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CDL skills test

CDL pre-trip inspection checklist

The pre-trip inspection is the first part of the CDL skills test, and missing items is one of the most common ways to fail it. Learn what to check on each of the 76 components across 13 areas of a tractor-trailer, then drill yourself until you can say it all without looking. Your examiner and your state manual decide the exact format.

1 of 76 · Cab check / engine start

Parking brake check

Say out loud what you would check, as you would to the examiner. Then reveal.

Tips for test day

  • Point to or touch each part and say out loud what you are checking and what a good condition looks like.
  • Check both sides: many examiners only accept items you name on the side they are watching.
  • Do the air brake check in order; failing a required step usually fails the whole inspection.

Practise the knowledge tests too: CDL Class A practice test.

Checklist from the California Commercial Driver Handbook (DL 650), California DMV, 2023 edition (AAMVA model), Section 11: Vehicle Inspection Test (11.1-11.3, 11.5); air brake check from Section 5.3.3 (Step 7: Final Air Brake Check), built on the AAMVA model CDL manual. Numbers that differ by state are noted. VoltExam is not affiliated with any state licensing agency.