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Quizzes > General Knowledge & Mixed

CDL pre trip practice test: Pre-trip inspection quiz

Quick, free pre trip inspection practice test with instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Marc MoneUpdated Aug 25, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
paper art illustration checklist truck quiz icons sky blue background for CDL pre trip inspection challenge

This CDL pre trip practice test helps you learn the inspection order, spot weak areas, and prepare for exam day. You will get instant scores and clear feedback as you check brakes, tires, lights, and more. After this quiz, try the cdl combination vehicles practice test or the CHP school bus practice test to build broader CDL skills.

What is the first step in the exterior portion of the CDL pre-trip inspection?
Inspect the cargo.
Adjust the mirrors.
Check for leaks under the vehicle.
Start the engine and check the gauges.
The pre-trip inspection always begins with an exterior walk-around to look for obvious issues, starting with checking under the vehicle for any fluid leaks. Leaks can indicate problems with the engine, transmission, brakes, or cooling systems and must be identified before driving. Identifying leaks early prevents more serious damage and ensures safety.
What is the minimum legal tread depth for steer tires during a pre-trip inspection?
2/32 inch
6/32 inch
8/32 inch
4/32 inch
The minimum tread depth for steer tires is 4/32 of an inch according to FMCSA regulations to ensure adequate traction and steering control. Under-inflated or worn tires can lead to blowouts or loss of control. During the pre-trip inspection, use a tread depth gauge to measure and confirm compliance.
How many reflective triangles must a commercial vehicle carry for a pre-trip inspection?
3
1
4
2
Regulations require that drivers carry three reflective warning triangles as part of emergency equipment. One triangle is placed 10 feet behind the vehicle, another 100 feet behind, and the third 200 feet behind to alert oncoming traffic of hazards. Checking that all three are present ensures compliance in case of breakdowns.
When inspecting the mirrors before driving, you should ensure they are:
Dirty and cracked
Missing hardware
Removed
Securely mounted and adjusted
Mirrors must be securely mounted without cracks or damage and properly adjusted to give the driver a clear view of surrounding traffic. Loose or misaligned mirrors reduce visibility and increase the risk of collisions. Always check mounting brackets and glass condition during the exterior inspection.
During a pre-trip inspection, which equipment must be in good condition and present for emergencies?
Seatbelt cover
Air compressor
Fire extinguisher
Spare headlight bulb
Drivers are required to have a serviceable fire extinguisher on board for emergency situations, ensuring it's properly charged and accessible. While spare bulbs and other items can be helpful, they are not mandated equipment like fire extinguishers. Checking this ensures compliance with safety regulations.
What should you check the oil level against during the pre-trip inspection?
Dipstick
Sight glass
Oil filter
Fuel gauge
The engine oil dipstick provides an accurate reading of the oil level, which should be between the 'add' and 'full' marks. Maintaining proper oil level is critical for lubrication and preventing engine damage. Always wipe, reinsert, and recheck the dipstick during pre-trip inspections.
License plate lights should be visible from at least what distance?
100 feet
50 feet
200 feet
25 feet
Regulations require the license plate lamp to illuminate the plate so it's readable from at least 50 feet to the rear of the vehicle. Proper illumination ensures law enforcement and other drivers can see the plate at night. During pre-trip, verify the light and lens are secure and functioning.
Which of these is not part of the walk-around inspection?
Testing the horn
Verifying insurance coverage
Checking tire tread depth
Inspecting lights
The walk-around inspection focuses on mechanical and safety components such as tires, lights, and horn. While carrying proper insurance is required, verifying coverage is not part of the physical pre-trip walk-around inspection. This question tests the driver's understanding of inspection scope.
What item should be checked for cracks, chips, or foreign objects during the exterior inspection?
Tachometer
Seat belt
Windshield
Steering wheel
The windshield must be free of damage like cracks or chips that could impair the driver's view or worsen under vibration. Objects stuck to the glass can also obstruct vision. Inspect the entire windshield area carefully for any safety hazards.
When inspecting the steering system, free play at the rim should not exceed:
1 inch
5 degrees
10 degrees
2 inches
Regulations state that the total free play in the steering system should not exceed 10 degrees at the steering wheel rim, which is roughly 2 inches of movement on a 20-inch wheel. Excessive play can indicate worn steering components that compromise vehicle control. During the pre-trip, inspect all linkage for looseness and damage.
What is the maximum pushrod travel for a properly adjusted S-cam brake at full release?
2 inches
3 inches
4 inches
1 inch
Properly adjusted S-cam brakes will have no more than one inch of pushrod travel when the brakes are fully released. Excessive pushrod travel signals an out-of-adjustment braking system which can reduce braking efficiency. Regularly check pushrod stroke with brakes released during inspections.
At what pressure range should the air compressor governor cut out?
80-90 psi
100-110 psi
120-140 psi
150-170 psi
The air compressor governor cuts out (stops building air) when system pressure reaches the manufacturer-specified range, typically around 120-140 psi. This prevents over-pressurization of the system. Knowing these values helps you interpret air gauge readings during engine start-up.
How much movement is acceptable when testing automatic slack adjusters?
No movement
2 inches
1 inch
3 inches
The automatic slack adjuster should have no more than one inch of free play when testing by applying and releasing the brakes. More free play indicates the brakes are out of adjustment and need service. Proper adjustment maintains effective braking and reduces wear.
What is a sign of a worn kingpin during the fifth wheel inspection?
Excessive play
Grease buildup
Properly greased surfaces
Missing locking jaws
A worn kingpin will exhibit excessive lateral or vertical play when the tractor and trailer are separated. This indicates excessive wear in the fifth wheel or kingpin assembly which can lead to coupling failures. Always test for play as part of the coupling inspection.
When inspecting leaf springs, you should look for:
Correct tension
Electrical connections
Proper inflation
Missing or cracked leaves
Leaf springs must be inspected for missing, shifted, or cracked leaves because damaged springs compromise suspension support and vehicle stability. Any defects require immediate repair. Checking suspension components protects against axle misalignment and loss of control.
ABS malfunction indicator lamp should light up when the engine is started and then go out if the system is operational.
False
True
The ABS malfunction indicator lamp must illuminate when the engine starts as a bulb check and then turn off if the system is functioning correctly. If it remains lit, there is a fault in the ABS system. Checking this indicator is a critical step for braking safety.
How often should air tanks be drained to remove moisture during a pre-trip inspection?
Weekly
Monthly
Annually
Daily
Air tanks should be manually drained daily to remove built-up water and oil from the air system. Moisture can freeze in cold weather and cause brake failure if not regularly expelled. Some systems have automatic drains, but manual checks are required during pre-trip.
During the fifth wheel inspection, the mounting bolts should be checked for:
Correct hardness
Missing welds
Matching color
Proper torque
Fifth wheel mounting bolts must be properly torqued to the manufacturer's specifications to ensure the fifth wheel is securely attached. Loose or over-tightened bolts can lead to structural failure. Always verify torque and inspect for signs of stress or damage.
What is the minimum brake lining thickness at which the brakes must be replaced?
1/4 inch
1/8 inch
3/8 inch
1/2 inch
Brake linings thinner than 1/4 inch must be replaced to maintain stopping power and prevent brake fade. Excessively worn linings reduce friction and can lead to brake failure. Measure linings during inspections in multiple places for accuracy.
How long should a single vehicle take to build air from 85 to 100 psi during the air buildup test?
90 seconds
45 seconds
60 seconds
30 seconds
The air brake system build-up time from 85 to 100 psi should not exceed 45 seconds for a single vehicle, ensuring adequate air reserve for safe braking. Longer times may indicate system leaks or compressor issues. Testing build-up time is critical to confirm system integrity.
What sound indicates a hydraulic brake fluid leak during inspection?
Ticking
Hissing
Humming
Knocking
A hissing sound near hydraulic lines or brake components typically signals a fluid leak or air escaping under pressure. Hydraulic systems should be silent, so any hiss warrants immediate attention. Identifying leaks early prevents brake failure.
When inspecting trailer coupling, what should be inspected in the apron area?
Matching color
Cracks or damage
Lube
Weight rating
Inspect the coupling apron for cracks or damage where the kingpin engages, as defects can lead to coupling separation. A clean, lubricated apron is essential, but the primary safety check is structural integrity. Document any damage and repair as needed.
Which component uses air pressure to apply the brakes in an air brake system?
Slack adjuster
Brake shoe
Brake chamber
S-cam
The brake chamber converts compressed air pressure into mechanical force, moving the pushrod that applies the brakes through the slack adjuster and S-cam. Without functional brake chambers, the system cannot generate braking force. Checking chamber condition is essential during inspections. Brake Chamber Function
What is the correct procedure to test the low-pressure warning signal in an air-braked vehicle?
Apply full braking at highway speed
Open the service valve while the engine is running
Open the emergency valve until the alarm sounds
Shut off the engine, pump the brake pedal and listen for the warning signal around 55 psi
To check the low-pressure warning, shut off the engine and fan the brakes by repeatedly pressing the brake pedal to lower tank pressure; the audible and/or visual warning must activate at approximately 55 psi. This ensures the warning system functions before driving. Failure to sound indicates a defect.
When inspecting shock absorbers, you should look for:
Leaks
Electrical wiring
Tire inflation
Excessive wear
Shock absorbers should be checked for oil leaks, secure mounting, and damage. Leaking shocks cannot dampen suspension movement effectively, leading to poor handling and tire wear. Inspect both ends for seals and attachments during inspection.
During the applied leakage test on a combination vehicle, what is the maximum allowable air loss in one minute?
4 psi
6 psi
2 psi
3 psi
An applied leakage test holds the brakes applied with system pressure at least 90 psi, and a combination vehicle must not lose more than 3 psi in one minute. Exceeding this indicates leaks in brake lines or chambers. Ensuring minimal leakage maintains safe brake application.
At what pressure does the air compressor governor cut in to build up the air pressure?
100-120 psi
120-140 psi
80-100 psi
140-160 psi
The governor cut-in pressure is typically between 100 and 120 psi, at which point the compressor restarts to maintain system pressure. Knowing this helps diagnose air pressure problems and ensure proper operation. Always consult manufacturer specs for exact values.
What does a continuously illuminated amber ABS malfunction indicator lamp indicate after engine start?
There is a fault in the ABS system
Engine malfunction
ABS is functioning properly
Parking brake is engaged
If the ABS malfunction lamp stays illuminated after the initial bulb check at engine start, it indicates a fault in the anti-lock braking system. This warning must be addressed, as ABS is critical for maintaining control under heavy braking. A persistent lamp signals sensor or control unit issues.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand CDL Pre-Trip Standards -

    Outline the official requirements and checkpoints defined for the pre trip inspection practice test.

  2. Identify Critical Components -

    Recognize essential vehicle parts such as brakes, lights, tires, and steering during a structured pre-trip inspection process.

  3. Apply Inspection Procedures -

    Use step-by-step pre trip inspection protocols to assess safety systems and mechanical integrity effectively.

  4. Evaluate Safety Hazards -

    Analyze inspection results to detect defects and potential road safety hazards before hitting the road.

  5. Interpret Quiz Feedback -

    Understand scoring insights to pinpoint strengths and target areas for improvement in your pre trip inspection practice.

  6. Enhance Exam Readiness -

    Boost confidence and performance by simulating the actual CDL pre trip inspection test environment with timed quizzes.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Vehicle System Walk-Around -

    Before starting the engine, follow FMCSA guidelines (49 CFR §396.11) to inspect hoses, belts, and fluid levels for leaks or wear. Use the "LACE-Up" mnemonic - Lights, Air lines, Coolant, Electrical - to ensure you cover all critical components. Regular walk-arounds build confidence for the cdl pre trip inspection practice test.

  2. Brake System Inspection -

    Perform a three-part air brake check: static, applied, and rate-of-leak tests as outlined by FMCSA. For example, a properly sealed system should not leak more than 2 psi per minute with brakes applied. Remember the leak formula - Max Leak = 2 psi/min - to ace your cdl pre trip inspection test.

  3. Steering & Suspension Check -

    Inspect tie rods, drag links, and ball joints for cracks or looseness following DOT manual standards. Use the "TAP" technique - Tap for play, Align tie-rod ends, Pivot joints - to quickly detect steering issues. Proper suspension checks help you master the cdl pre trip test and prevent hazards on the road.

  4. Tires & Wheels Assessment -

    Check tire pressure with a gauge and ensure front tires have at least 4/32″ tread, rear tires 2/32″ tread per NHTSA guidelines. Use the quarter test - insert a quarter head-first; if you see all of Washington's head, it's time for new tires. This attention to detail is crucial for any pre trip inspection practice test.

  5. Lighting & Reflector Verification -

    Verify headlights, taillights, turn signals, and reflectors function correctly by conducting a walk-around test with a partner. Recall the "SMART" mnemonic - Signal, Marker, Auxiliary, Reflector, Tail - to ensure full coverage. Consistent lighting checks will boost your score on the cdl pre trip inspection test and keep you safe on the road.

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