CDL VEHICLE INSPECTION TEST DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

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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 District of Columbia 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, make sure that the _____ is in the engaged position and that the safety latch is in place.
drawbar
locking jaw
apron
release arm
2. During the driving test, when approaching a railroad crossing, you should _________ while your vehicle is in the crossing.
change lanes
not change gears
pass slow moving vehicles
None of the above.
3. During the skills test, if you must stop before making the turn, you should:
make sure the turn signal is off.
keep the front wheel aimed straight ahead.
let your vehicle roll.
come to a complete stop after the line to get a better view.
4. Brake drums (or discs) must not have cracks longer than:
one third the width of the friction area.
one half the width of the friction area.
the width of the friction area.
twice the width of the friction area.
5. During the vehicle inspection test, after checking the area around the vehicle for hazards, and before opening the engine compartment door, you should:
check that the parking brakes are set and/or the wheels are chocked.
depress the clutch.
check the level of brake fluid in the reservoir.
remove the battery.
6. Which of the following is a suspension system defect?
Leaking brake fluid
Loose exhaust pipes
Leaking shock absorbers
Leaking power steering cylinder
7. During the vehicle inspection test, you may be asked to:
remove a spare electrical fuse.
check the engine oil level.
change the coolant.
replace the electrical and brake lines.
8. What should you do to test your hydraulic brakes for leaks?
Hold the brake pedal down for five seconds, then pump it three times.
Pump the brake pedal three times, then apply pressure to the pedal and hold for five seconds.
Pump the brake pedal five times, then apply pressure for three seconds.
Pump the brake pedal three times, then apply pressure for 9 seconds.
9. _______ are one of the most common problems found in roadside inspections.
Out-of-adjustment brakes
Brake drums
Slack adjusters
Air hoses connected to the brake chambers
10. Vehicle inspections should be done routinely _______ operating the vehicle.
while
before
by
after
 
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Frequently Asked Questions

To obtain a driver's license in the District of Columbia, teens between 16 to 20 are enrolled in the Gradual Rearing of Adult Drivers (GRAD) Program:

  • If you are at least 16 years old, you can obtain a learner permit.
  • If you are 16 ½ and have held a learner permit for at least 6 months without traffic violations, you are ready for the provisional driver license.
  • If you are 17 years old and have held a provisional driver license for at least 6 months, you can obtain a full license with conditions (until you turn 18).

At 21 years old, you are released from the GRAD program, and you may immediately schedule a road test.

To schedule and take the DMV written test in the District of Columbia, you have three options:

  1. Select a DC DMV Service Center and schedule an appointment in person at takemydrivingtest.com/dc. Choose a location, date, and time for your exam.
  2. Select a Test Proctoring Center.
  3. If you are between 16 and 20 years old you can choose to take the exam online at home. Upon completing the virtual knowledge test, you'll promptly receive your test results. If you pass, simply visit any DC DMV Office within 14 business days to obtain your learner permit.

DC DMV requires you to bring specific documents to verify your eligibility for a class D driver's license: 

  • Proof of identity and age.
  • Proof of lawful presence.
  • Proof of Social Security Number.
  • Two proofs of district residency.
  • Parental Consent Form (if you are under 18 years old).
  • Medical/Eye Form (If you have a particular condition or if you're above 70 years).

Refer to the official DC Document Verification Guide for the complete list of acceptable documents.

The DMV written test in the District of Columbia is available in multiple languages, including English, Amharic, Arabic, Cantonese, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Thai, and Vietnamese. Additionally, audio-assisted tests are provided for individuals who require assistance with reading.

To prepare for the DMV written test, you can refer to the official DC Driver's Handbook. The manual covers various information about road rules, traffic signs, and safe driving practices. Study carefully the different sections and test your knowledge with our free practice tests!

Learner permit:
  • Driving only with an instructor aged 21 or older (no passengers allowed).
  • Specific driving hour restrictions (from 6 am to 9 pm).
  • All occupants must wear seat belts.
  • Mobile phones cannot be used while driving.

Provisional license (16 ½ - 20 years old):
  • Driving alone with a maximum of one passenger aged 21 or older in the front seat, or with siblings/child.
  • Specific time restrictions:
- September to June (Sunday to Thursday from 6 am to 10:59 pm; Friday and Saturday from 6 am to 11:59 pm)
- July and August (from 6 am to 11:59 pm).
  • No driving for compensation (if under 18).
  • All occupants must wear seat belts.

Full license with conditions (under 18):
  • Same restrictions as the provisional license if you are a minor, but you are allowed to transport two passengers under 21.

Driving hour restrictions don't apply if you are accompanied by a holder of a valid driver's license aged 21 or older or for job, school, religious, or sport activities.


The DC instruction permit is valid for a period of two years for U.S. citizens and cannot be renewed. After its expiration, you will need to retake and pass the knowledge test again. During this period, practice to enhance your driving skills before the road test.

If you don't pass the DMV written test, you must wait 72 hours for a second try. If you fail six consecutive attempts, you will have to wait twelve months from the date of your initial test before retaking it. Sign up for DMV Premium and practice with extra tests to maximize the chance of passing!

DC CDL Inspection Test

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