does the motor have to be running to check the automatic transmission fluid?

Hi waterman! Check your tranny dipstick. If it has hot and cold level lines you can check it cold, but in most instances it's better if you check the level hot. Hope that helps. Good luck!

I needed to know if the motor has to be running or motor off when I check the trans fluid?

YES the ENGINE needs to be running while you check the Transmission Fluid level Be careful NOT TO ADD TOO MUCH as it is harder to get it out than to get it in Should also take Van for a run to get a true reading Not just around the block Take it out for a good 5 minutes minimum drive

when changing transmission fluid there are 2 level marks on dipstick which one would show it's full bottom or top mark ,,,thanks