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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 Idaho 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 checking the engine compartment in a vehicle inspection, you should check all of the following except:
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Engine oil level
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Coolant level in radiator
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Spring hangers
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2.
During the pre-trip inspection, belts should:
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be checked for tightness and excessive wear.
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not be inspected.
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checked for oil pressure.
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3.
Which of the following is not part of the air brake system?
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Air compressor
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Air filter
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Air storage tanks
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4.
What is the most important reason for doing a vehicle inspection?
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To avoid fines.
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Safety for yourself and for other road users.
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It's required by law.
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5.
When checking the engine compartment in a vehicle inspection, you should check all of the following except:
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Windshield washer fluid level
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Engine oil level
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Shock absorbers
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6.
Which of the following is NOT a key part of the steering system?
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Axle
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Steering shaft
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Drag link
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7.
Name some things you should check on the FRONT of your vehicle during your pre-trip inspection.
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U-Bolts, anchor plate and bellows
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Low beams, high beams, four-way flashers, and turn signals
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Oil, transmission, air compressor, and radiator
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8.
During the vehicle inspection test, you may be asked to:
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check the engine oil level.
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change the coolant.
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replace the electrical and brake lines.
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9.
How can you check slack adjusters?
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Use gloves and pull hard on each slack adjuster that you can reach.
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Turn the electrical power on and step on and off the brake pedal.
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Check that the spring brakes come on automatically.
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10.
Which of the following is a suspension system defect?
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Loose exhaust pipes
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Leaking brake fluid
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Leaking shock absorbers
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Frequently Asked Questions
If you are between 14½ and under 17 years old you must follow the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program. You can apply for a supervised instruction permit and complete an approved driver training program. After 6 months of violation-free supervised driving, you can apply for a restricted driver’s license (it will be restricted until your 18th birthday).
If you are 17 or older you can apply for a class D instruction permit and after six months of supervised driving, you can obtain a class D driver’s license.
To schedule the DMV written test in Idaho, you can visit your county Sheriff’s DMV office in person. Find the Idaho DMV office nearest to you and check its business hours.
You are required to bring the following documents:
- Proof of identity and age.
- Photo ID.
- Proof of Idaho residency.
- Social Security Card.
- Proof of US citizenship or legal presence.
- Driver training completion certificate (for applicants under 17).
- Liability Signer (for those under 18, a parent or guardian must sign consent for licensing).
- Proof of school enrollment (for those under 18).
Additionally, if applicable:
- Foreign driver’s license.
- Medical certification (if you have a medical condition that may affect your ability to drive).
Use the tool provided by the Idaho Transportation Department to create a checklist of the necessary documents.
The DMV written test in Idaho is offered in various languages, including English, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, French, Korean, Russian, Servo-Croatian, Spanish, Vietnamese and ASL (American Sign Language). 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 Idaho Driver’s Handbook is the first step to prepare for the exam because it contains all of this information. Once you've read it, you can take our free practice tests!
The Idaho DMV written test consists of 40 questions and is based on the information provided in the manual. Taking numerous practice tests and thoroughly reading the handbook will increase your chances of success.
You are allowed to miss up to 6 questions, with a minimum accuracy rate of 85%. Using any written, audio, or electronic aid is forbidden.
New drivers in Idaho are subject to specific restrictions:
- If you are younger than 16, you can drive only during daylight hours, except when accompanied by a licensed driver aged at least 21, who must be seated beside you. Additionally, you cannot transport any other passengers.
- If you are under 17, during the first six months from the date the license was issued, you can only transport one passenger under 17 or family members.
- If you are under 21, you cannot drive after drinking any amount of alcohol (Zero Tolerance law).
An Idaho instruction permit remains valid for 180 days after successfully completing a driver training program and the GDL Program. You can renew the permit once without retaking the knowledge test, as long as you took it within the past 12 months.
If you fail your DMV written test, you must wait three days to retest and pay another application fee. Sign up for DMV Premium and practice with extra tests to maximize the chance of passing!