The Class A pre-trip inspection is an essential element of getting your CDL. It is a required safety check that ensures your commercial vehicle is in proper working condition before driving. During your CDL skills test, you must verbally explain and physically point out the parts you are inspecting while demonstrating that you know what safe operation looks like.
Examiners are not only checking what you inspect, but how clearly and confidently you explain it. Missing components, using vague language, or skipping required steps can result in an automatic failure — even if the truck is mechanically sound.
This guide walks you through exactly what to inspect, what to say, and how to avoid common mistakes so you can walk into your CDL test prepared. handy study guide will give you a head start on training. Follow our tips to make sure you ace your CDL exam with flying colors!
This Pre-Trip Inspection Study Guide includes:
- What is a Pre-Trip Inspection?
- What to expect at the Pre-Trip Inspection Test?
- Tips on How to Pass the Pre-Trip Inspection Test
- Step-by-Step CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
- Common CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Mistakes
What is a Pre-Trip Inspection?
A pre-trip inspection is a comprehensive checkup of your truck to ensure that everything is in working order before you get on the road. Utilizing a pre-trip inspection checklist helps ensure the safety of your vehicle and resolve any concerns or possible issues before you hit the road.A standard Class A CDL pre-trip inspection involves checking fluid levels, leaks, tires, fifth wheel, brakes, clutch, shock absorbers, and other components. After you’ve checked your truck, document your findings on a DVIR (Driver Vehicle Inspection Report). Any issues found must be addressed before departing. A thorough vehicle pre-trip is required by law and takes approximately 15 minutes.
The Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Test
You need to complete a pre-trip inspection test to pass your CDL exam. The pre-trip is often viewed as one of the most challenging aspects of getting a CDL. However, like anything, practice makes perfect. While there isn’t generally a set time allowed to complete the pre-trip inspection test, according to Joe Smith, Director of Education for Driver Resource Center, it takes approximately 20-30 minutes. During the exam, you should identify each part and tell the examiner what you are looking for or inspecting. Below is an outline of each section of the pre-trip. Within each area, there are multiple parts you must identify. Once in school, you will receive a detailed pre-trip inspection checklist. You’ll have adequate time during training to get familiar with the process. Below is an outline of the different parts of a pre-trip.
Before You Begin: How the CDL Pre-Trip Test Works
Before starting the inspection, it’s important to understand how the test is graded.
You must name, point to, and explain each component
You are graded on accuracy and completeness
Some states allow partial credit, but major omissions can fail you
You may inspect in a specific order (state-dependent)
Pro tip: Use the checklist provided and do the pre-trip inspection the same way every time, this keeps you from missing components.
Tips on How to Pass the Pre-Trip Inspection Test
Now that you know what a pre-trip inspection is, it’s time to start practicing. Below are several tips to help you remember.
Four-Step Process
Apply this four-step process for each part inspected.
1. Name the Part
2. Securement
3. Condition
4. Special/specific items for that part (If applicable)
Example
1. Alternator
2. Securely mounted, no missing hardware
3. Not bent, broken, or damaged
4. No exposed wires, belt-driven
Pre-Trip Inspection Phrasing
During a CDL Pre-Trip Inspection test, it is not only what you say but how you say it. Use precise language to identify each part. We’ve outlined the phrasing we recommend and teach to our students.
Metal Items:
- Securely mounted
- Not missing any hardware
- Not cracked, bent, or broken
- No illegal welds or drill holes
- Properly greased, no foreign debris
- No signs of leaks
Glass and Lights:
- Securely mounted
- Not missing any hardware
- Not cracked or broken
- Clean and clear of dirt of illegal stickers
- Proper color (Lights)
Hoses/Air Lines:
- Securely mounted on both ends
- No abrasions, budges, or cuts
- No missing hardware
- No signs or leads
Wires:
- Securely mounted on both ends
- No missing hardware
- Not cut, worn, torn, or frayed, and no exposed wires
- No corrosion
Belts/Rubber:
- Securely mounted
- Not cut, cracked, worn, frayed, or dry rotten
- (Belts) not more than ¾ inch of play when pushed
Use Acronyms
Acronyms use the first letter of a group of words to form a different word that is easy to remember. This technique is useful when remembering words or items in a specific order. One helpful acronym our students use to remember parts of the in-cab inspection is Honestly We Safely Get Licensed Professional Men Women Hired Every day.
Honestly= Horns
We= Windshield/Windshield Wipers
Safely= Steering Play
Get= Gauges
Licensed= Lights
Professional= Pedals
Men= Mirrors
Women= Windows
Hired= Heater/Defroster
Everyday= Emergency Equipment
Practice Makes Perfect
There are several apps and videos available to help you practice a pre-trip. However, nothing beats walking around a truck and trailer. You will have plenty of time to practice with equipment during training. The comprehensive checklist provided during CDL training will be your guide. Many students find it helpful to video themselves doing a pre-trip to watch it and identify areas for improvement.
Utilize these tips and plenty of practice to master the pre-trip. Our experienced instructors will be there to help you every step of the way.
Step-by-Step CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
Step 1: Vehicle Overview & Safety Checks
Begin by confirming:
The vehicle is parked on level ground
Parking brakes are set
Wheels are chocked (if required)
Say clearly:
“I am checking that the vehicle is safely parked, secured, and ready for inspection.”
Step 2: Engine Compartment Inspection
With the hood open, inspect:
Fluids
Oil level
Coolant level
Power steering fluid
Windshield washer fluid
Say:
“Fluid levels are at safe operating ranges with no leaks.”
Belts & Hoses
No cracks, frays, or looseness
Proper tension (not more than ¾ inch play)
Steering Components
Steering shaft
Gear box
Hoses and connections
Say:
“Steering components are securely mounted with no leaks or missing hardware.”
Step 3: Front Axle, Suspension & Steering
Inspect:
Shock absorbers
Leaf springs or air suspension
U-bolts
Torque arms
Say:
“Suspension components are securely mounted and not cracked, bent, or leaking, or missing”
Check steering linkage:
Tie rod
Drag link
Pitman arm
Say:
“Steering linkage is secure with no excessive play.” No more than 2” on a 20” wheel.
Step 4: Brake System Inspection
Inspect:
Brake chambers
Slack adjusters
Brake hoses
Drums or rotors
Say:
“Brake components are secure, not leaking, and properly adjusted.”
Slack adjusters should not move more than one inch when pulled by hand (if checking manually is allowed).
Step 5: Tires, Wheels & Rims
Inspect:
Tire tread depth (4/32” steer, 2/32” drive and trailer)
Proper inflation
No cuts, bulges, or exposed cords
Say:
“Tires are properly inflated with adequate tread depth and no visible damage.” Must be checked with tire gauge.
Check wheels:
Rims not cracked or bent and no illegal welds or repairs.
Lug nuts present and tight
No rust trails or shiny threads
Step 6: Lights, Reflectors & Mirrors
Inspect:
Headlights (high and low beam)
Turn signals
Hazard lights
Clearance lights
Reflectors
Say:
“All lights are clean, operational, and properly mounted, and correct color.)
Check mirrors:
Properly adjusted
Not cracked
Securely mounted
Step 7: Fuel Tank, Exhaust & Frame
Inspect:
Fuel tank straps
Cap secure
No leaks
Exhaust:
Securely mounted
No visible leaks, you will be able to see black soot build up at leak.
Not contacting fuel or electrical lines
Frame:
No cracks or unauthorized holes
Step 8: Coupling System (If Applicable)
Inspect:
Fifth wheel properly greased
Locking jaws fully engaged
Kingpin seated
No visible gap between fifth wheel and trailer plate.
Say:
“The coupling system is secure with the fifth wheel properly locked around the kingpin and no gap.”
Check:
Air and electrical lines properly connected
No damage or leaks
Step 9: Trailer Inspection
Inspect:
Trailer frame
Landing gear fully raised and enough room between landing gear and rear of tractor to make turns.
Doors secure
Suspension and brakes
Tires and wheels
Say:
“Trailer components are secure and in safe operating condition.”
Step 10: In-Cab Inspection
Inside the cab, check:
Seat & Seatbelt
Properly adjusted
Secure
Gauges
Oil pressure
Voltmeter
Air pressure
Coolant temperature
Safety Equipment
Fire extinguisher
Spare fuses
Reflective triangles
Say:
“All required safety equipment is present, charged, and properly secured.”
Step 11: Air Brake Test (If Equipped)
Perform:
Applied pressure test
Low-air warning test
Emergency brake pop-out test
Say and do:
“Each step while performing.”
This section is commonly failed — practice it repeatedly.
What to Say During the CDL Pre-Trip Inspection
Avoid vague phrases like “looks good.”
Instead, use complete examiner-approved language, such as:
“Securely mounted”
“No leaks, cracks, or missing hardware”
“Properly inflated”
“Within manufacturer specifications”
Speaking clearly and confidently is just as important as inspecting correctly.
Common CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
- Skipping the air brake test
- Forgetting to mention tread depth
- Not checking all lights
- Using vague language
- Rushing or losing your inspection order
Tip: Practice out loud — record yourself or practice with a classmate.
CDL Pre-Trip Test Day Tips
- Get a good night’s sleep
- Arrive early
- Stay calm and speak slowly
- If you forget something, pause and regroup
- Do not assume the examiner “knows what you mean”
Confidence and clarity matter.
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