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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 Kansas 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 entering traffic on an expressway during the skills test, you should:
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slow down to a crawl.
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check for traffic.
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avoid using turn signals.
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cut other drivers off if needed.
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2.
What is the most important reason for doing a vehicle inspection?
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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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To avoid fines.
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Liability insurance.
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3.
Which of the following is NOT a key part of the steering system?
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Tie rod
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Drag link
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Steering shaft
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Axle
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4.
Without engine oil:
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the engine can be destroyed rapidly.
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the ABS won't work.
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traction will be reduced.
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exhaust emissions will be reduced.
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5.
During the pre-trip inspection, when starting the engine you should:
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listen for unusual noises.
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check the coolant level in the radiator.
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press the brake pedal.
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fasten your safety belt.
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6.
You pump the brake pedal three times, then hold it down for five seconds, making sure that the pedal does not move. You are checking:
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the air brakes.
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the parking brake.
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the hydraulic brakes.
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the service brake.
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7.
When approaching a vehicle for a pre-trip inspection, you should:
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look under the vehicle for hazards to vehicle movement.
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start the engine and listen for unusual noises.
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look under the vehicle for fuel leaks, fresh oil, coolant or grease.
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make sure the parking brake is on.
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8.
Broken suspension parts can be very dangerous. When inspecting your vehicle for suspension system defects, look for:
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Broken leaves in a multi-leaf spring.
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Spring hangers that allow movement of axle from proper position.
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Damaged air suspension systems.
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All of the above.
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9.
When performing the stop/start maneuver during the skills test, once stopped you should do all of the following, except:
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Activate your right turn signal.
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Apply the parking brake.
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Activate your 4-way emergency flashers.
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Cancel your turn signal.
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10.
__________ are devices designed to absorb and damp jolts and vibrations.
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Valves
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Shock absorbers
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Brakes
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Springs
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Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain an instructional permit in Kansas, the minimum age is 14 years old. Upon reaching the age of 15, individuals who have held an instruction permit for one year become eligible for a restricted driver license. An unrestricted driver license can be obtained from the age of 17.
You can schedule an appointment online at Kansas Department of Revenue’s website. Find the nearest Kansas driver license office and check available dates. Alternatively, you can complete the test online using KnowTo Drive, the official online driver exam platform. If you are under 18, a licensed driver who is at least 18 years of age must supervise you. After passing the test, you have to visit a DMV office to validate your identity and obtain the instruction permit.
You need to present specific documents:
- One proof of lawful presence (such as a birth certificate, passport, certificate of naturalization, etc.). Also, provide evidence of your actual legal name if it has been changed.
- Social Security Card (if you are a foreign student or a foreign employee without work authorization, SSN verification is not required).
- Two proofs of current Kansas residential address (such as a utility bill, bank statement, insurance documents, etc.).
- Certificate of driver education completion (if applicable).
You can print this checklist to ensure you have all the necessary documents.
The online DMV written test is provided in English and Spanish. It is advisable to have a basic understanding of English since traffic signs are always in English. If you have visual or hearing impairments, you can indicate it when scheduling your appointment.
The best way to prepare for the DMV written test is by reading the Kansas Driver's Handbook, which contains information about road signs, pavement markings, and driving rules in Kansas. After studying the manual, test your preparation with our free practice tests!
The DMV written test in Kansas comprises 25 multiple-choice questions based on the information provided in the manual. You'll have one hour to complete the online exam, but it usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes to finish.
You can miss up to 5 questions on the Kansas DMV written test. To pass, you need to answer at least 20 questions correctly, achieving an 80% accuracy rate. Take your time to read each question accurately.
Restrictions in Kansas vary based on age and the type of license or permit:
Instruction permit
- Driving is allowed only with a licensed adult aged at least 21 seated next to you.
- Cell phone use is forbidden, except for emergency calls, for drivers under 17.
Driver license (class C)
- Driving alone is allowed for work, religious, or school activities, or anywhere with a licensed adult aged at least 21. At 16, with a completed 50-hour affidavit, you can drive alone also from 5 am to 9 pm.
- It's forbidden to transport minor passengers (except siblings) if you are 15 years old. At 16, you can have a minor passenger.
- Cell phone use is forbidden, except for emergency calls.
These restrictions no longer apply after holding the driver's license for 6 months, or once you reach 17 years old, provided you have a clean driving record.
A Kansas instructional permit is valid for one year. This ensures you can practice driving before the road test. To advance to a restricted license, hold the permit for 1 year if you are between 14 and 16; after you reach 17, no waiting time applies. If your permit expires and you have to renew it, you must retake and pass the exam.
You are allowed four attempts to pass the DMV written test. If you don't pass on the fourth attempt, you will need to wait for 6 months and pay a re-test fee. To enhance your chances of passing the exam, sign up for DMV Premium, which provides useful resources for studying and numerous practice tests!