing legs are fully raised and locked
• Check that all trailer lights are working
• Check trailer tyres and wheel nuts as per the tractor unit

Defect Reporting

If you find a defect during your walkaround check, you must report it to your transport manager or employer before driving the vehicle. Minor defects (a cracked mirror glass, a non-critical light failure) may be acceptable to drive with in some circumstances, but this decision must be made by your employer — not by you alone. Serious defects (brake failure, tyre damage, coupling issues) mean the vehicle must not be driven until repaired.

All defects must be recorded in the vehicle's defect book, along with the date, time, and your name. This creates a legal record that protects both you and your employer.

Walkaround Checks in Your Practical Driving Test

The DVSA examiner will ask you to carry out a vehicle safety check at the start of your practical test. You will be asked to identify the location of specific components and explain how to check them. Common questions include:

• "Show me how you would check the engine oil level."
• "Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working correctly before driving."
• "Show me how you would check the tyre tread depth."

Failure to answer these questions correctly results in a serious fault. Practise the full walkaround check until it becomes second nature — your instructor at GS Driver Training will take you through it in detail during your training.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the legal minimum tyre tread depth for an HGV?

The legal minimum is 1mm across the central three-quarters of the tread width, around the entire circumference. However, most operators require drivers to report tyres below 3mm so they can be replaced before they reach the legal minimum.

Do I need to carry out a walkaround check if I am relieving another driver mid-shift?

Yes. You are responsible for the vehicle from the moment you take over. You should carry out a walkaround check before driving, even if the previous driver has already done one.

What happens if I am stopped by DVSA and my vehicle has a defect I did not notice?

If the defect is one that a reasonable walkaround check would have identified, you may be issued with a fixed penalty notice. If the defect is serious, the vehicle may be prohibited from driving. In extreme cases, you could face prosecution.