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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 Connecticut 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.
All CDL vehicle inspection tests include:
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an in-cab inspection and background check.
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an engine inspection and tire check.
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an engine start and an inspection of the entire vehicle.
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an engine start and in-cab inspection.
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2.
If loose or missing, _______ may cause movement between the frame and fifth wheel assembly.
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electric connectors
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locking pins
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safety chains
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mounting bolts
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3.
When taking the road test, you will be evaluated on your gear usage. You should do all of the following except:
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shift in turns and intersections.
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select a gear that does not rev the engine.
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not grind the gears.
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select a gear that does not lug the engine.
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4.
As part of the external inspection, check that all _______ are present, free of cracks and distortions, and show no signs of looseness.
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spacers
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brake linings
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axle seals
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lug nuts
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5.
When checking the engine compartment:
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the engine should be running.
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wheels should not be chocked.
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you should put the gearshift in neutral.
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the parking brake should be on.
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6.
Pre-trip inspections:
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are optional when the driver is familiar with the vehicle.
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should not be done unless the vehicle has problems that could cause a breakdown.
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should always be done in the same order.
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should not be done when a vehicle inspection report is available.
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7.
Without engine oil:
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the engine can be destroyed rapidly.
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exhaust emissions will be reduced.
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traction will be reduced.
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the ABS won't work.
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8.
You should check that the _____ is solid, clear of objects, and securely bolted to the tractor frame.
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sliding pintle
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catwalk
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kingpin
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apron
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9.
What maintains air pressure in the air brake system?
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Power steering fluid
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Water pump
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Air compressor
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Alternator belt
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10.
Checking the automatic transmission fluid level may require:
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the engine to be running.
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you to pump the brake.
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the vehicle to be parked downhill.
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the 4-way emergency flashers to be activated.
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Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a learner’s permit in Connecticut, you must be at least 16 years old. If you are between 16 and 17 years old, after completing a driver training program and keeping the permit for 120 days (or 180 days if you have taken the training at home with a qualified trainer), you can obtain a driver's license. If you are 18 years of age or older, you are required to hold an adult learner’s permit for a minimum of 90 days before obtaining a class D driver's license.
You can schedule your Connecticut knowledge test online. Select dates and times according to the available choices at various Connecticut DMV offices.
Ensure you bring valid documents or certified copies. Here's what you need:
- Proof of Social Security Number (SSN).
- Two proofs of Connecticut residency dated within 90 days. Examples include a bill from a bank, mortgage company, credit card company, hospital…
- A completed application for Non-Commercial Learner's Permit and/or Driver's License.
For under 18 also:
- Completed Certificate of Parental Consent.
For Non-US born also:
- Proof of Legal Presence in the United States.
The DMV written tests are available in various languages, including Arabic, English, French, Italian, Mandarin, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish. If your primary language is not among these options, you can bring a dictionary. Anyway, you can’t use a translator during the exam.
The DMV written test is based on the Connecticut Driver Manual. Focus on road signs, safe driving practices and road rules. Take our free practice tests to prepare for the exam, or sign up for DMV Premium to unlock more resources and prepare for your permit test faster!
The Connecticut DMV written test consists of 25 multiple-choice questions and is based on the information provided in the manual. Taking numerous practice tests and thoroughly studying the handbook will increase your chances of success.
In Connecticut, you can miss up to 5 questions on the DMV written test. To pass, you need an accuracy rate of 80% or higher, which means correctly answering at least 20 out of the total 25 questions.
Learner permit holders:
- Cannot drive alone. They must be accompanied by a driving instructor or a driver aged 20 or older with a clean driver record for four consecutive years.
- Cannot use cell phones when driving.
For 16 and 17-year-old drivers, the State of Connecticut imposes these restrictions:
- During the first six months after obtaining a driver's license, you are not allowed to have any passengers in the vehicle, except for a licensed driving instructor, a parent/legal guardian with a valid driver's license, or a driver aged 20 or older with a clean driver record for four consecutive years. During the second six months, you can also transport family members.
- You cannot drive from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., except in cases of employment, school, religious activities, or medical emergencies.
The passenger and curfew restrictions do not apply if you are a member of a volunteer fire/ambulance company.
A Connecticut instruction permit remains valid until you either obtain a driver's license or for a period of 2 years from the date of issuance, whichever occurs first. This waiting period ensures you have ample time to gain valuable driving experience and feel confident before the exam.
If you do not pass your DMV written test in Connecticut, you will need to wait 7 days before you can retake it. To reschedule an appointment and retake the exam, you have to pay the required fee again.