Free CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test (2026)

50 questions · 60 min · 80% to pass

50 Questions · 60 Minutes · 80% to Pass

Question 1 of 5

Sample Questions

Question 1

During the walkaround inspection, what must a driver check on each tire?

Answer: The driver must check for proper inflation, cuts or bulges in the sidewall, tread depth, and that no lug nuts are missing or loose.

Question 2

During a pre-trip inspection, a driver finds one foundation brake with a lining thickness just below the federal minimum under FMCSA Part 393. What is the required action?

Answer: Place the vehicle out of service. Brake linings below minimum thickness are an out-of-service condition — the vehicle cannot be operated until the brake is repaired and brought into compliance with federal standards.

Question 3

A CDL driver finishes a run at 11 PM, sleeps in the sleeper berth, and departs in the same vehicle at 6 AM. Is a new pre-trip inspection required before the second run?

Answer: Yes. A pre-trip inspection is required before every trip. Remaining with the vehicle overnight does not satisfy the inspection requirement — the driver must verify vehicle condition before each new departure regardless of prior inspections.

Question 4

What are the seven basic steps of the CDL pre-trip inspection in the correct order?

Answer: Approach and overview, engine compartment, cab/cockpit, lights, walkaround, signal lights, and final check inside the cab.

Question 5

During a pre-trip, a driver notices the passenger mirror has a hairline crack across the lower quarter of the glass. The reflection is visible but partially distorted. What action is required?

Answer: Document the cracked mirror as a defect in the DVIR and assess whether the crack impairs the required field of view. If visibility is compromised, the defect is out-of-service and must be repaired before departure.