DAF Form 4355: Vehicle Incoming Inspection

DAF Form 4355: Vehicle Incoming Inspection – Download PDF – The DAF Form 4355, titled Vehicle Incoming Inspection, is an official Department of the Air Force (DAF) form used to document and assess the condition of vehicles entering the Air Force or Space Force inventory. It serves as a critical checklist for vehicle management personnel, maintenance teams, and Vehicle Control Officials (VCOs) when receiving new, newly acquired, leased, or returning vehicles (including those from deployments or missions).

This form helps identify existing damage, safety issues, and maintenance needs early, ensuring fleet readiness, accountability, and compliance with Air Force vehicle control programs (VCP).

What Is DAF Form 4355 Used For?

Vehicle Incoming Inspection (DAF Form 4355, formerly often referenced as AF Form 4355) is primarily used during:

Receipt of new government-owned or leased vehicles (Blue Fleet or GSA leased assets).
Inspection of vehicles returning from deployment or temporary duty.
Unit-requested inspections or vehicle “rodeos.”
Documentation as part of broader vehicle assessment processes alongside forms like 90 LRS Form 4431 or AF Form 1800 (Operator’s Inspection Guide and Trouble Report).

It records the overall mechanical, safety, and cosmetic condition of cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other motorized assets. Inspectors use it to note discrepancies, unreported damage, and operator care issues before the vehicle is placed into service or assigned to a unit.

Proper use of the form supports mission readiness, helps prevent abuse or neglect claims, and provides documentation for the Management Internal Control Toolset (MICT) and continuity binders maintained by unit VCOs.

Who Uses DAF Form 4355?

Vehicle Management personnel in Logistics Readiness Squadrons (LRS/LGRV).
Vehicle Control Officials (VCOs) appointed via AF Form 172.
Maintenance technicians performing incoming or preventative checks.
Units conducting staff assistance visits (SAV) or impromptu fleet assessments.

The form is referenced in various wing instructions, such as 90MWI24-302, which highlights its role in assessing operator care, safety items, and documentation.

Key Sections and Purpose of the Form

Although the exact layout is a fillable PDF checklist, typical fields on DAF Form 4355 include:

Vehicle Identification: Year, make, model, VIN, license plate, registration data, odometer reading, and unit/organization details.
Inspector Information: Name, rank, date of inspection, and signature.
Condition Checklists: Exterior (body, tires, lights, glass), interior, undercarriage, engine compartment, fluid levels, brakes, electrical systems, and safety equipment.
Damage Notation: Pre-existing damage, dents, scratches, or mechanical issues with space for detailed remarks and photos if required.
Safety and Compliance Items: Verification of required equipment, emissions compliance (where applicable), and any discrepancies that could affect operability.
Overall Assessment: Pass/fail status or condition rating, recommended maintenance actions, and follow-up notes.

The form emphasizes safety discrepancies—any vehicle with documented safety issues (often cross-referenced with AF Form 1800) may result in automatic failure for operation until corrected.

Note: Always use the most current version from official sources, as forms are periodically updated.

How to Download and Fill Out DAF Form 4355?

Official Download Link (Department of the Air Force e-Publishing):
https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_a4/form/daf4355/daf4355.pdf

Steps to complete the form:

Download the fillable PDF from the official Air Force e-Publishing site.
Open in Adobe Acrobat Reader (recommended for full functionality).
Enter vehicle and inspector details in the header blocks.
Perform a thorough physical inspection using the checklist items.
Mark each item as acceptable, deficient, or N/A, and add detailed comments for any issues.
Have the inspector sign and date the form.
Distribute copies as required (e.g., to the unit VCO, maintenance records, or continuity binder).

Many users fill it digitally for clarity and easy archiving. Units may also reference it electronically in vehicle management systems.

Best Practices for Vehicle Incoming Inspections

Conduct the inspection promptly upon vehicle arrival or return.
Combine with other required checks (e.g., AF Form 4354 for preventative maintenance scheduling).
Document everything thoroughly—clear notes and supporting photos strengthen accountability.
Emphasize safety and operator care, especially for GSA-leased vehicles where Air Force personnel do not perform routine maintenance.
Retain copies in unit VCO continuity binders as proof of compliance during audits or MICT assessments.

AF Form 1800 — Operator’s Inspection Guide and Trouble Report
AF Form 4354 — Vehicle Preventative Maintenance & Inspection
AF Form 172 — Appointment of Vehicle Control Officials
AF Form 2293 — US Air Force Motor Vehicle Operator Identification Card
DD Form 518 — Accident Identification Card
Local instructions (e.g., 90MWI24-302) that adopt DAF Form 4355 for vehicle assessment

For the latest guidance, visit the official Air Force e-Publishing website (e-publishing.af.mil) and search for DAF forms under Logistics or Vehicle Management categories.

Why Proper Use of DAF Form 4355 Matters?

Accurate incoming inspections protect government assets, reduce long-term maintenance costs, ensure safety for operators, and maintain compliance with Department of the Air Force policies. Whether you are a new VCO, vehicle maintainer, or unit commander overseeing fleet readiness, mastering this form is essential for effective vehicle control programs.

Download DAF Form 4355 here: Official PDF

Always verify you are using the current revision directly from e-publishing.af.mil, as government forms can be updated.

This guide is for informational purposes and is based on publicly available Air Force references and instructions. For official policy, consult your unit Vehicle Management office or the latest Department of the Air Force publications.