Commercial Driver Handbook ( PDF ) - California Department of ...

SectIOn 11: PRe-tRIP teSt
This section will assist drivers taking the pre-trip test
The pre-trip inspection is a knowledge test to see
if the customer understands which features and
equipment on the test vehicle should be inspected
before operating the vehicle. The entire pre-trip
must be conducted in the English language. This is
pursuant to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
regulations §§391.11 (b)(2) and 383.133
(c)(5). You will be warned twice for speaking in
a foreign language during the pre-trip inspection
and will not be given credit for items checked and
explained in a foreign language. If you are told
a third time the test will be counted as a failure.
A pre-trip inspection should be done the same
way each time so you will learn all the steps and
be less likely to forget something during the test.
Before your pre-trip test, the examiner will check
the brake lights, emergency flashers, turn signals,
and horn. If any of these items do not work, the skills
and driving portions of the test will be postponed.
Pre-trips are conducted to ensure that a vehicle is
safe to operate. During the pre-trip test, you will
be expected to explain or show your knowledge
of the pre-trip process.
You must point to every item you would check,
identify it, and explain in detail what you are
checking the item for. You will NOT have to crawl
under the vehicle.
You may use the guides shown on pages 155 or
156 when taking your pre-trip test. You cannot
write any instructions or Notes on how to perform
the pre-trip inspection on the guide. If you do not
pass the pre-trip inspection test, the other tests
will be postponed.
Remember: You are allowed a total of three attempts
to pass the pre-trip, skills, or driving tests.
See page 6.
All VehIcleS
Study the following vehicle parts for the type of
vehicle you will be using during the CDL pre-trip
inspection. You should be able to identify each
part and tell the examiner what you are looking
for or inspecting.
vehiCle overvieW
As you approach the vehicle, notice its general
condition. Look for damage or if the vehicle is
leaning to one side. Look under the vehicle for
fresh oil, coolant, grease, or fuel leaks. Check
area around the vehicle for hazards to vehicle
movement such as people, other vehicles, objects,
low hanging wires, or limbs, etc.
Check that the parking brakes are set and/or wheels
chocked. You may have to raise the hood, tilt the
cab (secure loose objects so they don’t fall and
break something), or open the engine compartment
door. Check the following:
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