Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test
The Pre-Trip Inspection is a critical part of the CDL skills test where you demonstrate your ability to inspect your vehicle for safety. Our free practice test covers engine compartment checks, lights, brakes, tires, suspension, and every component you must identify and explain during the exam.
What's on the Pre-Trip Inspection Test
The pre-trip inspection test covers the components and systems you must check before driving. You'll be tested on the engine compartment, front axle and steering, suspension, brakes, wheels and rims, lights and reflectors, and the in-cab checks. During the skills test, you must physically point out and explain each component and identify any defects.
Who Needs to Pass the Pre-Trip Inspection
Every CDL applicant must pass a pre-trip inspection as part of the skills test, regardless of vehicle class. During the exam, you'll walk around the vehicle, point to each component, explain what you're checking, and identify any defects. Failing the pre-trip inspection means failing the entire skills test, so thorough preparation is essential.
Sample Practice Questions
1. What should you check in the engine compartment during a pre-trip inspection?
- A.Only the oil level
- B.Fluid levels, belts, hoses, and leaks
- C.Only the battery
- D.Only the air filter
Answer: B. The engine compartment check includes all fluid levels (oil, coolant, power steering), belt condition and tension, hose condition, and checking for any leaks underneath the vehicle.
2. What is the minimum tread depth for steer tires?
- A.2/32 inch
- B.4/32 inch
- C.6/32 inch
- D.8/32 inch
Answer: B. Steer (front) tires must have at least 4/32 inch of tread depth in every major groove. Drive and trailer tires require a minimum of 2/32 inch.
3. What should you look for when inspecting wheels and rims?
- A.Only the tire pressure
- B.Cracks, missing lug nuts, rust, and bent rims
- C.Only the hubcaps
- D.Only the valve stems
Answer: B. Wheel and rim inspection includes checking for cracks, missing or loose lug nuts, rust around the studs, and any damage that could cause wheel failure.
4. How do you test the air brake system during a pre-trip inspection?
- A.Only check the pressure gauge
- B.Check pressure build-up, cut-in/cut-out, low pressure warning, and brake operation
- C.Only step on the pedal
- D.Only check the parking brake
Answer: B. The air brake test includes verifying pressure builds correctly, the governor cuts in and out, the low pressure warning activates below 60 psi, and the brakes hold when applied.
5. What must all lights and reflectors be during a pre-trip inspection?
- A.New
- B.Clean, working, and the correct color
- C.LED only
- D.Amber only
Answer: B. All lights must be operational, clean, and the proper color (headlights clear, turn signals amber, tail lights red), and reflectors must be present and not cracked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the pre-trip inspection part of the CDL test?
Yes. The pre-trip inspection is one of three parts of the CDL skills test, along with basic vehicle control and the on-road driving test. You must pass all three to get your CDL.
How long does the pre-trip inspection take during the test?
The pre-trip inspection typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. You must point out and explain each component to the examiner.
What happens if I miss a component during the pre-trip inspection?
Missing a component counts as a point against you. Too many missed points or failing to identify a critical defect will result in failing the skills test.
Can I use a checklist during the pre-trip inspection test?
No. You must perform the inspection from memory. Our free practice test helps you memorize the components and procedures so you can pass confidently.
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