class a pre trip practice test

CDL Pretrip Test

Boost your confidence: the essential cdl pretrip practice test prep, cdl pretrip practice test: essential tips for passing your exam, understanding the importance of cdl pretrip practice test.

At the onset of your journey to becoming a commercial driver, it is vital to comprehend the significance of the CDL pretrip practice test. This evaluation is designed to assess your ability to inspect a vehicle for safety and operational issues, as well as to ensure you are familiar with the components of a commercial vehicle.

Familiarizing Yourself with the Inspection Requirements

Before embarking on the CDL pretrip practice test, it is imperative to acquaint yourself with the inspection requirements mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Familiarize yourself with the various components of a commercial vehicle, including the engine compartment, coupling systems, brake systems, and more.

Effective Strategies for Acing the CDL Pretrip Practice Test

• Consistent Practice Regular practice is paramount to success in the CDL pretrip practice test. Devote time to conducting thorough inspections of commercial vehicles, ensuring you are well-versed in identifying potential safety hazards and mechanical issues.
• Utilize Study Materials Leverage study materials such as manuals, online resources, and practice test questions to reinforce your understanding of commercial vehicle components and inspection procedures.
• Seek Guidance Seek guidance from experienced commercial drivers or instructors to gain valuable insights and tips for acing the pretrip practice test. Their practical knowledge and advice can significantly enhance your preparedness.

Embracing the Opportunity for Growth

Approach the CDL pretrip practice test as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Embrace the challenge and commit to honing your skills in vehicle inspection, as this will not only bolster your chances of passing the test but also contribute to your overall competence as a commercial driver.

By embracing a proactive approach to mastering the CDL pretrip practice test, you can instill confidence in your abilities and pave the way for a successful career in commercial driving. Remember, preparation and diligence are key to conquering this pivotal assessment.

In conclusion, the CDL pretrip practice test serves as a fundamental evaluation of your ability to conduct thorough vehicle inspections, thus emphasizing the importance of meticulous preparation and dedication to mastering commercial vehicle components and inspection procedures. As you embark on this journey, equip yourself with the knowledge and commitment required to excel in the test and lay a solid foundation for a flourishing career in commercial driving.

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 .

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What does the pre-trip inspection exam include.

You will be expected to be able to perform a complete pre-trip inspection on your vehicle, including both in-cab & external features, as well as the engine compartment.

Fluids, belts, brakes, air brakes, and lights are some of the main components to the test.

The pre-trip inspection will ensure that the vehicle that you are operating is safe and road-worthy to drive.

The In-cab pre-trip inspection:

This section will demonstrate that you know how to check that all in-cab functions are operational, including lights, gauges, etc., and ESPECIALLY the air brakes.

Pre-Trip Inspection - My Way! A must see!: In-Cab Pre-trip Inspection

This Pre-Trip is done on my truck and trailer. I physically took the pictures and edited them to my liking. It is a complete Pre-Trip Inspection and features everything you'll need to know.

Video - PreTrip Inspection - Interior Cab

This video shows how to do an in-cab pre-trip inspection

Video - Srtda in cab pre trip and brake test

This video shows how to do an in-cab pre-trip inspection and brake test.

The External pre-trip inspection:

You will be expected to check lights, tires, rims, fluids, belts, etc. Generally, all the components on the outside of the truck & trailer, including the engine compartment.

Forum - Daniel B.: Pre-Trip Inspection - My Way! A must see!

As stated, these are solely based off of how I like to do the Pre-Trip. I give my personal opinions as well as some helpful tips. Your Instructors advice may vary. In the end, just do it the way your Instructor wants you to do it.

Pre-Trip Inspection Video By Apex CDL Institute

This is a complete Pre-Trip inspection video by Apex CDL Institute

Pre-trip checklist, practice exams, and memory aids:

Pretrip Inspection Study Guide

The purpose of the Pretrip Inspection is to be able to do a thorough safety inspection on a commercial vehicle before heading out onto the highway.

Pre-Trip Inspection Free CDL Practice Tests

Our free Pre-Trip Inspection cdl practice questions are designed to help test your knowledge of the CDL Manual and sharpen your skills for taking the CDL permit and endorsement exams.

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Pre-trip inspection self test, cdl class a pre trip inspection self test.

Test your Class A Pre-Trip Inspection knowledge before your CDL Skills Test. Our FREE Pre-Trip Study Guide can help you ace the Pre-Trip Inspection, download it here:

Your CDL Examiner will read instructions similar to these before you begin the inspection "Please demonstrate that you know how to conduct a vehicle inspection as, as you would normally do for any vehicle you are about to operate. You are to conduct the vehicle inspection as outlined in the CDL driver's manual. As you do your inspection, point to or touch the item or items you are inspecting and fully explain what you are inspecting and fully explain what you are inspecting on each item. If you do not do so, you will not get credit for that item. You will conduct a complete vehicle inspection. I will give you instructions prior to each portion to be inspected."

This video will help you practice the pre-trip inspection before you take the test.

• Press play.
• Look at the images on the screen.
• Use your SPACEBAR to stop the video from advancing before the answers pop up.
• Try to determine what you will tell the examiner when you come across the part that you see.
• Press the space bar again to see the correct response.

CDL College is approved by the state to administer the CDL Skills Tests. CDL College not an extension of the Colorado Department of Revenue. We are a private business that charges a fee for our services.

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The Complete Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Due to heavy memorization, the pre-trip inspection is one of the hardest aspects of the CDL test. Also called the “Vehicle Inspection Test,” the pre-trip is one of the tests that trucking students fail the most.

With this pre-trip inspection checklist, we tell you everything you need to know and what you need to check for.   

Engine Compartment – What to Check For:

When checking the engine compartment, you 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 need to check for include:

Belt-Driven Alternator

All of the wires are connected. The belt is not cracked or frayed, and the free play on the belt is between ½ to ¾ of an inch.

Belt-Driven Water Pump

The free play on the belt is between ½ to ¾ of an inch, and all the hoses running to and from the water pump are tightly clamped. Ensure nothing is leaking.

Brake Chamber

The brake chamber is not leaking air.

The brake drum is properly mounted and secure.

The brake hose is rubber; it is not cracked and is not leaking air.

Brake Lining

Check for oil or debris on the lining. There should be at least ¼ of an inch of friction material.

Caste Nuts and Cotter Pins

All three caste nuts and cotter pins are present.

Coolant Reservoir

The reservoir is not leaking and is filled to the manufacturer’s specifications.

 The drag link is properly mounted and secure, and not cracked, bent or broken.

Gear Box and Hoses

The gear box and hoses have no abrasions, bulges or cuts, and are not leaking.

Gear-Driven Air Compressor

The air compressor is properly mounted and does not leak.

Gear-Driven Power Steering Pump

The steering pump is properly mounted and not leaking.

General Hoses (Passenger and Driver’s Side)

The hoses are secure at both ends and are not leaking. There are no abrasions, bulges, or cuts.

The hub seal (or axle seal) is leaking and is filled to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Leaf Springs

None of the leaf springs have shifted or are bent or broken.

There are no signs of leaks under the truck.

There are no lug nuts missing. There are no rust trails, powder residue, or cracks around the bolt holes.

The oil level is filled to the manufacturer’s specifications.

The pitman arm is properly mounted and secure. It is not cracked, bent, or broken.

Power Steering Fluid Reservoir

The power steering reservoir is not leaking and is filled to the manufacturer’s specifications.

The rim does not have any unauthorized welds.

Shock Absorber

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.

Slack Adjuster and Push Rod

With the brakes released and pulled by hand, the push rod does not move more than one inch.

Spring Hanger

The spring hanger is properly mounted and secure.

Steering Column

The steering column is properly mounted and secure. It is not cracked, bent, or broken.

There are no abrasions, bulges, or cuts on the tread or sidewalls. Tread depth should have a depth no less than 4/32 of an inch. Tires are properly filled to the manufacturer’s specifications. This can be checked with an air gauge.

The tie rod is properly mounted and secure, not cracked, bent, or broken.

Make sure all are accounted for.

Driver Door Fuel Area-What to Check For:

Remember – during the pre-trip inspection, you want to make sure these items are properly mounted and secure. Look for cracks, bends, and breaks.

The actual airbag has no abrasions, bulges, cuts, or leaks. The airbag is not missing mounting bolts.

The axle seal is not leaking and is filled to the manufacturer’s specifications.

The brake drum is secured properly and has no cracks, bends or breaks.

Check the brake hose at both ends to make sure it is not leaking air.

There is no oil or debris on the brake lining. There is at least ¼ of an inch of friction material.

Catwalk and Steps

The cat walk and steps are clear of any loose objects.

Door and Hinges

The doors open, close, and latch properly. Door seals should not be worn, torn, or rotten.

Drive Shaft

The drive shaft is not twisted, and the u-joints are free of any debris.

The tread and sidewalls have no abrasions, bulges, or cuts. The tread depth is no less than 2/32 of an inch. Tires are properly filled to the manufacturer’s specifications. This can be checked with an air gauge.

Exhaust System

The exhaust system shows no signs of leaks.

Frame and Cross Members

There are no unauthorized holes or welds. Bundle up the cross members to ensure none are missing.

Fuel is not leaking from the tank, and the cap is on tight.

There are no rust trails, loose bolts, powder residue, or cracks around the bolts.

Mirrors are clean, with no cracks or chips.

The mud flap is secured properly, with no cracks, bends and breaks.

There are no unauthorized welds.

The shock absorber is secure at both ends and not leaking. If it does leak, it is preferable to leak in the middle.

There is proper spacing between the tires and there is nothing stuck.

The spring arm is secure at both ends.

Spring Mount

The spring mount is secure at both ends.

The torque arm is secured properly, with no cracks, bends or breaks.

No u-bolts are missing.

Coupling Area-What to Check For:

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 mud flap and the trailer landing gear, so that they don’t hit each other when making a turn.

Electric Line

The electric lines are secure at both ends. There are no abrasions, bulges, cuts, or exposed wires.

There is no space between the apron and the skid plate.

The seals are in good condition with no cracks, signs of rotting, or leaking air.

The king pin is properly mounted and secure, without cracks, bends and breaks.

Locking Jaws

Physically check that the locking jaws are fully locked around the king pin.

Mounting Bolts

No mounting bolts are missing.

The platform is properly mounted and secure, without cracks, bends and breaks.

Release Arm

The release arm is in the fully locked position.

The skid plate is properly lubed.

Sliding Fifth Wheel Locking Pin

The pin is in the fully locked position.

Trailer- What to Check For :

The airbag has no abrasions, bulges, cuts or leaks, not missing any mounting bolts.

The brake chamber is properly mounted and does not leak air.

The brake hose is secure at both ends with no abrasions, bulges, cuts, or leaks.

No oil or debris on the brake lining and at least ¼ of an inch of friction material.

No missing cross members.

Header Board

The header board does not have any holes or missing rivets.

Landing Gear

The landing gear is fully raised and the cradle handle secure.

No rust trails, powder residue, or cracks around the bolt holes.

The rims do not have any unauthorized welds.

Rear Door and Hinges

The rear door opens, closes, and latches properly. Door seals are not worn, torn, or dry rotten.

The shock absorber is secure at both ends with no leaks.

When the brakes are released and pulled by hand, the push rod does not move more than one inch.

Tandem Frame and Release

Release handle and locking pins are in the fully locked position.

Trailer Tire

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

Light Check

There are five locations where you must check your lights. These include:

• 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 are:

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

Inspection and Brake Tests-What to Check For: In-Cab

The last section is In-Cab Inspection and Brake Tests. For the In-Cab Inspection you 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 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 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.

Air Pressure Gauges

The air pressure gauges build to governor cut out.

Emergency Equipment

Truck has a fire extinguisher, three red reflective triangles, and spare electrical fuses.

Heater and Defroster

Demonstrate both the heater and defroster are working properly.

Horns (Air Horn and City Horn)

Blow both horns to make sure they are working.

Lighting Indicators

Check the left turn, right turn, four way flashers and high beams; also point these out on the dashboard.

With the transmission in neutral, 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 is not ripped or frayed and adjusts and latches properly.

Oil Pressure Gauge

The engine oil pressure gauge should rise to normal operating range.

Parking Brake

• Trailer Parking Brakes – Set the trailer brake, release the tractor brake, and tug lightly on the trailer.
• Tractor Parking Brakes – Set the tractor brake, release the trailer brake, and tug lightly on the trailer.

Service Brake Check

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 is charging between 13 and 14 volts.

Water Temperature Gauge

The water temperature gauge rises to normal operating range.

Windshield and Mirrors

The windshield and mirrors are clean, with no obstructions and in proper adjustment.

Windshield Wipers and Washers

Demonstrate the wipers and washers are working properly by spraying the windshield.

This is a really nice complete list, very useful.

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How to Pass the CDL Class-A Test

If you’re considering taking the CDL- A test to become a truck driver it may seem a little intimidating. But if you study the right materials in an organized way and choose a good school, passing with a high grade is not only possible, it’s likely. Here is a list of tips to put you on the road to passing your CDL A test.

Study the CDL Manual

Reading and comprehending the CDL manual is the first step to passing your CDL-A test. The manual covers subjects including:

• Driving Safety
• Transporting Cargo
• Combination Vehicles
• Doubles & Triples

Read a general online version of the CDL manual at CDL Career Now and find your State CDL manual on our website. After you’ve read the manuals you’ll probably find it helpful to take these CDL practice tests .

Study the Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Most states require the student to pass a pre-trip inspection test. The pre-trip inspection test covers material including:

• Engine Compartment
• Driver Door Fuel Area
• Coupling Area
• Light Check
• In-Cab Inspection and Brake Tests

We have a very popular CDL pre-trip inspection checklist right on this website. It includes information on all the parts you need to know and what to check for. You’ll also find printable checklists and a great video on the engine compartment inspection. We also created a pre-trip inspection practice test so you can check your understanding of some of the material before ever taking the test.

Watch Videos

By searching YouTube you’ll find many helpful videos covering a variety of topics from offset backing maneuvers to understanding air brakes. There are also quite a few very good ones on the pre-trip inspection. We recommend watching multiple videos on each topic so you get a more well rounded understanding of each. It’s really easy to find the videos, simply search for “cdl training” in the YouTube search bar.

Here’s a good CDL Program Overview video from one of our partner schools, TMC Transportation .

Choose A Good School

We work with many of the most respected truck driving schools in the U.S. When choosing a school it’s good to consider things like how experienced the instructors are, how long the training takes, and whether or not they offer job placement to students after they complete the program. Many of the top schools can place you in an entry level trucking job upon graduation.

Find a CDL training school near you .

This may seem like a lot to take in, but once you start studying and get a little yard-driving experience during training, we think you’ll find that passing your test will be a lot less difficult than you think. Plus, it’s worth it! Truck driving is a career that pays well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2023 truck drivers earned an average of $55,990 , with the top 10 percent making $77,780 or more . The BLS also states that employment is expected to steadily increase 4 percent by 2032, which is about as fast as the national average.

Reference & More Study Materials:

• CDL Test Study Guide
• CDL Practice Tests
• What To Expect From Your CDL Classes
• Heavy & Tractor Trailer Truck Drivers on BLS

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Serving your CDL Learner Permit requirement needs

• CDL Permit Training Program | CDL Pre-Trip Inspection
• CDL Pre-Trip Inspection

You must obtain and maintain your CDL in your state of residence. This is normally the state where your regular driver\'s license was issued. If you plan on moving soon, you may want to choose your new state of residence.

CDL Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Walk-Around Skills Test

First of three cdl skills tests - the cdl vehicle pre trip inspection skills test must be passed prior to being allowed to continue..

You must obtain and maintain your CDL in your state of residence. This is normally the state where your regular driver's license was issued. If you plan on moving soon, you may want to choose your new state of residence.

There are THREE parts to the CDL Skills Test

• First Part: CDL PreTrip Inspection on THIS page . . .
• Second Part: CDL Basic Vehicle Control
• Third Part: CDL Road Test

CDL Pre Trip Inspection Diagram

Vehicle Pre-Trip Checklist Inspection CDL Skills Tests:

Quick study guide to cdl pre-trip inspection.

• Engine Compartment
• Cab Check and Engine Start
• Brake Check
• External Cab

1. CDL Engine Compartment Pre-Trip Inspection

• Look for puddles on the ground that would indicate a leak.
• Look for dripping fluids on the underside of the engine and transmission.
• Inspect hoses for �good� condition and leaks.
• Indicate the location of dipstick.
• Make sure the oil level is within safe operating range and above the refill mark.
• a) Checking the reservoir sight glass, or
• b) Removing the radiator cap if the engine is not hot and visually checking the coolant level.
• Indicate the location of the power steering fluid dipstick.
• Confirm that there is an adequate power steering fluid level that is above the refill mark.
• power steering belt
• water pump belt
• alternator belt
• air compressor belt

2. CDL Cab Check and Engine Start - Pre-Trip Inspection

• Manual Transmissions:
• Depress the clutch.
• Place the gearshift lever in neutral.
• Start the engine and then slowly release the clutch.
• Automatic Transmissions:
• Confirm the vehicle is in �park� and start the engine.
• Confirm that the oil pressure gauge is functioning.
• Make sure that the pressure gauge shows increasing or normal oil pressure, otherwise that the warning light goes off.
• If equipped with an oil temperature gauge, it should begin to gradually rise to a normal operating range.
• Confirm that the temperature gauge is working.
• The temperature gauge should begin to climb to the normal operating range.
• The gauges should show the alternator and/or generator charging; otherwise the warning light should be set off.
• Check for proper operation and acceptable readings on the air and vacuum gauges.
• The speedometer should not be obscured or obviously broken.
• Mirrors should be clean and adjusted properly from the inside.
• Windshield should be clean with no illegal stickers, obstructions, or damage to the glass.
• Three red reflective triangles.
• One properly charged and rated fire extinguisher.
• Spare electrical fuses.
• Power steering equipped vehicles: With the engine running, play should not exceed 10 degrees (or about two inches on a 20-inch wheel) before the front left wheel barely moves when you turn the steering wheel back and forth.
• Non-power steering vehicles: Play should not exceed 10 degrees (or about two inches on a 20-inch wheel) when you turn the steering wheel back and forth.
• Check that the wiper arms and blades are not damaged and operate smoothly.
• Windshield washers must operate correctly if the vehicle is equipped.
• Left turn signal
• Right turn signal
• 4-way emergency flashers
• High beam headlight
• Check that air horn and/or electric horn are operational.
• Test that the heater and defroster works.
• Check that the safety belt is securely mounted, adjusts, and latches properly.
• Clearance lights (red on rear, amber elsewhere)
• Headlights (high and low beams)
• Turn signals
• 4-way flashers
• Brake lights
• Red reflectors (on rear) and amber reflectors (elsewhere)

3. CDL Brake Check Pre-Trip Inspection

• Apply parking brake only and shift into a lower gear. Gently pull against the brake by releasing the clutch, and it should hold the vehicle.
• With the engine running, apply the foot brake and hold for five seconds. The pedal should not move (lose pressure) during those five seconds.
• If equipped with a hydraulic brake reserve system, with the key in the off position, depress the brake pedal and listen for the sound of the reserve system electric motor turning on.
• Check that the warning buzzer and light is off.
• Check the proper operation of the foot brake by moving the vehicle forward slowly at about 5 mph and applying the brake firmly.
• With a fully-charged air system, typically at 120 psi, turn the engine off, chock the wheels, release (push in) the parking brake button and trailer air supply button (for combination vehicles) and time the air pressure drop. After the initial drop, the rate of pressure loss should not be more than 2 psi per minute for single vehicles and no more than 3 psi per minute for combination vehicles
• Release (push in) the parking brake and trailer air supply button (for combination vehicles), and apply pressure to the foot brake. After the initial drop in pressure, the rate of pressure loss should be no more than 3 psi per minute for single vehicles and no more than 4 psi per minute for combination vehicles.
• Turn the key to the on position. Rapidly depress and release the foot brake to reduce air tank pressure. The low air pressure warning signal must come on before the pressure drops below 60 psi.
• Continue to rapidly apply and release the service brake pedal further reducing air pressure. The trailer air supply button (for combination vehicles) and parking brake button should pop out when the pressure falls to usually between 20 to 40 psi. This should activate the spring brakes.
• While the engine is operating at 1800 RPM, the pressure should rise from 85 to 100 psi within 45 seconds in dual air systems.
• With normal air pressure, release the parking brake and trailer air supply button (for combination vehicles), move the vehicle forward slowly at about 5 mph and apply the brakes firmly using the brake pedal. Test for any pulling to any one side or delayed stopping action.

4. CDL External Cab | Truck | Bus Pre-Trip Inspection

• Check that the steering box is mounted securely and is not leaking.
• Check for damage to power steering hoses and power steering fluid leaks.
• Check that connecting links, arms, and rods from the steering box to the wheels are not worn and cracked.
• Check that the joints and sockets are not loose or worn and that there are no missing nuts, bolts, or cotter keys.
• Check for shifted, cracked, broken, or even missing leaf springs.
• Check for broken and distorted coil springs.
• If equipped, check the air ride suspension for damage and leaks.
• Look for cracked or broken spring hangers, missing or damaged bushings, and broken, loose, or missing bolts, U-bolts or other axle mounting parts.
• Confirm that the shock absorbers are secure and that there are no leaks.
• Look for missing, loose or broken parts.
• The angle between the adjuster arm and push rod should be not less than 90 degrees when the brakes are applied and when the brakes are released a little over 90 degrees.
• When pulled by hand, the brake rod should not move more than one inch with the brakes released.
• Check that brake chambers are not dented, cracked, or leaking and that they are mounted securely.
• Check for worn, cracked or leaking hoses, lines, and couplings.
• Check for dents, cracks or holes, and loose or missing bolts.
• Brake linings and pads should not be worn thin.
• Where visible, check that a reasonable amount of brake lining is showing.
• Check for damaged or bent rims. Rims cannot have welding repairs.
• Tread depth: need a minimum tread depth of 4/32 on steering axle tires, 2/32 on all other tires.
• Tire condition: Check that tread is evenly worn and without cuts or damage to tread or sidewalls. Valve caps and stems should not be missing, broken, or damaged.
• Tire inflation: Check for proper inflation with a tire gauge or by striking tires with a mallet.
• Check that hub oil/grease seals and axle seals are not leaking.
• Check for any missing lug nuts, cracks, distortions, and for signs of looseness such as rust trails or shiny threads.
• Check for cracked or distorted bolt holes.
• Spacers should not be bent, damaged, or rusted through.
• Spacers should be centered evenly.
• Check doors for any damage and that they open and close properly.
• Hinges should be secure with seals intact.
• Mirrors and mirror brackets should be mounted securely.
• Check for secure tanks, tight caps, and that the tanks or lines don�t leak.
• Check to see that batteries are secure, for tight cable connections, and that cell caps are present.
• Check for signs of excessive corrosion.
• Battery box and cover/door must be secure.
• The drive shaft should not be bent or cracked.
• Couplings should be secure.
• Check system for rust or carbon soot as they are signs of damage or leaks.
• System should be secure and connected tightly.
• Check the longitudinal frame members, cross members, box, and floor for cracks, broken welds, holes or other damage.
• If equipped with mud flaps or splash guards, check that they are mounted securely and not damaged.
• Doors and hinges must open, close, and latch properly from the outside, and should not be damaged.
• Check that any ties, straps, chains, and binders are secure.
• If equipped with a cargo lift, it must be fully retracted and latched securely, and should not be leaking, damaged or missing any parts.
• Check that electrical lines and air hoses are not cut, chafed, spliced, or worn, the steel braid should not show through its outer lining.
• Make sure the lines and hoses are not tangled or dragging against tractor parts.
• Make sure the catwalk is securely bolted to tractor frame.
• Check for loose or missing mounting brackets, clamps, bolts, or nuts. The fifth wheel and the slide mounting must be solidly attached.
• Other types of coupling systems should be inspected for missing or broken components.
• Check that the locking jaws fully close around the kingpin
• On other types of coupling systems the locking mechanism should not have missing or broken parts and should lock securely.
• The platform structure supporting the fifth wheel skid plate should be free of cracks or breaks.
• If equipped with a release arm, check that it engaged and that the safety latch is in place.
• The kingpin should not be bent.
• The visible part of the apron should not be bent, cracked, or broken.
• The trailer should be laying flat on the fifth wheel skid plate without any gap.
• Locking pins should be fully engaged.
• The fifth wheel should be positioned so the tractor frame will not strike the landing gear or the tractor.

5. CDL Trailer Pre-Trip Inspection

• The trailer air connectors should be sealed and in good condition.
• Glad hands should be locked in place and free of damage or air leaks.
• The trailer electrical plug should be firmly seated and locked in place.
• If equipped with a header board, check to see that it is secure, damage-free and strong enough to contain cargo.
• If equipped with a canvas or tarp carrier, it should be mounted and fastened securely.
• Check the front area of enclosed trailers for cracks, bulges or holes.
• The landing gear must be fully raised. Check that it has no missing parts with a non-damaged support frame and that the crank handle is secure.
• Check for air or hydraulic leaks if power operated.
• Check that doors are not damaged and that they open, close, and latch properly from the outside.
• Ties, straps, chains, and binders should be secure.
• Any cargo lifts should be checked for leaking, damaged or missing parts, and should be fully retracted and latched securely.
• The frame, cross members, box, and floor should be checked for holes, cracks, broken welds or other damage.
• If equipped, make sure that the release arm is secured and that the locking pins are locked in place.
• Suspension System
• Doors, Ties and Lift
• Splash Guards

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Free IL CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Exam

• Perfect for first-time and renewal CDL/CLP applicants, and those adding endorsements
• Based on 2024 IL commercial driver's license manual
• Triple-checked for accuracy
• Updated for May 2024

About this test

This CDL practice test is a great place to start if you’re after the IL Pre-Trip Inspection endorsement. Each of the 20 questions is based on the official 2024 CDL manual . The test is designed to prepare you for the Pre-Trip Inspection portion of your 2024 Commercial Driver’s License exam. There are several answer options, but only one of them is correct. Every time you answer a question, you’ll get immediate feedback with a detailed explanation, so you won’t need to wait until the end of the test to know the correct answers.

Thoroughly prepare for your CDL Pre-Trip Inspection with our detailed guide, offering step-by-step procedures and essential tips at our Pre-Trip Inspection section .

What to expect on the actual IL CDL exam

correct answers to pass

passing score

Helpful links

IL DMV website

Official Illinois CDL manual (2024)

More IL CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Resources

• IL CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Test
• IL CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Test 2
• IL CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Test 3
• IL CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Test 4
• IL CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Marathon
• IL CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Exam Simulator

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FREE Illinois CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test 2024 | IL

The pre-trip inspection exam is an important step on your journey towards becoming a licensed driver.  If you are studying for the CDL pre-trip inspection exam, then you will need to be able to demonstrate you understand the process for inspecting your vehicle.  Do you know what areas of your vehicle’s engine compartment you should check?  How about your braking, coupling, and lighting systems?   If you need to brush up on these concepts,  you should take this practice test! The Free Illinois CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test has been designed to simulate the type of questions you can expect from an examiner during the pre-trip inspection portion of your driver’s test.

To ensure the practice test is both relevant and accurate as possible, we based on our questions on the information found in the official Illinois CDL Handbook . Every multiple choice question on this test includes valuable feedback.  Start preparing for your Free Illinois CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test!

Illinois CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Overview:

Get the latest (2024) official IL CDL Manual.

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