CDL VEHICLE INSPECTION TEST MAINE

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To obtain a CDL, you will be required to pass a vehicle inspection test. The vehicle inspection test, formerly known as pre-trip, is a skills test to see if you identify which features and equipment on the test vehicle should be inspected before driving. During the test, you will be asked to do an inspection of your vehicle. You will be expected to show your knowledge of the inspection process and you will be tested to see if you know whether your vehicle is safe to drive. During the CDL inspection test, DMV does not allow the use of testing aids, other than the vehicle inspection guide in the Maine CDL Manual. To prepare for the test, study the following sections of the CDL manual: Driving Safely and the Vehicle Inspection Test. If you do not pass the CDL inspection test, the other skills tests will be postponed.
1. When approaching a vehicle as part of a pre-trip inspection, which of the following could be a sign of trouble?
Inflated tires
Fresh oil under the vehicle
Parking brake is on
2. Pre-trip inspections:
should always be done in the same order.
should not be done unless the vehicle has problems that could cause a breakdown.
should not be done when a vehicle inspection report is available.
3. When performing the stop/start maneuver during the skills test, once stopped you should do all of the following, except:
Cancel your turn signal.
Activate your right turn signal.
Activate your 4-way emergency flashers.
4. Vehicle inspections:
should not be done by the shipper.
are important because vehicle defects found during an inspection could save you problems later.
should only be done when a vehicle defect is found.
5. Name some things you should check on the FRONT of your vehicle during your pre-trip inspection.
U-Bolts, anchor plate and bellows
Oil, transmission, air compressor, and radiator
Low beams, high beams, four-way flashers, and turn signals
6. During the driving test, when asked to make a lane change you should:
make the change immediately without looking.
make the necessary traffic checks first and use proper signals before changing lanes.
make the lane change before using proper signals.
7. When checking the condition of wheels and rims during the pre-trip inspection, make sure that:
no more than two lug nuts are missing.
the end of the kingpin is even with the top of the fifth wheel.
no studs, spacers, clamps, or lugs are missing, bent, or broken.
8. Name some key suspension system parts.
Pitman arm, hydraulic fluid reservoir and tie rod
Drag link, spindle and gear box
Main spring, axle and font axle hanger
9. Suspension system defects include:
steering wheel play of more than 10 degrees.
cracked or broken spring hangers.
rust around wheel nuts.
10. Exhaust system parts should NOT:
rub against fuel system parts.
rub against tires.
All of the above.
 
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Frequently Asked Questions

You can get a learner's permit at 15 years old. To obtain a class C driver's license, you must be at least 16 and have completed a driver education course. Alternatively, you can apply at the age of 18 without participating in a driver education program.

Complete the application form and submit it either in person to any Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles branch or by mail. After processing your application, the BMV will schedule your written test at the office closest to your mailing address and notify you. If you have specific scheduling preferences, be sure to note them on your application. However, you can change the test time up to 48 hours prior.
On the day of your appointment, bring the following documents:
  • A completed application form
  • Two forms of identification.
  • Proof of residency. If you are a minor or unable to provide a document certifying your address, you must submit an affidavit.
  • Proof of legal presence in the United States for both citizens and non-citizens.
  • Driver education completion certificate (if you are under 18).
  • A birth certificate (if you are under the age of 23).


The DMV written test in Maine is available in multiple languages, and you can also have a translator. Additionally, for applicants who are deaf or hearing impaired, an American Sign Language interpreter can assist during the exam.

To prepare for the DMV written test, study the Maine Driver's Handbook thoroughly. At the end of each chapter, you’ll find practice questions to help you verify your knowledge of driving laws. You can also find additional practice tests on DMV Premium to further evaluate your preparation.

After getting your learner’s permit:
  • The use of mobile phones or handheld electronic devices is not allowed.
  • Driving is permitted only under the supervision of an adult who is at least 20 years old and has held a driver license for 2 years.
For drivers under 18, additional restrictions apply during the 270 days following the road test:
  • The use of mobile phones or handheld electronic devices is prohibited.
  • Driving alone is not allowed between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m.
  • Transporting passengers, except for siblings, is prohibited unless accompanied by a licensed adult aged at least 20 who has held a valid license for 2 years and is seated beside the driver.

A Maine instruction permit is valid for two years. It is not renewable, but you can obtain a new permit for an additional two years if needed. When the permit expires, you must apply again and take the vision and knowledge test. The driving hours you have accumulated will be retained, allowing you to schedule the road test directly without any waiting period.

ME CDL Inspection Test

Number of questions: 20
Correct answers to pass:16
Passing score:80%
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