pre trip inspection test class b

CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test

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The pre-trip inspection test is neither an endorsement test nor a written test … but it is an essential part of the commercial driver’s license testing process.

The pre-trip vehicle inspection test is basically a skills test that is designed to determine if a driver can identify which features and equipment on a test vehicle should be inspected before operating the vehicle.

The test can cover a wide variety of equipment located both inside and outside of a truck. For example, the test could cover hoses and belts, specific parts of the engine, oil level, mirrors and windshield and much more. We’ll discuss in more detail what is covered on the test later in this guide.

Right now, let’s proceed on and take a close look at the test itself and the testing process.

Test Overview

The purpose of the vehicle inspection test is to both determine if a vehicle is safe to operate and to determine if a driver knows how to ensure his or her vehicle is safe to operate.

During the vehicle inspection test, the driver is expected to explain or show their knowledge of the vehicle inspection process. That means the driver will have to walk around the vehicle and point to or touch each item and explain to the examiner what they are checking and why.

If you do not pass this test, any other endorsement tests that you have scheduled will be canceled.

Before you go to the DMV to this and other endorsement exams, you should visit your state’s DMV website and find the following:

Age requirement for taking the test – most states require applicants to be 18 years of age with a valid driver’s license. If the driver is going to be driving from state to state, most states require that they be 21 years of age with a valid driver’s license.

Identification documents that most be produced to prove your identity. Sample documents that acceptable often include a birth certificate and a valid driver’s license.  

Fees that will be due before taking the test. Also, as part of this step, be sure to check what payment methods are accepted at the DMV office you will be visiting.

What’s on the Test?

You will be required to conduct both an internal and external inspection of the test vehicle.

That means on the internal inspection you will have to identify and check such things as: engine hoses, engine belts, oil pressure, coolant level, power steering fluid, mirrors and windshield, safety equipment, temperature gauge, air gauge and more.

On the external inspection you will need to identify and check such things as: steering box, hoses and linkage, air brakes, suspension, wheels, tires, doors, splash guards and more.

During the test, the driver will NOT have to crawl under the hood or under the vehicle. The brake lights, emergency flashers, turn signals, and horn must be checked and if any of these items do not work, the skills and road portions of the test process will immediately be postponed.

One more thing, when taking the inspection test you may be able to use the guides shown in your commercial driver’s license handbook but you cannot have any instructions or notes written on them.

Here are some sample questions that you will need to be able to answer when conducting the pre-trip inspection:

• How much play is allowed in engine compartment belts?
• What might puddles on the ground or dripping fluids on the underside of the engine and transmission indicate?
• How should you go about checking the engine coolant level?
• When checking the wheels, what might rust around a nut indicate?
• How do you check the power steering fluid?

How to Prepare for the Test

We recommend a three step approach to preparing for this test.

Step One – study your commercial driver’s license handbook, paying particular attention to the pre-trip inspection section. Read this section multiple times and try to commit everything to memory.

Step Two – Take pre-trip inspection practice tests to asses and further increase your understanding of this topic. We offer pre-trip inspection practice tests right here .

Step Three – Take what you’ve learned and apply it to a real world truck. It’s one thing to see something in print but you should also look at a physical truck so that you know where essential components are and you can identify them.

Test Taking Tips – Improve Your Chances to Pass

Things you can do to improve your chances of passing this test include getting a good night’s rest the night before the exam.

You should also eat well before the test. This will ensure your mind and body have fuel needed to successfully execute the inspection.

Still more things that you can do include taking some deep breaths to relax yourself before beginning the test. You should also be very familiar with where the DMV is located and how to get there. Then you should plan on leaving early so that you will have to compose yourself before the test and you won’t feel rushed and stressed when you begin.

We also recommend scheduling an appointment at the DMV to avoid any long wait that can make you feel tired and stressed and negatively impact your test performance.

The pre-trip inspection test is a very important test because failing to pass this test will prevent you from being able to move an take scheduled endorsement exams.

This is done for a reason – because being able to identify that a truck is safe to operate is something that is critical for drivers to know how to do. Failure to master this skill can put lives at risk on the roadways.

So don’t take this test for granted. Study the handbook, take practice tests and be sure to practice inspections on real trucks to further expand your knowledge. Do these things and you’ll pass this test with flying colors and be able to move on to receiving the endorsements you covet.

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CDL how-to guides

Mastering the CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Exam: A Complete Guide

Learn how to conduct thorough pre-trip inspections with our guide, a critical component for commercial vehicle safety.

Written by Andrei Zakhareuski. With over 16 years of expertise, Andrei leads Driving-Tests.org, a top online resource for driver education. His leadership has established vital partnerships with over 2,600 libraries, educational bodies, and state agencies.

The CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Exam is an integral part of obtaining your commercial driver’s license. This guide covers Class A and Class B pre-trip inspections, provides a checklist, and offers tips for memorizing the inspection process.

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​ CDL Class A Pre-Trip Inspection

Engine Compartment Inspection

Includes checking for leaks, belt tension, and the condition of hoses, among other components.

Cab Check/Engine Start

Involves inspecting the cab’s interior, gauges, and starting the engine to check for abnormalities.

Brake Check

Focuses on air brake systems, including air brake checks and the parking brake test.

​ CDL Class B Pre-Trip Inspection

Vehicle Overview

Begin with a general overview of the vehicle, checking for obvious signs of damage or issues.

External Inspection

Inspect all external components, including tires, lights, and mirrors.

Internal Inspection

Check all internal controls, ensuring everything is functional and within reach.

​ Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

• Lights and reflector s: Ensure all are clean and functional.
• Engine oil and coolant levels : Check for adequate levels.
• Steering mechanism : Ensure it’s secure and functioning.
• Horn : Test for functionality.
• Windshield wipers : Check for operability and condition.
• Mirror s: Adjust for optimal visibility.
• Emergency equipment : Ensure presence and accessibility.
• Air brake system : Test for leaks and proper pressure.

​ Tips for Memorizing the Pre-Trip Inspection for CDL

• Create a Routine : Develop a consistent order in which to conduct your inspection.
• Use Mnemonics : Create acronyms or phrases to help remember the steps.
• Practice Regularly : Hands-on practice is the most effective way to memorize the inspection process.
• Visual Aids : Use diagrams or checklists as visual reminders.

Pro Tip : Practice the pre-trip inspection in a real-world setting. The more you perform the inspection in a practical environment, the more natural it will become.

Remember, the pre-trip inspection is not just a test requirement – it’s a fundamental safety practice every commercial driver should master. For more resources and detailed guides, visit Driving-Tests.org .

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• Start a free Pre-Trip Inspection practice test:
• CDL Class A Pre-Trip Inspection
• CDL Class B Pre-Trip Inspection
• Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
• Tips for Memorizing the Pre-Trip Inspection for CDL

CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Studying this Class-A CDL pre-trip inspection checklist is an important part of truck driver training. Before getting your Class-A CDL and finding an entry level truck driving job , most states will require students to pass a DOT (department of transportation) pre-trip inspection test and a general knowledge test .

Each company’s pre-trip inspection varies slightly. Most likely you will have to do the coupling system, light check and in-cab inspections plus one of the remaining three sections.

Pre Trip Inspection Checklist

Download free and print it! Printable Pre Trip Inspection Checklist (PDF)

There are many sections to learn but the test is not as difficult as it may seem. Studying our simplified Class-A pre-trip inspection checklist and taking classes at your local CDL training school will get you prepared.

Engine Compartment

Driver door fuel area, coupling area, light check, in-cab inspection and brake tests, belt driven alternator, belt driven water pump, brake chamber, brake lining, caste nuts and cotter pins, coolant reservoir, gear box and hoses, gear driven air compressor, gear driven power steering pump.

• General Hoses

Leaf Springs

Power steering fluid reservoir, shock absorber, slack adjuster and push rod, spring hanger, steering column, what to check for:.

When checking the engine compartment, you will always want to make sure the following components are properly mounted and secured. You should also make sure they are not cracked, bent or broken. The items you will need to check for include:

• Make sure all of the wires are connected. The belt should not be cracked or frayed and the free play on the belt should be between ½ to ¾ of an inch.
• The free play on the belt should be between ½ to ¾ of an inch. Also check all the hoses running to and from the water pump to make sure nothing is leaking.
• The brake chamber should not be leaking air.
• The brake drum should be properly mounted and secure.
• The brake hose is rubber, so it is important to make sure it is not leaking air.
• Check for oil or debris on the lining. There should be at least ¼ of an inch of friction material.
• Make sure all three caste nuts and cotter pins are present.
• The reservoir should not leaking and must be filled to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Make sure the drag link is properly mounted and secure, and not cracked, bent or broken.
• The gear box and hoses should have no abrasions, bulges or cuts, and should not be leaking.
• Although the air compressor is hard to see, you must make sure it is properly mounted and does not leak.
• The steering pump is located in the same place as the air compressor and is also gear driven. Ensure the steering pump is not leaking.

General Hoses (Passenger and Driver’s Side)

• The hoses should be secure at both ends. There should be no abrasions, bulges or cuts. Fluids run through these hoses, so it is important to make sure they are not leaking.
• The hub seal (or axle seal) should not be leaking and should be filled to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Make sure none of the leaf springs have shifted.
• Check for leaks under the truck.
• There should be no lug nuts missing. Look for rust trails, powder residue and cracks around the bolt holes.
• The oil level should be filled to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Make sure the pitman arm is properly mounted and secure. It should be not cracked, bent or broken.
• Make sure this reservoir is not leaking and filled to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• The rim cannot have any unauthorized welds.
• Make sure the shock absorber is not leaking. If it is leaking, the leak will be at the point where the top and bottom portion of the shock meet.
• With the brakes released and pulled by hand, the push rod should never move more than one inch.
• The spring hanger should be properly mounted and secure.
• Make sure the steering column is properly mounted and secure. It should not be cracked, bent or broken.
• Look for abrasions, bulges or cuts on the tread or sidewalls. Tread depth should have a depth no less than 4/32 of an inch. Tires must be properly filled to the manufacturer’s specifications. This can be checked with an air gauge.
• Make sure the tie rod is properly mounted and secure, not cracked, bent or broken.
• Make sure all are accounted for.

Back to top of Engine Compartment

Catwalk and Steps

Door and hinges, drive shaft, exhaust system, frame and cross members, spring mount.

Again it is important to make sure these items are properly mounted and secure. Look for cracks, bends, and breaks.

• The actual airbag is rubber, so it is important to check for abrasions, bulges, cuts and leaks, in addition to any missing mounting bolts.
• The axle seal should not be leaking and should be filled to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Make sure to mention the brake chamber is not leaking air.
• Make sure the brake drum is secured properly. Also look for cracks, bends and breaks.
• Check the brake hose at both ends to make sure it is not leaking air.
• There should be no oil or debris on the brake lining. There should be at least ¼ of an inch of friction material.
• The cat walk and steps should be clear of any loose objects.
• Physically demonstrate that the doors open, close and latch properly. Door seals should not be worn, torn or rotten.
• The drive shaft should not be twisted and the u-joints should be free of any debris.
• The tread and sidewalls should have no abrasions, bulges or cuts. The tread depth should be no less than 2/32 of an inch. Tires should be properly filled to the manufacturer’s specifications. This can be checked with an air gauge.
• The exhaust system should show no signs of leaks.
• There should be no unauthorized holes or welds. Bundle up the cross members to ensure none are missing.
• Fuel should not be leaking from the tank and the cap should always be on tight.
• Rust trails could indicate loose bolts, while powder residue and racks around the bolts could mean the bolts have been over-tightened.
• Mirrors should be clean for best visibility.
• Make sure the mud flap is secured properly. Also look for cracks, bends and breaks.
• Make sure to mention there should be never be any unauthorized welds.
• The shock absorber should be secure at both ends and not leaking. If it does leak, it will leak in the middle.
• With the brakes released and pulled by hand, the push rod should not move more than one inch.
• If you are equipped with duals, check to see there is proper spacing between the tires and there is nothing stuck.
• The spring arm should be secure at both ends.
• The spring mount should be secure at both ends.
• Make sure the torque arm is secured properly. Also look for cracks, bends and breaks.
• Make sure to check and mention that no U-bolts are missing.

Back to  top of Driver Door Fuel Area

Electric Line

Locking jaws, mounting bolts, release arm, sliding fifth wheel locking pin.

• Air lines should be secure at both ends with no abrasions, bulges or cuts. They should not be leaking, dragging or tangled.
• Make sure the apron is properly mounted and secure. Look for cracks, bends and breaks.
• Make sure there is enough space between the tractor mudflap and the trailer landing gear so that they don’t hit each other when making a turn.
• The electric line should be secure at both ends. There should be no abrasions, bulges, cuts or exposed wires.
• The gap is not an actual item, however there should be no space between the apron and the skid plate.
• The seals should be in good condition with no cracks, signs of rotting, or leaking air.
• Make sure the king pin is properly mounted and secure. Look for cracks, bends and breaks.
• You must physically check that the locking jaws is fully locked around the king pin.
• No mounting bolts should be missing.
• Make sure the platform is properly mounted and secure. Look for cracks, bends and breaks.
• The release arm should be in the fully locked position.
• The skid plate needs to be properly lubed.
• The pin must be in the fully locked position.

Back to top of Coupling Area

Header Board

Landing gear, rear door and hinges.

• Shock Absorbers

Tandem Frame and Release

Trailer tire.

• Again make sure the airbag has no abrasions, bulges, cuts or leakings. The airbag should not be missing any mounting bolts.
• The brake chamber should be properly mounted so that is does not leak air.
• The brake hose should be secure at both ends with no abrasions, bulges, cuts or leaks.
• Check for oil or debris on the brake lining. There should be at least ¼ of an inch of friction material.
• There cannot be any missing cross members.
• The header board cannot have any holes or missing rivets.
• The landing gear must be fully raised and the cradle handle secure.
• Rust trails indicate loose bolts. Powder residue and cracks around the bolt holes could be an indication of over-tightened bolts.
• The rims cannot have any unauthorized welds.
• The rear door should open, close and latch properly. Door seals should not be worn, torn or dry rotten.
• The shock absorber should be checked at both ends for leaks.
• When the brakes are released and pulled by hand, the push rod should not move more than one inch.
• Release handle and locking pins should be in the fully locked position.

There should be no abrasions, bulges or cuts to the tread or sidewalls. Tread depth should be no less than 2/32 of an inch. The tire should be properly filled to manufacturer’s specifications and checked with an air gauge.

• Front of the truck
• Both sides of the truck
• Rear of the truck
• Both sides of the trailer
• Rear of the trailer

Back to top of Trailer

The five functions are:

• Left turn signal
• Right turn signal
• Four way flashers
• High/low beams
• Brake lights

Back to top of Light Check

• Airbrake Test

Air Pressure Gauges

Emergency equipment, heater and defroster, lighting indicators, oil pressure gauge, parking brake, service brake check, water temperature gauge, windshield and mirrors, windshield wipers and washers.

The last section is In-Cab Inspection and Brake Tests. For the In-Cab Inspection you will once again want to make sure all of the following components are properly mounted and secure. As well as the following:

Air Brake Test

There are three stages to an air brake test:

• Applied Pressure Test – When doing the Applied Pressure Test, you will want to build the air pressure to governor cut out. Put the truck in the lowest gear, turn the engine off and immediately turn it back on. Push in the tractor and trailer valves which will then release the parking brakes. Push and hold the brake pedal, allowing the gauges to stabilize. When the gauges have stabilized, announce the Primary and Secondary PSI. Listen for air leaks while doing this.
• Warning Light and Buzzer – Pump down on the brake pedal until the warning light and buzzer comes on. This is typically at or before 60 PSI.
• Tractor/Trailer Protection Valve Pop Out – Pump down on the brake pedal until the tractor and trailer protection valves pop out, this will be between 20 and 40 PSI.
• The air pressure gauges should build to governor cut out.
• Your truck should have a fire extinguisher, three red reflective triangles and spare electrical fuses.
• Demonstrate both the heater and defroster are working properly.

Horns (Air Horn and City Horn)

• Blow both horns to make sure they are working.
• Check the left turn, right turn, four way flashers and high beams; also point these out on the dashboard.
• Make sure transmission is in neutral and then fully depress the clutch. Turn the key on, check the ABS light, announce when it comes on and off, and start the engine.
• The seat belt should not be ripped or frayed and should adjust and latch properly.
• The engine oil pressure gauge should rise to normal operating range.
• Trailer Parking Brakes – Set the trailer brake, release the tractor brake, then tug lightly on the trailer.
• Tractor Parking Brakes – Set the tractor brake, release the trailer brake and tug lightly on the trailer.
• Release both the tractor and trailer brakes. Drive at idle speed. Apply the service brake to make sure you come to a complete stop and that it doesn’t pull to the left or right when applying the brakes.
• The voltmeter should be charging between 13 and 14 volts.
• The water temperature gauge should also rise to normal operating range.
• The windshield and mirrors must be clean, with no obstructions and in proper adjustment.
• Demonstrate the wipers and washers are working properly by spraying the windshield.

Back to top of In-Cab Inspection and Brake Tests

During a CDL pre-trip inspection, truckers inspect many aspects of their commercial vehicle, including the overall safety of the vehicle; major hoses, fluid levels, and vehicle belts; the clutch or gear shift; and emergency equipment. The driver demonstrates their knowledge by walking around the vehicle, checking various safety components and explaining why each part should be checked for safety.

Reference and practice tests:

• Printable Pre Trip Inspection Checklist (PDF)
• CDL General Knowledge Practice Test
• Pre Trip Inspection Practice Test
• CDL HAZMAT Endorsement Practice Test

Edited for 2024 on  12/5/23

Pre-Trip Inspection CDL Practice Tests

Our Free Online Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test questions and answers will prepare you online to Prepare for the Pre-Trip portion of the CDL skills test. Each test has  3 testing modes  to help you prepare and easily remember the information.

• Download your state CDL manual and open up it up in another tab of your browser. Read it over, but you don’t need to try to memorize it!
• On this page, begin the first of our CDL practice tests in Classic Mode . See how well you do, but try not to stress out about any mistakes at this point.
• Next, switch to Practice Mode  for intense preparation, complete with instant correct answers after every question and a CDL reference. 
• When you think you’re ready, take the exam! Each Exam Mode practice test is timed and you get your grade and results only after you’ve finished each test.  This is very similar to the official state CDL written exams!

Note: For more information, see our guide on  How to Pass the Official State CDL Exams .

Choose Pre-Trip Inspection Tests Here

• Get Started Now On Pre-Trip Inspection Test 1 (Classic Mode)

CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Test and How To Memorize It

The pre-trip is one of the things that students fear the most and fail the most. Let’s face it, the pre-trip is intimidating because there is so much stuff to memorize. The key to learning the pre-trip inspection is preparation, memorization, and repetition. Don’t go away, in this article I have exactly what you need to make sure you pass it the first time.

It is going to take time for you to memorize everything and the only way to do this is by repeating it over and over.

Hopefully, the school where you are being trained is giving you enough time to practice it everyday you are there.

I can’t stress that enough, regardless of which method you use below you need to repeat it daily and practice on your own.

Don’t expect that your run through once a day with your instructor is enough, it isn’t.

In this article I’m going to give you 8 tips that will help you memorize the pre-trip so you are able to pass it your first time and move on with your driving career.

1. REPETITION!

The only way to memorize the pre-trip is to repeat it over and over. Start with the engine area and work your way around the truck and finally inside the cab.

There is no way around consistent repetition. The more you do it the more you will memorize it. It’s just that simple.

Now that we have established how important repetition is I want you go through the rest of this list and figure out which method (or methods) works best for you and then repeat it over and over.

2. Record Someone Else

You can use YouTube to find a video of someone doing a pretrip and for the most part they work pretty well (more about YouTube later).

Take it a step further though. Ask someone (like and instructor or friend) to do a pre-trip and video record them.

While they are doing it try to use the zoom function on your camera so that you know what the parts look like and what is being checked.

Students that I come across have said that this method works really well because you have quality video and audio. Just watch your recording over and over and this stuff will be engraved in your brain.

Just make sure you are absolutely sure that the person you record knows what they are doing and are showing you everything. You don’t want to watch a video that skips anything that will be on the test.

3. Smaller Chunks

Break down the pre-trip into smaller chunks so that it is not overwhelming. If you think about memorizing everything at once it will be a daunting task.

My suggestion is you learn your air brakes first, then the inside of the cab, the engine compartment, and then the rest of the truck. You can chose any order that you want to as long as it helps you out.

Memorize each part and then tie it all together. You will find that learning the pre-trip is much easier if you do it this way.

4. Use Your Imagination

Do this while in bed before you fall asleep. Warning: the pre-trip is going to consume a lot of your attention during training, even while you sleep!

When you wake up go through a video you found on YouTube or the one you recorded (see #2) and correct any errors you made.

5. Find A Truck

It really helps if you have access to a truck. Pictures alone are not enough. Most of you are probably getting your training through a private school, company sponsored training , or community college.

All of these will give you access to an actual truck and should be taking time each day to practice the pre-trip.

Take advantage of this time with the truck to practice your pre-trip as much as possible. When class ends try to stick around to get in some extra practice, this could be the difference between passing and failing.

6. Watch A Pre-Trip Video On YouTube (not straight through)

There are a lot of videos on YouTube that you can choose from. Let me save you some time, these two (below) is the best because it has good audio and video quality, is accurate, and is easy to follow.

Don’t watch the video straight through over and over. Like I mentioned earlier you should chunk it into smaller sections.

Watch a section, pause it, and list off the names of the parts and things to look for. Play it again to see if you are getting them correct. When you finish one section go on to another section until you finish it.

Don’t move on to a new section until you have memorized the section you started. When you complete all the sections you should be able to watch the whole pre-trip and repeat everything on it from start to finish.

If you want to challenge yourself a little try mixing up the sections so that the sections that was last is now first. This will let you know if you are really memorizing everything.

7. Use A Checklist

Probably the most popular ways to memorize the pre-trip is to use a checklist. No doubt that wherever you are getting your training at is already giving you a checklist to use.

Use it. A lot.

Not all checklists are done in the same order but they should all cover the same stuff. I like this one here (printable PDF document) by the people at Trucking Truth , it’s easy to follow and is accurate.

Every possible thing that you will need to identify during the pre-trip is on this checklist.

8. Use Pictures/Diagrams

There are a ton of picture resources out there that will help you memorize the test. Just do a search for “cdl pre-trip inspection pictures” and you will find a ton of stuff.

The picture I like most are these (link to PDF) by Driver Solutions. The pictures are easy to see and distinct arrows are used to point to each part. Along with pictures is an explanation of what to look for and what to say for each individual part.

What Is The Pre-Trip Inspection?

The pre-trip inspection is an inspection of the commercial vehicle including the cab, engine compartment, and exterior.

A driver of a commercial vehicle is required, by federal law, to complete one every day before driving the vehicle and at least once in a 24 hour period. Every single time you begin driving your truck you will have to complete a pre-trip.

The purpose of it is to make sure that the vehicle is safe to drive.

This gives you a chance to get whatever is wrong fixed. If you miss something and are inspected it could result in citations by the DOT.

A lot of drivers find it to be a pain in the rear but you really need to do it every single time you drive your truck. Don’t listen to the irresponsible driver at the truck stop that tells you it’s okay to skip it. It’s not okay.

How Long Does An Inspection Take?

A pre-trip usually takes about 15-45 minutes to complete. It really depends on the type of truck you are inspecting and your experience.

After several years of driving it’s inevitable that your pre-trip is going to be quicker because you are better at doing it and you know what to look for.

As a new driver you should take your time and make sure you do it right. Make it a habit to always conduct a thorough inspection so that you run into less problems while on the road.

What To Say During The Pre-Trip Test

Knowing what to say is important during the test. There are some specific language the person testing you is going to be listening for. More than likely you already heard these phrases but here is an easy way to remember what to say:

PMS— Properly Mounted, Secure ABC— Abrasions, Bulges, Cuts CBB— Cracked, Bent, Broken

There are some tricks that you can use to make sure you say the right thing, here they are: 1 . If its mounted (almost everything is) use the words, “Properly Mounted, Secure” (PMS) 2. If its rubber use the words, “Abrasions, Bulges, Cuts” (ABC) 3. If it’s metal or another hard surface use the words, “Cracked, Bent, Broken” (CBB) 4. If it has fluid or air going through it or in it remember to say, “Not Leaking”

This language shouldn’t be new to you, hopefully the school that is training you has already taught you this stuff.

What Should You Cover During The Pre-Trip?

The areas that you should cover include the coupling system, light check, in-cab inspection, engine compartment, trailer, and drivers door fuel area. Make sure that you are prepared for all of these.

Also, keep in mind that CDL schools/classes may cover the pre-trip in different orders. It’s okay though, they all cover the same stuff. The order that you practice is probably going to be different from someones in a different school/class.

There is no correct order as long as you memorize everything.

What Will Be Tested On The Actual State Pre-trip Inspection Test?

You will be required to perform a pre-trip for the light check, the in-cab inspection, and the coupling system. These 3 areas you have to complete.

After completing those 3 areas your examiner will have you perform one of the following: the engine compartment, trailer, drivers door fuel door, or the entire vehicle.

You will not know ahead of time which one the examiner will choose. This is why it is crucial that you know all the areas.

What Else You Can Do To Prepare?

Aside from the ways listed above to help you memorize the pre-trip there are some other things you can do.

One thing you can do is try answering some practice tests like these here from Trucking Truth. There are 5 free practice tests you can take.

I really find that these practice tests reinforce what you need to know for the real test. It’s worth your time try them out just to see how you do.

What If You Fail The Pre-Trip?

If you do fail the pre-trip you are able to retake it. Make sure you know why you failed the test, ask the inspector if he/she can specifically tell you what you did wrong.

This is usually never a problem because the inspectors want you to know what you missed so that you can pass the test the next time.

One more thing, don’t be embarrassed because you didn’t pass it on your first try! This happens to a lot of people! You are not the only person that will fail the pre-trip and you won’t be the last.

Study what it is that you missed/did wrong and pass it on your second attempt.

Extra Tips For Passing The Pre-Trip Test

Probably the most common reason people fail the pre-trip is because they are nervous.

The two things that will help you out the most is to always remember that the pre-trip is a verbal contact test.

As you start walking towards the vehicle you should already be looking for any leaks under it, broken marker lights, loose mirror brakes and anything else that seems out of place.

BE VERBAL! Your number one priority is to make sure the examiner knows that you know what you are talking about. The more you talk the greater your chances are to pass the test.

Even if it might seem you are going overboard just keep going. Examiners tend to like when testers are verbal.

http://www.truthabouttrucking.com/fls/Pre_Trip_Inspection.pd

CONTACT! The second most important thing you can do is make contact with the item you are describing.  For example, as you are explaining the radiator brace you need to make sure you point to or put your hand on the brace as well.

Your examiner wants to make sure that you actually know what the item is that you are explaining.

Make sure you are pointing the the correct item though! Don’t describe the radiator brace while pointing to the turbo!

Again, make sure you are VERBAL and CONTACT every single item (correctly) that you are describing.

Now go pass that test! Good luck driver!

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Pre-Trip Inspection Study Guide

Our Pre-Trip Inspection Study Guide has everything you need to prepare for the Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Exam . Our study guide will cover the pre-trip inspection terminology as well as a thorough list of all of the parts you will be inspecting on the vehicle. For each part you will be inspecting there will also be a list of items you will be checking for. Our study guide is broken down into the following sections:

• What You Need to Know About Pre-Trip Inspection

Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Questions

• Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Pre-Trip Inspection Videos

Pre-trip inspection printable resources, what you need to know about the pre-trip inspection.

The Pre-Trip Inspection is a thorough inspection of the vehicle and all of its major systems. Inspecting the vehicle before driving each day is a Federal requirement and normally takes about 15 minutes. It must be logged in your logbook as "on duty not driving."

You will have to do thorough safety inspections of the coupling system, the vehicle lights, engine compartment, tires and brakes, the chassis, the fuel tanks, and an in-cab inspection.

The following information is a brief summary of Daniel's Complete Pre-Trip Inspection taken from our oustanding free PDF download:

Engine Compartment

You will be checking the engine compartment for any sort of leaks. You will also be checking to see if all components are properly mounted and secured. None of the mounts must be cracked, bent, or broken.

You will be checking all hoses to make sure they aren't leaking, frayed, or sliced and the fluid levels including the oil level, the coolant, and the power steering fluid.

You must check the components like the water pump, the power steering pump, and the alternator to make sure nothing is leaking, the belts are not frayed, and that everything is properly mounted and secured.

From inside the engine compartment you will also find the steering system, the front suspension system, and the front brake system. All components of these systems must be properly mounted and secured without anything being cracked, bent, or broken. Finally you will be checking the tires, rims, and axle seals to make sure the tires are properly inflated, the rim isn't bent or cracked, and the axle seals are not leaking.

Fuel Tank And Battery Area

You will be standing along the side of the tractor doing a series of checks on the mirrors, fuel tanks, batteries, exhaust system, and more. You will check to make sure nothing is bent, cracked, broken, or leaking.

Check the mirrors, door hinges, door handle to make sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Check to make sure there is no fuel leaking and that the fuel cap is secured and the gasket is not missing.

Check the exhaust system to make sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Check the driveshaft, cat walk, and steps to make sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken.

Check the frame and crossmembers for structural integrity. Check the air lines going to the trailer to make sure they're properly connected and that there are no abrasions, bulges, or cuts. Make sure the gaskets are present.

Check the suspension system and brakes on the drive axles, making sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Make sure the brake linings are the proper thickness and that the air bags and properly inflated. Inspect the brake chambers, slack adjusters, and pushrods are properly mounted and secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. With the brakes released and pulled by hand, the Push Rod should not move more than 1 inch.

Check the rims, tires, and axle seals of the drive tires for proper inflation, no leaks around the seal, and the lugs are all present and secured.

Coupling System

You will be standing where the tractor and trailer are connected and you'll start by checking the electrical line and air lines to make sure they're properly mounted and secure at both ends. No abrasions, bulges or cuts. Not leaking air. Make sure the electrical line has no wires exposed. Check the gladhands to make sure the seals are in good condition, no cracks or signs of dry rotting. Not leaking air.

Check the skid plate of the fifth wheel and the apron of the trailer to make sure there is no debris and nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Make sure the fifth wheel is properly greased. Also make sure there is no gap in between the fifth wheel and the trailer apron once the tractor and trailer are coupled. Make sure the kingpin of the trailer is properly mounted and not cracked, bent, or broken and that the locking jaws of the fifth wheel are properly secured when the tractor and trailer are coupled.

Check the mounting bolts where the fifth wheel attaches to the tractor frame. Make sure there are no missing bolts and that everything is secured properly. Check the locking pin if you having a sliding fifth wheel to make sure it's properly locked into place.

Make sure that there is the proper clearance space between the tractor mudflap and the trailer landing gear so that they don’t hit each other when making a turn.

You will start inspecting the trailer at the head board, which is the front wall of the trailer. Make sure there are no holes or missing rivets. Check the landing gear to make sure it is properly mounted and secure. Not cracked, bent, or broken. Make sure the fully raised and the handle is secure in the cradle when the tractor and trailer are coupled.

Check the frame and crossmembers under the trailer to make sure they're not cracked, bent, or broken. Check the tandem frame and release pins to make sure the frame is in good condition and the release handle and locking pins are in the fully locked position.

You will check the entire suspension and brake system for the trailer tandems the same way you did for the drive axles of the tractor. You will also make sure the mudflaps are properly secured. For dual tires check to see that there is proper space between the tires and there is nothing stuck between the tires.

Check the rear door and hinges to make sure they are properly mounted and nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Make sure the door seals are not worn, torn, or dry rotted.

Light Check

You will be checking all of the lights and reflectors on both the tractor and the trailer. Check the reflectors and reflective tape to make sure they are properly mounted and secure, not cracked, bent, or broken, and clean and illuminated. Check that you have the proper color of amber to the front and sides, and red to the rear.

Start by turning on your marker lights and headlights. Now walk around the entire truck and trailer and point out the lights. Give the function of the light and the location. You should then ask your examiner to help you check your five functions.

While you're sitting in the drivers seat, the examiner will stand to the front of the truck, then behind the trailer. He will then check your Turn Signals, Four Way Flashers and Brake Lights. You must do each function at every location.

The five locations that you must check your lights:

• Front of the Truck
• Both sides of the Truck
• Rear of the Truck
• Both sides of the Trailer
• Rear of the Trailer

The Five Functions you are checking for:

• Left Turn Signal
• Right Turn Signal
• Four Way Flashers
• High Beams/Low Beams
• Brake Lights

In-Cab Inspection

The in-cab inspection and air brake check will cover the various gauges and systems inside the cab along with several tests to make sure you air brake system is working properly.

You will start by checking the following:

• Seat Belt- Properly Mounted and Secure. Not ripped or frayed Adjusts and latches properly.
• Fire Extinguisher- Properly Mounted and Secure. Fully charged
• Three Red Reflective Triangles- My three red reflective triangles are GIVE LOCATION
• Spare Electrical Fuses- My spare electrical fuses are GIVE LOCATION
• Volmeter, Oil Pressure Gauge, Water Temperature Gauge, and Air Pressure Gauge all show proper operation
• City horn and air horn functioning properly
• The windshield and mirrors are clean, no cracks or breaks, no obstructions. The mirrors are in proper adjustment.
• Windshield Wipers and Washers - Demonstrate that the washers work by spraying the windshield. The Wipers are: Properly Mounted and Secure and operate smoothly. The blades aren't cracked or dry rotten.
• Heater and Defroster - Demonstrate that both the Heater and Defroster are working properly.
• Lighting Indicators - Left Turn, Right Turn, Four Way Flashers, and High Beams.

Trailer Parking Brakes - Set the Trailer Brake, release the tractor brake, and then tug lightly on the trailer.

Tractor Parking Brakes- Then set the Tractor Brake, release the trailer brake, and then tug lightly on the tractor.

Service Brake Check - Release both Tractor and Trailer Brakes. Now drive at idle speed. Apply the Service Brake to make sure you come to a complete stop, and that it doesn't pull to the left or right when applying the brakes.

Air Brake Test

The air brake test will consist of a leakdown test to make sure your air brakes aren't leaking air and losing pressure. It will also test the warning lights and buzzer to make sure the driver gets the proper warning if the air pressure drops too low.

There are three stages to an Air Brake Test

#1: Applied Pressure Test

#2: Warning Light and Buzzer

#3 Tractor/Trailer Protection Valve Pop Out

Applied Pressure Test: Build the air pressure to governor cut out. Put the truck in the lowest gear. Then turn off the engine Immediately turn the engine back on. Push in both the tractor and trailer valves. (This will release the parking brakes.) Push and hold the Brake pedal fully. Allow the gauges to stabilize. Announce the gauges have stabilized and the Primary and Secondary PSI. With the Brakes fully pressed, you should not lose more than 4 PSI in one minute. Announce that you are listening for air leaks during that minute.

Warning Light and Buzzer Test: Pump down on the Brake pedal until the warning light and buzzer comes on, at or before 60 PSI.

Tractor/Trailer Protection Valve Pop Out Test: Pump down on the brake pedal until both the tractor and trailer protection valves pop out. They should both pop out between 40 and 20 PSI.

We have a ton of Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Questions along with the answers and a complete scoring system in our Free Online CDL Practice Tests :

The Engine Compartment Section will include questions about checking the oil level and coolant levels, inspecting belt-driven engine components (like the water pump, alternator, and air compressor), and the safety devices required in the cab. There will also be questions regarding the windshield wipers and free play in the steering wheel.

The Lights And Brakes Section will include questions about dashboard indicator lights, inspecting the parking brakes, and doing a leakdown test on the air brakes. It will also include questions about the low air pressure warning signal and testing your air horn and city horn.

The Suspension And Steering Section will include questions about the tractor protection valve, inspecting the steering box, and inspecting many suspension system parts. It will also include questions about welds being present on tire rims and the minimum tread depth required on steering axle tires.

The Tires And Coupling Devices Section will include questions about shiny trails or rusty threads on lug nuts, inspecting the battery box and cover, and inspecting electrical lines. It will also contain questions about inspecting the coupling devices and the fifth wheel skid plate.

The Emergency Equipment And Fifth Wheel Section will include questions about additional emergeny equipment required by school buses, inspecting the gap between the kingpin apron and the fifth wheel skid plate, and the landing gear securement. It will also contain questions about inspecting driver mirrors and the trailer frame.

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist - Class A

Our pre-trip inspection checklist covers every part of the truck from front to back, both inside and outside of the truck. It covers the air brakes, suspension parts, steering components, wheels and rims, fuel tanks, batteries, lights, and more. It also covers the air brake tug test and checks for everything under the hood including alternator, water pump, fuel pump, fluids, and more.

This is a super handy checklist to study anytime you have a few minutes to spare:

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist - Free Word Document Download (Editable Version)

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist - Free PDF Download (Print Version)

Pre-Trip Inspection Video By Apex CDL Institute

Jeff from Apex Institute does an in-depth explanation of the entire pre-trip inspection process. This video is loaded with tips that go beyond the CDL test to help drivers really understand how to identify problems.

Pretrip Inspection Self-Test By CDL College

The Pretrip Inspection Self-Test By CDL College is really unique. It's a silent video which will show you the part you're inspecting and then gives you a few seconds to figure out what you should be checking for before giving you the answer. Definitely check this one out. Great for practicing before the CDL exam.

Pre-Trip Inspection Video By Averitt Express

This is a complete back to front pre-trip inspection of a truck and trailer by Averitt mainentance associate Kevin Breeding. This thorough pre-trip inspection covers all inportant points of inside the cab, lights, engine, the tractor itself and the trailer.

We have included two print versions of the pre-trip inspection process from Daniel. The first is the entire pre-trip inspection and the second is an abbreviated checklist for the inspection.

• PDF: Daniel's Pre-trip Inspection (Print Version)
• PDF: Daniel's Pre-trip Inspection Checklist (Print Version)

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