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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 California 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.
During the vehicle inspection, when checking the tires you should:
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ensure that valve caps are missing.
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ensure that the tread is evenly worn.
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check for the minimum tread depth (4/32 on all tires).
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2.
During the external inspection, check that all lug nuts:
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are present.
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show no signs of looseness.
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All of the above.
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3.
To check the signal lights, do the following:
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Turn off all the lights, turn on the right turn signal lights, and turn on the stop lights.
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Turn off all the lights, turn on the stop lights, and turn on the left turn signal lights.
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Turn on all the lights, turn off the stop lights, and turn off the left turn signal lights.
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4.
Exhaust system parts should NOT:
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rub against tires.
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rub against fuel system parts.
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All of the above.
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5.
During the vehicle inspection test, you may be asked to:
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replace the electrical and brake lines.
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check the engine oil level.
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change the coolant.
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6.
During the pre-trip inspection, check that the ________ supply air or hydraulic fluid to the brakes.
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brake hoses or lines
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brake linings
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slack adjusters
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7.
When approaching a vehicle as part of a pre-trip inspection, which of the following could be a sign of trouble?
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Fresh oil under the vehicle
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Inflated tires
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Parking brake is on
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8.
During the vehicle inspection test, as you approach the vehicle you should (among other things):
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look under the vehicle for fuel leaks.
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check the area around the vehicle for low hanging wires.
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All of the above.
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9.
Which of the following must be inspected on every tire?
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Hub oil/grease seals and axle seals.
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Battery.
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Brake chambers.
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10.
Which gauge show that the alternator and/or generator is charging?
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Ammeter/voltmeter
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Engine oil temperature
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All of the above
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Frequently Asked Questions
In California, the minimum age to apply for a DMV test is 15½ years old. If you are at least 17½ years old, you have the option to obtain a permit without completing driver training. When you turn 16, you can obtain a minor's driver license, and the provisional aspect of your class C driver's license comes to an end when you reach 18.
You can schedule an appointment through the official California DMV website to take the DMV written test in person. Alternatively, you can take the exam online during specific hours. You can select this option after filling out your application. If you are under 18, parental or guardian permission is necessary before taking the test. Additionally, this test requires a webcam and cannot be completed on a smartphone/tablet.
You'll need to bring specific documents:
- Application Form. You can fill out this form online or choose the paper version available at any California DMV office. If you're under 18, ensure that your parents/guardians sign the application.
- Proof of identity.
- Full name document.
- Two proofs of residency.
- Social Security Number (SSN).
- If you are under 18, you must also have a Certificate of Completion/Enrollment of Driver Education.
The online version of the DMV written test in California is offered in 35 languages. Although language options are provided, it is advisable to have a basic understanding of English since road signs are always in English.
The DMV written test covers various topics, such as road signs, parallel parking, turning, passing a vehicle, yielding the right of way, etc. Studying the official California Driver’s Handbook is the first step to pass the exam because it contains all of this information. Once you've read it, you can take our free practice tests to test your preparation!
For new drivers in California, there are specific restrictions based on their age and licensing stage. With an instruction permit, you can drive accompanied by a licensed California aged at least 18 (or 25 for minors). After obtaining a provisional license, driving alone is permitted if there are no collisions or traffic violations on your record. In the first 12 months:
- Driving alone is prohibited between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., except for medical emergencies, school or employment activities, or when accompanied by a family member. A written note is required.
- Transporting passengers under 20 years old is not allowed, except when accompanied by a California-licensed parent or guardian, a driver aged 25 or older, or a certified driving instructor.
- Until you turn 18, the use of a cell phone or electronic wireless device is forbidden, except in emergencies when you need to contact law enforcement or the hospital.
At 18, the restrictions end and you may request a duplicate DL without the term "provisional", after paying a fee.
The driver’s license application remains valid for 12 months. Since you are required to hold the permit for 6 months before taking the road test, if your application expires, you must reapply at a DMV office. The time spent with the instruction permit counts towards the six-month requirement. Bring both the expired and current permits on the day of the driving test to demonstrate the accumulated credit.
If you do not pass your written test, you must wait for 7 days, excluding the day you failed the test, before retaking it. You are allowed three attempts to pass the exam. However, if you fail it three times, your application will no longer be valid, and you must start the application process again.